International Affairs

Named among the top international affairs programs by the Foreign Policy Association, our graduate programs in International Affairs are distinctive in the tradition of The New School for Social Research: critical, engaged, and truly global. NSSR offers an exciting intellectual atmosphere that emphasizes creative research based in real-world engagement and application. As part of a university that houses the #1 design school in the United States, NSSR opens up pathways for interdisciplinary collaboration with world-class faculty and students from across The New School and in our centers, institutes, and labs.

Our Approach

Throughout your course of study as a graduate student, you learn to apply conceptual frameworks that go beyond mainstream paradigms to analyze contemporary social issues and offer alternative theories. These frameworks reflect diverse views of the West and East, the North and South, and plural theoretical traditions such as post-Westphalian IR, the Human Rights approach to development, and critical security studies. You benefit from multiple opportunities to participate in field-based learning and career exploration throughout your studies, and you complete your degree by undertaking a capstone project, which can take the form of a research thesis or portfolio or a practicum project. 

Located at the heart of the global capital of international diplomacy, business, and social activism, The New School contributes to and fosters public debates about urgent social and political issues, often with distinguished invited speakers. The city offers opportunities for internships in diverse fields and organizations, allowing students to explore career options. Integrate theory, policy, and practice through field-based learning in practicum projects, UN Summer Study, and our one-of-a-kind International Field Program.