International Studies

MA/MS in International and Regional Studies*

The MA/MS in International and Regional Studies will offer Master’s students the opportunity to focus on international studies or on a specific world region, including Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Europe, Central Eurasia, the Middle East, or East Asia.

Students will have some common course requirements pertaining to foundational concepts, methods, and a capstone research project. They will otherwise be able to focus within their preferred international or regional studies tracks. They will develop a well-rounded foundation in global and regional knowledge and skills, preparing them for a range of internationally oriented careers.

This exciting degree brings together the Hamilton Lugar School’s strengths in international and area studies. It builds on our successful MA/MS in International Studies and is our primary new home for Master’s-level training in area studies. The degree gives students access to our excellent array of courses in international studies and to all the outstanding course options previously offered through our stand-alone MA programs in African Studies, Latin American and Caribbean Studies, European Studies, Central Eurasian Studies, Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures, Egyptology, and East Asian Studies.

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Two degree options

We will offer two Master’s degree programs in International and Regional Studies—an MA and an MS. There is a core set of requirements for both degrees, including international and regional studies courses, language training, and the development of a regional/area focus.

While there are similarities between the two degrees, the MS will focus on using data to address issues in international and regional studies. Examples include the economics of development or quantitative approaches to political analysis. Students learn quantitative methods and analysis and take at least one graduate-level economics course. In addition, an international experience—such as an internationally focused internship or practicum—will be a requirement of the MS degree.

The MA/MS in International and Regional Studies will prepare students for a wide range of internationally oriented careers in academia, the private sector, and in public institutions or NGOs around the world.

Deadlines

Application Deadline for Fall 2026 (domestic applications)

January 1, 2026

Application Deadline for Fall 2026 (international applications)

December 1, 2025

*The revised name of this degree remains subject to approval.

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