Online Master of Arts in International Relations: Shaping Global Futures
USIU-Africa’s online Master of Arts in International Relations program provides a comprehensive education in global affairs, equipping you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate the complexities of the international system. Our curriculum integrates African and international perspectives, addressing key issues such as development, peace and conflict, foreign policy, and diplomacy.
Program Highlights: Global Expertise, Practical Skills, and Career Advancement
A Globally Focused Curriculum
Our program offers a unique blend of theoretical depth and practical application. You’ll explore key concepts and theories in international relations while developing the analytical and problem-solving skills essential for navigating global challenges.
Addressing Critical Global Issues
We address pressing global issues, including development, peace and conflict resolution, and foreign policy and diplomacy, providing you with a robust understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the international community.
Developing Essential Skills for International Careers
The program cultivates essential skills, including:
- Critical analysis and evaluation of international relations theories and concepts.
- Empirical research and evidence-based policy formulation.
- Design and implementation of effective intervention strategies for national and international issues.
- Application of an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to managing global affairs.
- Assessment of international issues within a complex, interconnected, multicultural world
Dual Accreditation and Recognition
Earn an internationally recognized degree, enhancing your career prospects worldwide. Our dual accreditation by the Commission for University Education (CUE) in Kenya and the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WASCUC) in the USA ensures your qualification is respected and valued globally.
🎯 Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, you will be able to:
- Evaluate contending concepts and theories in International Relations;
- Conduct empirical research in International Relations and formulate evidence-based policies;
- Devise problem-solving intervention strategies and programs for dealing with national and international situations;
- Employ an integrated multi-disciplinary approach to the management of international affairs;
- Assess issues in International Relations within the context of a complex multi-cultural and interconnected world.
📌 Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations or Political Science:
- Or Bachelor’s degree from a recognized undergraduate degree in any field.
- Non-native English speakers may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized testing or equivalent qualifications.
💡 Pre-Requisite Courses
Students without a background in International Relations will do
- IRL 2000 Introduction to Political Science
- POL 2020 Introduction to Political Science
 Apply Now and Shape the Future of Global Affairs
Ready to advance your career in international relations? Apply to USIU-Africa’s online MA program.
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Curriculum
- 5 Sections
- 34 Lessons
- Lifetime
- First year requirements - 27 units9
- 1.1IRL6004: Foundations of International Relations (3 units)
- 1.2IRL6006: Contemporary International Relations Theory 3 units
- 1.3IRL6007: International Law (3 units)
- 1.4IRL6008: Qualitative Research Methods (3 units)
- 1.5IRL6200: International Organizations (3 units)
- 1.6IRL 6234: International Political Economy (3 units)
- 1.7IRL6009: Quantitative Research Methods (3 units)
- 1.8Core Course (Concentration) (3 units)
- 1.9Core Course (Concentration) (3 units)
- Second year requirements - 6 units6
- Development studies (15 hours) (students to do 3 core and pick any two electives)7
- 3.1IRL 6054 Theories of Development (core)
- 3.2IRL 6031 Politics of International Development (core)
- 3.3IRL 6033 Global Environmental Politics (core)
- 3.4IRL 6032 Sustainable development: Theories, policy, and practice (elective)
- 3.5IRL 6034 Public Policy (elective)
- 3.6IRL 6240 Post Coloniality in Africa (elective)
- 3.7IRL 6051 – Project Management and Fundraising (elective)
- Diplomacy & foreign policy (15 hours) (students to do 3 core and pick any two electives)6
- Peace, conflict & security studies (15 hours) (students to do 3 core and pick any two electives)6
- 5.1IRL6011: Theories of Peace Conflict and Security Studies (core)
- 5.2IRL 6012 Conflict Analysis and Resolution (core)
- 5.3IRL 6013 Conflict and Human Security (core)
- 5.4IRL6241 Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding(elective)
- 5.5IRL 6242 Emerging Issues in Peace and Conflict World Politics (elective)
- 5.6ILR 6215 International Humanitarian Law (elective)
Target audiences
- Diplomat
- Foreign Affairs Analyst
- Consultant
- Programme Officer
- Peace and Conflict Resolution Specialist
- Policy Advisor
- Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Manager
- Researcher
