Top International Relations Programs

Georgetown University’s ranking as the best school offering international relations (IR) programs in the United States, as reported in Foreign Policy magazine’s March/April 2009 issue, was a significant recognition for its prestigious School of Foreign Service (SFS). The university was lauded for its commitment to preparing students for careers in global policy and diplomacy, with a curriculum that combines academic rigor with real-world applications. Georgetown has long been considered a hub for international affairs education, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to tackle some of the most pressing global challenges.

Georgetown’s place at the top of the 2009 Foreign Policy rankings was a reflection of its comprehensive approach to international relations education. The university’s School of Foreign Service, founded in 1919, offers a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service (BSFS) degree that prepares undergraduates for careers in foreign service, international business, or policy analysis. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to global issues, offering courses in history, economics, politics, and international law, while also providing opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships and study abroad programs. This combination of academic rigor and real-world exposure helps students develop a deep understanding of the complexities of international relations, preparing them to navigate the interconnected world of diplomacy, development, and security.

The SFS also offers six different master’s degree programs, including the highly regarded Master of Science in Foreign Service (MSFS) program. This graduate program is designed for professionals looking to deepen their expertise in international affairs, offering specializations in areas such as security studies, international development, and diplomatic history. The MSFS program is known for its faculty, which includes former diplomats, international policy experts, and scholars of global governance, ensuring that students receive an education that is both academically rigorous and grounded in the realities of international relations. Additionally, Georgetown offers specialized master’s programs in security and regional studies, further demonstrating its commitment to offering students tailored pathways to success in a variety of international careers.

Johns Hopkins University, ranked second in the survey, is another powerhouse in the field of international relations education. Its Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) has long been regarded as one of the best graduate schools for international relations, thanks to its rigorous academic programs and its focus on preparing students for leadership roles in the global arena. SAIS offers three primary degree programs: the Master of Arts (M.A.) in International Relations, the Master of International Public Policy (M.I.P.P.), and the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in International Relations. The M.A. program at SAIS is one of the most prestigious in the country, offering a broad curriculum that covers topics such as international economics, security studies, and international law. The M.I.P.P. program, which is designed for mid-career professionals, provides students with a strong foundation in policy analysis and public administration, while the Ph.D. program trains students to become scholars of international relations, preparing them for careers in academia or think tanks.

One of the standout features of SAIS is its global network of alumni and partnerships with international organizations, governments, and the private sector. Students at SAIS have opportunities to engage with professionals and policymakers from around the world, building relationships that can last a lifetime. The school’s focus on providing students with access to the international policy community is a key factor that sets it apart from other programs. With campuses in Washington, D.C., Bologna, Italy, and Nanjing, China, SAIS offers a truly global perspective on international relations, allowing students to gain insights into the policies and practices of different regions.

Harvard University, ranked third in the Foreign Policy survey, also has a long-standing reputation for excellence in international relations education. Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government offers a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in International Development, which is designed for students looking to pursue careers in development policy and practice. The program combines courses in quantitative methods, the theory and history of development, and governance, with an emphasis on policy analysis and real-world applications. Harvard’s Kennedy School is renowned for its faculty, which includes leading scholars and practitioners in international relations, as well as its extensive network of alumni working in the public and private sectors around the world. Students in the MPA program at Harvard have access to a wealth of resources, including internships, fellowships, and a robust career services office that helps graduates secure positions in international organizations, governments, and NGOs.

Harvard’s program is particularly known for its emphasis on policy and practice, and it attracts students who are interested in shaping the future of global governance. With its combination of theoretical and practical training, the Kennedy School offers students a comprehensive understanding of the political, economic, and social forces that shape international relations, preparing them for leadership roles in global institutions. The university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary study, allowing students to take courses from other schools within Harvard, also ensures that students have a well-rounded education that draws from fields such as economics, law, and public health.

Tufts University, ranked fourth in the Foreign Policy survey, is home to the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, which offers graduate programs in international relations, law, and business. The Fletcher School is known for its interdisciplinary approach to international affairs, offering students the opportunity to pursue degrees such as the Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy (MALD), the Master of International Business (MIB), and the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in International Relations. The Fletcher School is unique in its emphasis on integrating law, diplomacy, and business, allowing students to develop a diverse set of skills that are valuable in international careers. The MALD program, for example, offers students the flexibility to tailor their studies to specific interests, whether in areas such as human rights, conflict resolution, or global business.

Tufts’ location in the Boston area provides students with access to a rich network of international organizations, NGOs, and government agencies, giving them ample opportunities for internships, research projects, and networking. The Fletcher School’s faculty includes experts in international law, political science, economics, and diplomacy, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education in international relations that is grounded in the latest research and practical experience.

Columbia University, ranked fifth in the survey, offers graduate programs in international affairs through its School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA). SIPA is known for its diverse student body and its focus on providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to address global challenges such as climate change, conflict, and economic inequality. SIPA offers programs such as the Master of International Affairs (MIA), the Master of Public Administration (MPA), and a Ph.D. in Sustainable Development. The school also offers specialized programs in Economic Policy Management, Environmental Science and Policy, and Development Practice, reflecting the growing importance of interdisciplinary approaches to international relations. Columbia’s location in New York City, a global hub for finance, diplomacy, and international organizations, provides students with unique opportunities to engage with leading practitioners and policymakers from around the world.

The diverse range of programs offered at SIPA allows students to pursue careers in a variety of sectors, including government, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector. SIPA’s emphasis on practical experience, combined with its strong academic foundation, prepares students to become leaders in the field of international relations. Like the other top schools in the survey, SIPA offers students access to a robust alumni network, which provides valuable connections and career opportunities in the field of global policy.

In conclusion, Georgetown University’s position as the top-ranked institution for international relations programs is a testament to its longstanding commitment to excellence in the field. The university’s School of Foreign Service offers a comprehensive education in international affairs, providing students with the academic foundation and practical experience needed to pursue successful careers in global policy. While Georgetown is certainly a leader in international relations education, other schools such as Johns Hopkins University, Harvard University, Tufts University, and Columbia University also offer world-class programs that prepare students for leadership roles in international organizations, governments, and the private sector. These institutions represent the best of what American higher education has to offer in the field of international relations, providing students with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to make a lasting impact on the world stage.