Dual Degree Program: MA in International Relations / MA in Economics
Syracuse University, United States
Dual Degree Program: MA in International Relations / MA in Economics
Syracuse University
International Relations & Economics
Program Overview: Dual MA in International Relations & Economics
The Dual MA in International Relations / MA in Economics at Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs allows you to earn two master's degrees in just two years, completing 58 credits instead of the 70 required if each degree were pursued separately. This accelerated program is designed for students with a strong interest in international economic development who want to combine rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics with a comprehensive foundation in international relations.
Housed within the Maxwell School — ranked #1 for Public Affairs by U.S. News & World Report for 30 consecutive survey years — this program draws on the school's interdisciplinary strengths across the social sciences. You will complete core courses in international relations alongside challenging coursework in economic theory and applied quantitative methods, preparing you to analyze complex global policy challenges from both political and economic perspectives.
Students select from one of five career tracks within international relations and complete a required professional internship that connects academic study to real-world practice. The program's Washington, D.C. campus and global academic partnerships provide opportunities to study and intern in major policy centers around the world, building the professional networks essential for a career in international affairs and economics.
Key Program Highlights
- Earn two master's degrees in only two years with a streamlined 58-credit curriculum
- Hosted by the Maxwell School, ranked #1 in Public Affairs by U.S. News & World Report
- Required professional internship with opportunities in Washington, D.C. and abroad
- Five specialized career tracks bridging international relations and economics
Curriculum & Modules
The dual degree curriculum integrates core requirements from both the MA in International Relations and the MA in Economics into a cohesive 58-credit program. Students build expertise in economic theory, econometrics, and international relations while choosing a career track and electives that align with their professional goals.
International Relations Theory
3 CreditsExamines major theoretical frameworks for understanding international politics, including realism, liberalism, constructivism, and critical approaches to global affairs.
Microeconomic Theory
3 CreditsCovers core microeconomic principles including consumer and producer theory, market structures, and welfare economics as applied to policy analysis.
Macroeconomic Theory
3 CreditsExplores macroeconomic models, monetary and fiscal policy, economic growth, and their implications for international economic systems.
Econometric Methods
3 CreditsProvides training in applied quantitative techniques including regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and data-driven policy evaluation methods.
International Economics
3 CreditsAnalyzes trade theory, exchange rate dynamics, balance of payments, and the impact of globalization on developed and emerging financial markets.
Professional Internship
3 CreditsA required 250-hour professional internship connecting academic study with practice in international relations and economics, available in Washington, D.C. or abroad.
Elective Specializations
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Dual MA in International Relations / MA in Economics is competitive and evaluated holistically. The Maxwell School considers each candidate's academic background, professional experience, and career goals. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for guidance on the process and required materials.
Academic Requirements
- Academic BackgroundBachelor's degree from an accredited institution with strong undergraduate coursework in economics or quantitative disciplines
- GPANo strict minimum; admitted students typically hold a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above
- GRENot required for PAIA master's programs; may be submitted to strengthen the application
- Letters of RecommendationTwo letters from current or previous faculty members or professional supervisors
- Statement of PurposeA personal essay outlining career goals and interest in the intersection of international relations and economics
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum 100 (preferred for competitive admission)
- IELTSMinimum 7.0 overall
- Duolingo English TestAccepted; contact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The Maxwell School offers merit-based financial support to qualified applicants for the Dual MA program. Most admitted students qualify for some level of scholarship funding based on the strength of their application. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding opportunities and eligibility.
Maxwell Merit-Based Tuition Scholarship
Partial tuition coverage (varies by applicant)Awarded automatically based on the strength of the application. Maxwell offers partial tuition scholarships that can cover a significant portion of program costs. No separate application is required — simply indicate interest in financial support on your application.
Graduate Fellowships
VariesSelect fellowship opportunities may be available for exceptional candidates demonstrating outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential. Contact Uni4Edu for details on current fellowship offerings.
External Scholarship Opportunities
Varies by organizationSyracuse University's Office of Financial Aid maintains an extensive list of external scholarship opportunities organized by academic focus and eligibility criteria. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for relevant external funding sources.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Dual MA in International Relations / MA in Economics are uniquely positioned for careers that require both analytical economic skills and deep understanding of global political dynamics. The combination of quantitative training and international affairs expertise opens doors across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors worldwide.
Potential Career Roles
Where Graduates Work
Rankings & Recognition
Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs is consistently recognized as the nation's leading school for public affairs education. The school has earned the #1 ranking in U.S. News & World Report's Best Public Affairs Schools in all but one survey since rankings began in 1995, underscoring the strength of its graduate programs in international relations and public policy.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Public Management & Leadership | U.S. News & World Report | #1 |
| Public Finance & Budgeting | U.S. News & World Report | #2 |
| Business & Economics | Times Higher Education | #251-300 |
| Nonprofit Management | U.S. News & World Report | #5 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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