GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of International Studies (MIS)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The Master of International Studies (MIS) program at the Elliott School is designed for students and recent alumni from international partner institutions. This one-year program offers a unique opportunity to study in Washington, D.C., enhancing your understanding of global and regional issues. The program equips you with the knowledge and skills to communicate, negotiate, and lead in a multicultural environment, preparing you for diverse careers in diplomacy, public service, international organizations, and multinational corporations. Whether your interests lie in global trade, international development, public health, security, or other critical global areas, the MIS program provides an advanced academic experience building upon your previous master's level coursework.
Curriculum
The MIS curriculum requires a minimum of 24 credits, comprising core courses, a specialization, and a capstone experience. Students must complete a 9-12 credit core field in international affairs, history, and economics. A 12-credit specialization allows students to focus on a specific global issue or region. A 4-credit capstone sequence, consisting of a workshop and seminar, is also required.
- Year 1
- International Affairs CornerstoneIAFF 6101
- History and Its Uses in International AffairsHIST 6030
- Survey of International EconomicsECON 6280
- Survey of International Trade Theory and PolicyECON 6283
- Survey of International Macroeconomics and Finance Theory and PolicyECON 6284
- Capstone WorkshopIAFF 6898
- Capstone CourseIAFF 6899
Careers
The MIS program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the international arena. The program's location in Washington, D.C., offers invaluable opportunities for professional and cultural development. Graduates are well-suited for roles in diplomacy, public service, and international or multinational organizations.
- Diplomats
- Public service professionals
- International organization staff
- Multinational organization staff
Frequently asked questions
- What are the eligibility requirements for the Master of International Studies program?
- Applicants must be current students or recent alumni (within three years) of an Elliott School International Partner institution. You also need to have completed upper-intermediate, college-level coursework in a modern foreign language and introductory microeconomics and macroeconomics.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements?
- For IELTS, a score of 7.0 overall with no band below 6.0 is required, or 6.5 for exemption from EAP courses. For TOEFL iBT, 100 is required, or 105 for exemption. For PTE, 68 is required, or 72 for exemption.
- How do I apply to the Master of International Studies program?
- You need to submit an online application with unofficial transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resumé/CV, and a statement of purpose. English proficiency test scores are also required if applicable.
- When are the application deadlines for the Master of International Studies program?
- The fellowship and application deadline for Fall intake is January 7. For Spring intake, the deadline is October 1. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis after these deadlines but without fellowship consideration.
- What is the tuition and fee information for international students?
- International students should refer to the university's official tuition rates for the current academic year, as specific program fees may apply. Estimated living costs are not provided.
- What career opportunities are available for graduates of the Master of International Studies program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in diplomacy, public service, and international or multinational organizations. The program's location in Washington, D.C. provides valuable professional and cultural development opportunities.
Entry requirements
Current enrollment or recent alumni statusMust be currently enrolled in or a recent alumnus (within three years) of a Master's program at one of the Elliott School's International Exchange Partner institutions.
Foreign Language CourseworkUpper-intermediate, college-level coursework (4 semesters) in a modern foreign language is required at the time of application. Native English speakers should explain their language experience in the application.
Economics CourseworkPrerequisite in introductory microeconomics and introductory macroeconomics (or Principles of Economics). If not met, students may need to complete equivalent courses before enrollment, particularly for Spring applicants.
IELTS7.0 overall, with no band score below 6.0 (eligible for admission & requires EAP courses) OR 7.0 overall, with no band score below 6.5 (eligible for admission & exempt from EAP courses)
TOEFL (internet-based)100 (eligible for admission & requires EAP courses) OR 105 (eligible for admission & exempt from EAP courses)
PTE68 (eligible for admission & requires EAP courses) OR 72 (eligible for admission & exempt from EAP courses)
GRE and GMAT scores are not accepted. Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation (one academic, one professional), transcripts from all previously attended institutions (with certified English translations if applicable), a resumé/CV, and a statement of purpose (approximately 500 words) addressing study purpose, career objectives, and how GW will aid in achieving them, or discussing an international issue to address professionally. Official transcripts are required only for admitted students who enroll. International applicants requiring an I-20 or DS-2019 may have earlier deadlines. Contact esiagrad@gwu.edu for details.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the university's official tuition rates for the current academic year. Specific program fees may apply.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the university's official tuition rates for the current academic year. Specific program fees may apply.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided in the source documents.
The provided 'Fees Page' discusses tuition remission benefits for GW employees and their dependents, which is not applicable to general international student tuition fees.
How to apply
1. Review EligibilityEnsure you meet the prerequisite of being a current student or recent alumnus (within 3 years) of an Elliott School International Partner institution. Verify you have completed the required foreign language and economics coursework.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended, two letters of recommendation (one academic, one professional), a resumé or CV, and write a statement of purpose (approx. 500 words). If academic records are not in English, provide certified English translations.
3. Submit English Proficiency Test ScoresIf required, submit official IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores to GW (institution code 5246 for TOEFL). Ensure scores meet the minimum requirements for admission.
4. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit your complete application and all supporting documents through the university's online application portal by the specified deadline. Note that applications are accepted on a rolling basis after fellowship deadlines, but students will not be considered for fellowships.
5. Submit Official DocumentsIf offered admission, you will need to submit official transcripts and official English language test scores.
Accreditation
The Elliott School of International Affairs is accredited by The George Washington University.
Frequently asked questions
What are the eligibility requirements for the Master of International Studies program?
+
Applicants must be current students or recent alumni (within three years) of an Elliott School International Partner institution. You also need to have completed upper-intermediate, college-level coursework in a modern foreign language and introductory microeconomics and macroeconomics.
What are the English language proficiency requirements?
+
For IELTS, a score of 7.0 overall with no band below 6.0 is required, or 6.5 for exemption from EAP courses. For TOEFL iBT, 100 is required, or 105 for exemption. For PTE, 68 is required, or 72 for exemption.
How do I apply to the Master of International Studies program?
+
You need to submit an online application with unofficial transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resumé/CV, and a statement of purpose. English proficiency test scores are also required if applicable.
When are the application deadlines for the Master of International Studies program?
+
The fellowship and application deadline for Fall intake is January 7. For Spring intake, the deadline is October 1. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis after these deadlines but without fellowship consideration.
What is the tuition and fee information for international students?
+
International students should refer to the university's official tuition rates for the current academic year, as specific program fees may apply. Estimated living costs are not provided.
What career opportunities are available for graduates of the Master of International Studies program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in diplomacy, public service, and international or multinational organizations. The program's location in Washington, D.C. provides valuable professional and cultural development opportunities.