This program is not currently accepting applications.
We recommend the MA in Politics with a concentration in International Studies.
The MA in International Studies (MAIS) program prepares leaders in international relations who possess advanced analytical research skills and deep understanding of theories and policy.
The International Studies program emphasizes rigorous training in cutting-edge technical and analytical skills, close engagement with theoretical and conceptual framework, and mastery of applications and policy issues in the real world. Students explore the link between politics and economics in the international arena and learn to use a variety of tools to apply theoretical knowledge to real international problems. The MAIS hones your potential for employment in nonprofits, defense agencies, investment banks, and more—anywhere the world needs you.
Program Highlights
- Concentrations are available in International Politics and Comparative Politics.
- Graduate-only education is offered in small, seminar-style classes taught by highly knowledgeable faculty-scholars.
- The MAIS program encourages flexibility and gives you the resources to develop an individualized curriculum
- Pursue your MAIS in conjunction with another degree. You earn a diploma for each degree and “double count” some units from one program to the other to decrease your required total units.
Program At-a-glance
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33 units
required units
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MA in International Studies
degree awarded
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In Person
modality
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Spring, Summer, Fall
program start
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1.5 years | full time*
estimated completion time
Areas of Concentration
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International Politics
Gain a deeper understanding of the link between politics, security, and global political development by utilizing computational and advanced methodological approaches.
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Comparative Politics
Scholars of Comparative Politics investigate similarities and differences in patterns of politics across the world. The field of Comparative Politics includes, among others, the study of political institutions and regimes; electoral behavior and procedures; identity, ideology, and culture; public policy; political economy and political and economic development; social movements and organizations; and protest and revolution.
Where You Can Find Our Alumni
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U.S. Embassy, Sudan
Chief of Mission
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The American University in Cairo
Provost
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African Futures
Policy & Issues Analyst
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Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia
Administrative Attaché
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Institute of Southeast Asia Studies
Senior Fellow
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College of Europe
Fulbright Professor
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University of Isfahan (FASE)
Vice Chancellor
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U.S. Embassy, Panama
Charge d'Affaires
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Dongguk University
Professor of Public Administration Theory, College of Social Science
Faculty
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Mark Abdollahian
Full Clinical Professor
Research Interests
Strategic Decision Making, International Political Economy, Sustainable Development
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Carlos Algara
Mary Toepelt Nicolai and George S. Blair Assistant Professor
Research Interests
American politics, the United States Congress, ideological representation, electoral politics, elite institutions
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Heather E. Campbell
Thornton F. Bradshaw Professor of Public Policy
Director, Division of Politics & EconomicsResearch Interests
Public Policy, Urban Environmental Policy, Environmental Justice
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Yi Feng
Luther Lee Jr. Memorial Chair Professor
Research Interests
International Political Economy, International Relations, Political Economy of China and Latin America, Quantitative Methodology
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Jacek Kugler
Elisabeth Helm Rosecrans Professor of International Relations
Research Interests
Causes and Consequences of War, Political Performance, Power Transition
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Tyler Reny
Assistant Professor
Research Interests
American Politics, Racial and Ethnic Politics, Political Behavior, Public Opinion, Political Psychology, Data Visualization
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Melissa Rogers
Professor, Politics & Policy
Co-Director, Inequality and Policy Research Center
Field Chair, Comparative Politics
Field Chair, American PoliticsResearch Interests
Comparative Politics, Political Economy, Economic Inequality
Curriculum
TransResearch Consortium
CGU’s Politics and Policy Department is a founding member of TransResearch Consortium with the Business School at La Sierra University. The consortium’s objective is to conduct research on major issues in international relations, supports students and to assist government officials in making strategically efficient long-term decisions amid dynamic international co
Cost & Aid
ESTIMATED TUITION (CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS, NON-RESIDENTS, INTERNATIONAL)
| Program | 36 units |
| Tuition per unit* | $2,070 |
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition rates.
STUDENT FEES (PER SEMESTER)
| $245 Student Fee |
| $150 Technology Fee |
| International Student Services Fee**: $802 fall semester, $898 spring semester **Applies to all international students (F-1 visa only) who are registered in coursework, doctoral study, or continuous registration. The fee is assessed each fall and spring semester for annual ISO accident and sickness plans and administrative fees. Subject to changes. |
For estimates of room & board, books, etc., please download CGU’s Cost of Attendance 2025-2026.