Online Masters in
International Relations

An online Master’s in International Relations degree is all about understanding history, politics, anthropology, current events and applying this knowledge in solving real-world problems in business, politics, and humanitarian sectors. Typically, this Master’s Degree gives students the skills they need to maintain good diplomatic relations with other countries and avoid international conflicts while fostering cross-border business ties and promoting international trade.

Additionally, graduates of a Master’s in International Relations will be adept at giving recommendations on public policy or framing policy, based on a firm understanding of international politics, global security, and governance. From a wide range of professions in areas such as diplomacy, foreign service, federal civil service, international business, international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international aid and development, or journalism, an online Master’s in International Relations opens up a host of career possibilities for those who enjoy traveling, politics, arbitration, and negotiation.

The Master’s in International Relations is designed for working students or intend to work in fields such as diplomacy, international development, international business, and global peace.

Masters in International Relations Degree Types

There are largely three types of degrees students can choose from for an online Master’s in International Relations – a Master of Arts or MA International Relations, a Master of Science or MS in International Relations, or a Master of Business Administration or online MBA International Relations. While all the three-degree types are based on International Relations, each degree has its unique flavor and approach to teach the subject.

International Relations vs International Affairs vs International Studies

Some schools offer degrees not only in International Relations but also in International Affairs and International Studies. So, what is the difference between an online Master’s in International Relations vs. a Master’s in International Affairs vs. an International Studies Master’s?

1. International Relations
   focuses on law, politics, and economics, looks at how they connect globally, and how nations interact with them independently and collectively.
2. International Studies
   focuses on other countries’ cultural and social dimensions and how economic and political problems impact their people.
3. International Affairs
   programs tend to be structured similarly to International Relations programs. Still, the difference is that International Affairs concentrates more on national security and international organizations and current events on a global level.

Specializations in Masters in International Relations Programs

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Online Masters in International Relations Programs

Note: Curriculum and courses can vary by region, college, and program. Therefore, it is important to research each program’s curriculum to find one that relates to the individual’s career goals.

In addition to learning the fundamentals of International Relations, graduates of a Master’s in International Relations will exhibit the following skills:

• Effective written and oral communication.
• The ability to recommend policy and also make policy.
• A deeper understanding of economic principles, international trade and laws, developing markets, and the global market.
• The ability to analyze various political structures, world events, foreign policy, and their influence on International Relations.
• Wider awareness of cultures, communities, and social fabrics of various nations that are becoming increasingly interconnected.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply theory and practice and work in various areas such as international business, foreign service, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), humanitarian sectors, media, journalism, etc.
• Exhibit knowledge of how humans communicate in a global market and create effective ways of cross-border communication.

Accreditation for Online Masters in International Relations Programs

As with all Master’s degrees, Accreditation for an online Master’s in International Relations is an absolute requirement for the degree to be of value and considered by the job market. Accreditation agencies lay down standards for schools to conform to and ensure that these standards are being met and maintained throughout. While some schools may have specifically accredited programs (programmatic), most schools are regionally accredited, which is just as good an option. Some of the regional accreditation bodies in the United States are:

1. New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
2. Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS)
3. Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
4. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC)
5. Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
6. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission

Students are advised to always look for accredited colleges or programs while applying for an Online Masters in International Relations. More information on Accreditation is available in our Accreditation Guide.

Timeline for graduation from Online Masters in International Relations Programs

Most online Master’s in International Relations programs require about 36 credit hours or about 18 to 24 months to complete the program. Part-time programs will require longer durations, generally taking anywhere from 24 months to 48 months to complete. In some cases, and depending on the type of Master’s program (MA, MS, or MBA), additional internship, fieldwork, or Thesis may add to the duration of the degree.

Online Masters in International Relations Programs Admission Requirements

The Master’s in International Relations eligibility criteria is rather straightforward. Along with the customary application form and requisite application fee, most colleges require students to submit:

• Official Academic Transcripts
• At least 2 Letters of Recommendation
• A Resume
• A Personal Statement
• Proof of proficiency in English (if necessary)

While a Standardized Test Score of GRE is not usually mandated, some colleges require a GRE score for applicants whose cumulative undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) is below 3.0.

Additionally, students must have completed a Bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent). Having some proficiency in at least one language other than English and some international experience and/or knowledge of other cultures is highly recommended.

Since admission criteria vary by college and program, it is best to check with the college’s admissions office being applied to or read the program guide for specific and fuller information on admission requirements unique to the program.

International Relations Master’s No GRE programs have increasingly gained popularity, especially with students who want to complete their studies faster and commence working. Fortunately, most Master’s in International Relations programs do not require a Standardized Test Score, such as those of the GRE or GMAT, to be submitted for admission. However, it is not uncommon for colleges to ask for a GRE score, should the student’s cumulative undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) be less than 3.0.

For students who desire to finish up with their studies as fast as possible and hurl themselves into a career, one-year International Relations Master’s programs are best to pursue. While, increasingly, some colleges have introduced accelerated programs or 1-year programs that require full-time participation along with studies in the summer, these programs are in certain International Relations concentrations.  Most such programs also require students to have at least 7 to 8 years of prior work experience. For example, the School of International Service offers a 1-year Master’s in International Service online. Another example is the School of Diplomacy and International Relations (Seton Hall University) that offers an online Executive Master of Science in International Affairs, which can be completed in 1 year.