Customized Modules
The MS program modules draw from programs across The New School in fields such as social research, design, and media. Students customize their course of study by choosing one of the Subject Modules, through which students gain in-depth, substantive knowledge of a particular thematic area of professional interest. They also choose one of the Critical Tools and Analysis Modules to develop specific applied skills in preparation for professional careers.
There are dozens of potential module combinations. Examples of strategic pairings, just to name a few, include:
- Humanitarianism + Geographic Information Systems
- Global Advocacy + Media Production
- Cities and Sustainable Development + Community and Engagement and Participation
- Development Policy + Economic Analysis
You can also design your own modules in consultation with academic advisors.
Curriculum
The MS program combines two core courses and two module selections (spanning five classes) with a range of electives and opportunities for social research and hands-on experience.
Core Courses
All MS students take two required core courses that provide a critical and historical introduction to key concepts in international affairs. Global Flows is an analysis of globalization from the colonial era through the present. Theories, Histories, and
Practices of Development examines basic concepts, practices, and issues of development.
Modules
Each student selects one module from each of the two categories: one Subject Module (9 credits) and one Critical Tools and Analysis Module (6 credits).
International Field Program and UN Summer Study
Students can earn up to six credits toward their MS through these experiential-learning programs:
The International Field Program provides field experience with a local or international organization in another country under academic supervision. Past sites have included Cuba, India, Kosovo, China,
Ghana, Senegal, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Argentina, Hong Kong, Colombia, Brazil, Lebanon, Turkey, and Nepal. New sites are frequently developed.
The United Nations Summer Study offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in consultancy work with the UN system through a summer intensive curriculum based in New York City.
Electives
International Affairs offers a selection of elective courses that range from general surveys to advanced research seminars to practice-oriented courses. MS students can take electives offered by International Affairs or by other New School graduate programs
in fields such as design, social research, media, and many others.
Capstone Project
All MS students must complete a capstone project — either a thesis, a research portfolio, a practicum, or a practice-based portfolio. Students choose their final project in consultation with their advisor after they have completed 18 credits.
Graduate Minors
You can also use your elective courses to complete one of the university's graduate minors, which provide a structured, accessible way to complement your primary course of study with fresh ways of thinking. Your graduate
minor is officially recorded on your transcript.