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International Affairs, M.A.

The M.A. International Affairs degree opens doors to career opportunities in an increasingly globalized world — not only in cities abroad but also right here in Middle Tennessee. Our graduates enjoy professional positions in the U.S. government and military, in business and industry, in higher education, and in the nonprofit sector, and they live in far-flung cities like London, Geneva, and Riyadh, as well as in our own backyard, in places like Huntsville, Clarksville, and Nashville.

About The M.A. International Affairs Degree Program:

Within Tennessee, MTSU's M.A. in International Affairs is the only degree program of its kind. Students in this interdisciplinary program develop applicable skills as well as in-depth knowledge of the theory and practice of international affairs. Within this subject area, students may specialize their studies by choosing an emphasis in:

• international development, human security, and globalization
• international security & peace studies
• area studies, with a country-specific or regional focus (examples: China, Russia, Africa, Middle East)
• global justice, human rights, and civil advocacy

International Affairs Degree Outcomes:

Highly qualified faculty with expertise in these specialized areas guide student learning and support degree candidates who seek to advance their careers. The program also features a practicum in which students gain on-the-job experience, build their networks, and earn academic credit. Our interns have worked for:

• government bodies like the State Department and NASA
• law enforcement entities including the FBI and TBI
• international organizations like the United Nations
• nonprofits including the American Red Cross, Free For Life International, and the Tennessee World Affairs Council
• think tanks like the Cato Institute
• industry-leading companies like Apple and SpaceX

MTSU's M.A. in International Affairs program emphasizes applied learning, collaborative teamwork, and practical skills useful in many different career tracks. All majors are accepted, and the program can be completed in as little as three semesters. While students are encouraged to develop their language skills, no foreign language study is required for the degree.

International Students:

International students are welcome. Classroom exercises are enhanced by the rich diversity of students from Tennessee, the southeastern United States, and around the world, including but not limited to Angola, Bangladesh, and Brazil.