MA in International Affairs

In our complex world where challenges to peace are multiplying, there is a crucial need for analytical thinkers able to address transnational issues in a creative and constructive fashion. The MA in International Affairs allows you to take full advantage of Paris’s central role in international economics, politics and social issues. Throughout the pursuit of your degree, you will have the opportunity to supplement the rigorous coursework and professional modules with internships, fieldwork for thesis research and case study methods for thesis production.

Project-based learning

While providing a rigorous and well-rounded understanding of contemporary international affairs the course will push you to take theory beyond the classroom. Throughout your studies, you will have opportunities to work alongside visiting professionals to advance your skills and networks through intense three-day workshops that provide expertise in humanitarian assistance, diplomacy, non-profit management, negotiation, legal problem solving, health assessment in conflict zones, micro-credit management and mediation.

New and Experienced Thinking

We welcome recent graduates from educational institutions across the world – having earned the equivalent of a BA degree in International Affairs or a closely related field – as well as current professionals already working in the worlds of international institutions, NGOs and policymaking.

International Partnerships

As part of the program, you will engage with the world at large through the Ecole de Guerre practicum and cultural trips offered by other programs, such as those in India, Fez and Cambodia. This type of on-site learning or fieldwork encourages you to interact with a professional environment – legal, humanitarian, diplomatic, civil society – and often within the context of another language and culture.

Program Requirements

As a student of the MA in International Affairs you will engage with discipline-specific theoretical constructs through modules designed to enhance critical thinking, as well as graduate-level research and writing capacities.

The program features core and elective courses, allowing you to focus on various fields of practice. We cover a rich scope of content from law to international relations and diplomacy and from conflict resolution to human rights, including:

Core Courses

Explore the full Program Requirements

Engaged and analytical problem-solvers

This degree will prepare you to be an informed, proactive participant in developing new ideas for the promotion of peace and social justice at community, national, and international levels.

As a student of the MA in International Affairs you will:

• Build an in-depth understanding of a cosmopolitan canon of academic and expert publications in international affairs, international law, public policy, transnational affairs, conflict resolution and civil society development

• Develop clear analytical thinking as demonstrated by contributions to in-class discussions and argumentation as developed in written work including in the exploration of causality in your Master's thesis

• Demonstrate initiative in selecting a range of rigorous academic sources for oral and written work and in the pursuit of original research for your Masters thesis

• Gain a mastery of qualitative methodology (especially case study methods) and a basic understanding of statistical methods

Internships

During the course of your study, you are encouraged to build on your education at AUP by applying gained knowledge and skills. An internship provides you with the crucial connection between theoretical knowledge and the real world experience that can ultimately kick start your professional career.

In the past our students have undertaken placements with companies that include:

Your Classmates

Experience the Program

Learning methods focus on conventional techniques as well as critical management studies and approaches from other academic disciplines. Courses combine lectures, seminar discussion, case-method and student-directed projects. Within this context, a special emphasis is put on professional skills development and career development. Students also have the opportunity to collaborate with each other and program faculty for research projects and specialized directed study courses.

Find out more about applying to AUP