International Studies, MA

Tackling the challenges facing the global community

Come earn a master’s degree in changing the world. Come prepare for a career in international affairs. In two years at USF you’ll learn to think critically about equitable development, social movements, social justice, and environmental sustainability — and you’ll gain the hands-on experience you need to effect change.

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What Makes USF Master's of International Studies Different?

Only USF places you in the heart of San Francisco, a diverse and global city known for innovation and opportunities.

Learn Across Disciplines

Come study what you need to succeed: global governance, human rights, sustainable development, environmental justice, peace and conflict resolution, international law, gender, migration, and social movements.

Program Overview

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Learn From San Francisco

San Francisco brings the world to your doorstep. Attend conferences on topics ranging from international diplomacy and technology to sustainable agriculture. Enjoy museums, music, outdoor adventure, and foods from every culture.

Learn from industry

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Prepare for a Profession

Come learn to make a difference in government agencies, international NGOs, nonprofits, think tanks, philanthropies and foundations, arts, media and technology or in research, education, or doctoral study.

Career Outcomes

Gain Practical Experience

Through the internship, fellowship, and volunteer requirement, you'll gain hands-on experience while earning course credit. Our students have landed internships on five continents.

Intern or Volunteer

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Meet Your Mentors

At USF, professors practice what they preach, and they’re all here to help you. Come learn from leading scholars in development, law, human rights, indigenous rights, and environmental protection.

Meet the Faculty

Video Transcript

10 Things You Will Develop During Your Master’s in International Studies Program

Thinking about a Master’s in International Studies? Learn the 10 things you will develop during your degree program.

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I was drawn to MAIS not only because of its location in San Francisco, but for the interdisciplinary nature of the program. It gave me the chance to learn about five different subjects (I chose Political Science, Anthropology, Economics, Language, and History) and let me discover how they were all interrelated.

Andrew Che '16