In an increasingly interconnected world, American University’s International Relations Online programs allow you the opportunity to earn your master’s degree from anywhere. With our online master’s degree programs, you can build the specialized expertise, policy knowledge, and communications skill set to start creating a meaningful difference in your community and beyond.
As a student, you will enhance your expertise in international relations and foreign affairs and have opportunities to build a rich network of connections without sacrificing your responsibilities at home. GRE scores are not required to apply.
As a graduate of our program, you will join an international alumni network that is making change happen around the world.
Students enrolled in the Master of Arts in International Relations program benefit from an innovative, online learning platform that combines live classes hosted via webcam, interactive course work, and collaborative group exercises.
The platform allows for flexibility while receiving a world-class education at American University’s School of International Service (SIS), from anywhere in the world.
American University’s School of International Service seeks applicants for all of its online International Relations programs who are dedicated to improving the world through international relations, service, and innovation.
Applicants will need to submit the following:
International Relations Online offers a Master of International Relations degree that requires 36–39 credit hours to complete and prepares students with essential knowledge and skills for understanding international relations. Through our in-depth online learning experience, students will be introduced to topics ranging from international economics to intercultural communication—preparing young professionals to make a global impact.
Details can be found on our Program Curriculum page.
Whether your aspirations are in global security, international development, foreign policy, national security, or conflict resolution, you will graduate ready to take on positions in a range of settings—think tanks, nonprofits, consulting firms, or government agencies—and promote peace worldwide.
Global Service
Professionals in global security work toward keeping volatile or unstable nations safe from outside threat. This might include mediating conflict, tracking threats, and proposing new policies and safety measures.
USA Foreign Policy & National Security
Professionals in this field typically focus on creating and implementing foreign policy, defense, intelligence, and public diplomacy to promote national security.
International Development
Working in international development means helping to improve—and sustain—the economic development and quality of life in an area. This includes alleviating poverty and illiteracy, elevating life expectancy, and heightening Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita.
Intl’ Negotiation & Conflict Resolution
Professionals in this field work to understand, mitigate, and resolve conflict on an international level.
Course work in the MAIR program will provide students with the following competencies:
Theory and Practice
Students will be able to demonstrate writing, presentation, and thinking skills in the analysis of international relations as well as key quantitative research methods. They will also analyze policy to evaluate the effectiveness of programs.
Research and Analysis
Students will be able to demonstrate writing, presentation, and thinking skills in the analysis of international relations as well as key quantitative research methods. They will also analyze policy to evaluate the effectiveness of programs.
Professional Intercultural Skills
Students will acquire the intercultural skills to analyze and interpret conflicts that involve people of different cultures; to understand the process of intercultural negotiation and adaptation; and to appreciate how culturally determined values, beliefs, and worldviews shape behavior at all levels.
Specialized Expertise
Students will develop proficiency in a subject area beyond foundational knowledge through in-depth study of a specialized subfield.
Request information to learn more about International Relations Online or contact Admissions at 855-306-2847
We’re especially proud of our faculty—prominent scholars and real-world professionals at the top of their fields who value mentoring students as much as they value excellence in the classroom. Through their teaching, scholarly achievements and first-hand experience, you’ll gain a special entry point to international relations.
Visit our Program Faculty page to learn more about our faculty
When you enroll in International Relations Online, you will immediately gain access to a vast network of alumni who are professionals spanning the globe. Graduates of both International Relations Online and the School of International Service have produced positive outcomes throughout the international community, and the alumni network remain active in helping students find outlets to make an impact on communities around the world.
American University is dedicated to supporting military service members, veterans, and their families.
As an online student of the MA in International Relations program, you can transform your military experience and leadership skills into new career possibilities as you earn your degree, regardless of where you live or are stationed.
We support a full range of military education benefits such as:
Additionally, if you’ve served in any branch of the U.S. military on active duty within the past three years, you’re eligible for an application fee waiver. We accept transfer credits from military coursework, have a dedicated Office of Veterans Services to help connect you to benefits, and maintain an active Veterans Services Support Network.
We welcome you to learn more about our military benefits and how to apply for them.
Disclaimer: GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website: Education and Training Home (va.gov)
Find out more about the online Master of Arts in International Relations program today.
