Skip over carousel to next section
  • Wilkinson College student listening intently to classmate
Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

»Master of Arts in International Studies

The Master of Arts in International Studies at Chapman University’s Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences is a two-year interdisciplinary course of study that links global theory and practice. The program prepares graduates for a range of global careers with nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), the United Nations (UN), U.S. Foreign Service, and other global entities. 

International Studies students culminate their degrees with the MA thesis, which analyzes contemporary global challenges. The International Studies program immerses students in culture and real-world inquiry, offering the language and professional skills necessary to succeed in global professions.

Why get an MA in International Studies at Chapman?

  • Work with faculty who bring exrtensive research and professional expertise from around the world in various disciplines including political science, sociology, economics, communication, peace studies and law.
  • Enhance your cross-cultural professional skills through an immersive 240-hour internship experience in industries such as non-profit, humanitarian and development work, diplomacy, education and business.
Iara Gonzalez-Ascencio
Alumni Highlight
Iara Gonzalez-Ascencio ’24
“I truly appreciated the unwavering support and care provided by the MAIS Program’s Director, Graduate Programs Coordinator, and faculty. From the beginning to the end, their guidance and understanding were invaluable.”
Juan Bastillo
Alumni Highlight
Juan Bustillo, MA '20
“The opportunities I was able to take advantage of during my time at Chapman allowed me to combine my different passions and interests in ways I didn't expect. The students and faculty pushed me to explore new possibilities within the discipline, particularly with documentary filmmaking, and not let myself get complacent with my work.”

 

Crystal Murphy
Faculty Highlight
Dr. Crystal Murphy
Courses taught: Global Political Economy, International Relations, Politics of Humanitarianism, International Development Strategy and NGOs, Environmental Policy
Read more about Dr. Crystal Murphy
Andrea Molle
Faculty Highlight
Dr. Andrea Molle
Courses taught: Research Design, Campaigns and Elections, Game Theory for Political Scienc
Read more about Dr. Andrea Molle

 


Toggle Section

Application Requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the following:

  • Application to the Master of Arts in International Studies program.
  • Official transcripts must be submitted from ALL degree-granting (bachelor’s or master’s degrees) colleges and universities attended. An official transcript submitted in a sealed envelope which you have received from your college or university is acceptable.
  • A graduate admission test is required for applicants with a bachelor's degree cumulative GPA below a 3.0. Applicants with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.99, may be considered for admission by submitting a satisfactory Graduate Record Examination (GRE) with minimum scores of Verbal: 154, Quantitative: 147, and Analytical Writing: 4.0 or by demonstrating significant relevant professional experience. GRE Institution Code: 4047.
  • Two letters of recommendation, including one from an academic source, which describes your professional and academic abilities.
  • Submit an essay expressing your reasons for wanting to join the MA International Studies program. What are your personal and career goals, and how will this particular degree from Chapman University help you reach those goals? Your essay should be double spaced, size 12 font, and 2-4 pages in length.
  • Your resume or curriculum vitae.

Curriculum

Students complete 36 credits of academic coursework, demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language equivalent to having completed two courses in the language at the 300 level, complete a 240-hour international internship between their first and second years of study, and successfully complete a master's thesis. Thesis fieldwork may include surveys, interviews or observations. For further information on degree prerequisites, admission requirements and a list of courses view the Graduate Course Catalog.

International Studies Fellowship

  • Chapman’s International Studies program offers competitive full and half-tuition fellowships to exceptional applicants.
  • To be considered as an International Studies Fellow, applications must be received by the February 1 deadline (priority deadline to be considered for fellowships and scholarships).
  • All fall applicants will be considered for fellowship and scholarship awards.

Sigma Iota Rho: The Honor Society for International Studies, Delta Mu Chapter

The Honor Society for International Studies, Sigma Iota Rho was first established in 1984 and now claims over 100 chapters on campuses across the nation. The Chapman University chapter, Delta Mu, was established primarily as a means to honor those students who have excelled academically and have shown extracurricular achievement. The purpose of the society is to promote and reward scholarship and service among students of International Studies, and to foster integrity and creative performance in the understanding of world affairs. 

The Center for International Experiential Learning: CIEL

The MA in International Studies program and the Department of Peace Studies are proud partners with the Center for International Experiential Learning (CIEL).

CIEL’s unique holistic learning model combines extensive interdisciplinary pre-travel scholarly education with on-the-ground experiential learning in conflict-affected regions guided by internationally recognized scholars and local experts.

Chapman University joins other students from universities across the US and UK to receive on-the-ground exposure to the people, politics and realities.

A unique part of the MAIS program's commitment to experiential learning, students have the opportunity to actively engage with politicians, community leaders, non-governmental organizations, faith leaders, academic experts and victims/survivors from all sides impacted by the conflicts.

You can read about our inaugural summer program, including student and faculty testimonials, and also our next trips by clicking on the links below.

Contact Us

Crystal Murphy, Ph.D.
Director, MA in International Studies
crmurphy@chapman.edu

David Krausman
Graduate Programs Coordinator
(714) 516-7116
krausman@chapman.edu

Shannon Morris Alvarez
Graduate Admission Counselor
(714) 628-2884
shannona@chapman.edu

For additional admission information, please contact:

Office of Graduate Admission
888-CU-APPLY or (714) 997-6711
gradadmit@chapman.edu

Live Information Session

Watch our last virtual information session from fall of 2023!

    Application Deadlines

    Apply now using the Online Application. Submit your application and all supporting documents by the deadline listed below. 

    Applications received after these deadlines will be considered on a rolling basis as space is available.

    • For Fall Semester: February 1
    • For Spring Semester: November 1