The Master of Arts in International Studies is a 36 semester (s.h.) program designed to develop professional competencies and understandings in its graduates that will enable them to practice their professions effectively in a global context and to comprehend global issues. It should be noted that the program is not a traditional M.A. in International Relations typically offered by a Department of Political Science. Rather, it is an innovative interdisciplinary program open to qualified students from all academic disciplines and professional backgrounds. Accordingly, the program provides opportunities campus-wide for students to attain master's-level education in their academic discipline or profession while gaining global perspectives and experiences and preparing themselves for careers in countries other than the one in which they were born and reared.
Drawing on the numerous existing academic strengths at East Carolina University, the program has five major components:
International studies core: A core of four 3-s.h. courses (12 s.h.)
Academic or professional concentration: Four 3.s.h. courses in the student's academic or professional area (12 s.h.)
International Field Experience: Second culture study, practical training, internship, research, and/or employment (6.s.h.)
