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SAIS Degree Options

Master of Arts (M.A.) | Master of International Public Policy (M.I.P.P.) | Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Dual-Degree Programs | Non-Degree & Summer Programs

The Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) of The Johns Hopkins University in Washington, D.C., is a world-renowned graduate school devoted to the study of international relations. SAIS offers three advanced degree options: Master of Arts (M.A.), Master of Public Policy (M.I.P.P.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Additionally, SAIS offers dual-degree programs, and non-degree and summer programs.

Master of Arts (M.A.)

The Master of Arts is a two-year, full-time interdisciplinary program in which degree candidates pursue dual concentrations in International Relations (with a focus of the student’s choosing) and International Economics. The International Relations concentration provides students in-depth knowledge coupled with the theoretical, analytical and practical tools necessary for expertise in the chosen area of study. The second concentration, in International Economics, offers students a comprehensive set of quantitative skills that enhance their professional capabilities.

Language study is an integral part of the M.A. program; each M.A. student is required to pass a foreign language proficiency exam in order to graduate. The SAIS Language Studies Program offers classes that help students meet the language requirement for graduation. In addition, language classes present a valuable opportunity to develop vocabulary and communication abilities relevant to students’ academic studies and career goals.

The other components of the SAIS M.A. degree are the core examinations and the final oral exams. To ensure that M.A. candidates possess a balanced, comprehensive background in international affairs, they must pass exams in at least two of four core subjects: American Foreign Policy Since World War II, Comparative National Systems, Evolution of the International System and Theories of International Relations. The oral exam is a comprehensive final exam focused on each M.A. student’s dual concentrations in International Relations and International Economics.

To learn more about the M.A. program, including concentration options and detailed program requirements, visit www.sais-jhu.edu/academics/degrees/ma/index.htm.

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Master of International Public Policy (M.I.P.P.)

The Master of International Public Policy program is for mid-career professionals with at least nine years of work experience in international affairs. The program features intensive study in International Relations, International Economics or some combination of these disciplines. The M.I.P.P. degree consists of eight non-language courses, completed full-time within one year or part-time over two years.

The M.I.P.P. student does not fulfill concentration requirements but instead designs a program based on specific academic and professional interests. Candidates may choose any combination of eight courses from the SAIS curriculum. Some M.I.P.P. students elect to spend the year focusing on one regional area or on International Economics. Others select courses from various regional and functional fields.

To learn more about the M.I.P.P. program, visit www.sais-jhu.edu/academics/degrees/mipp/index.htm.

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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is conferred in recognition of mature scholarship and originality of thought. The Ph.D. program is designed to develop a doctoral candidate’s proficiency in the field of study related to the planned dissertation as well as in two other fields of study selected by the candidate. Comprehensive exams must be passed in each of these three areas. Candidates complete the program under the supervision of a faculty adviser.

Applicants for the Ph.D. program must hold a two-year master of arts in a relevant field; applicants with only a bachelor’s degree cannot be considered for the SAIS Ph.D. program and should consider the SAIS M.A. program.

To learn more about the Ph.D. program, visit www.sais-jhu.edu/academics/degrees/phd/index.htm.

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Dual-Degree Programs

SAIS offers dual-degree options in partnership with leading graduate schools. Students may also create ad hoc dual-degree programs with other prominent universities. Approximately 10 percent of SAIS M.A. students pursue dual-degree programs in business, law, public administration and public health.

To learn more about dual-degree programs at SAIS, visit http://www.sais-jhu.edu/admissions/dualdegrees/.

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Non-Degree & Summer Programs

SAIS offers a number of options for non-degree students interested in international relations—including courses leading to a certificate in International Studies or International Development, evening classes through the SAIS Summer Language Institute, and part-time, non-degree admission (on a limited basis) to spring and fall semester courses for credit or audit.

To learn more about non-degree and summer programs at SAIS, visit www.sais-jhu.edu/academics/non-degree/index.htm.

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