Master of Science in International Relations and Business
Navigate the Global Economy with Confidence
In today’s hyperconnected and rapidly changing world, business strategy regularly goes beyond borders, and professionals with the right set of skills are capable of achieving global influence.
American University’s online Master of Science in International Relations and Business program is preparing the next generation of leaders to navigate complex international business environments across borders and cultures in private, public, and nonprofit sectors.
The MS in International Relations and Business is a joint degree developed by AU’s Kogod School of Business and the top-ranked School of International Service. Through this collaboration, students develop an advanced understanding of the intersection of business, foreign policy, and international affairs.
Top-Ranked Worldwide
The international relations master’s degree programs from American University’s School of International Service were ranked No. 8 worldwide by Foreign Policy magazine in 2018.1
AACSB Accredited
American University’s Kogod School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). AACSB accreditation is known worldwide as the longest-standing, most recognized form of specialized and professional accreditation an institution and its business programs can earn.
Curriculum
The skills-based MS in International Relations and Business curriculum is designed to promote an advanced understanding of how the global economy, policy environment, and business strategy function collectively.
Through weekly online class sessions and coursework, students explore how international commerce and cultural differences factor into business decisions within the global economy. Online learning is supplemented with an in-person immersion experience in a global business hub and a culminating capstone project.
Program Requirements
36
Course Credits
Global
Immersion
Capstone
Project
18-Month
Completion
Core Concepts
The curriculum helps students master an array of key business skills and understand corporate
responsibility and public policy on a global scale.
- Accounting and finance
- Marketing and business strategy
- Management, innovation, and entrepreneurship
- Negotiation and communication
- Business and public policy
- Global and international markets
Explore the MS in International Relations and Business curriculum.
Global Immersion Experience
Students gain global exposure during an in-person immersion experience in an international business hub. The immersion allows students to witness global business in action and learn about multinational corporations. Immersion themes and site visits vary by location.
During the immersion, students:
- collaborate with classmates on group projects
- visit businesses and organizations
- explore the culture of the host city
Connections in the
Nation’s Policy Hub
MS in International Relations and Business students benefit from the flexibility of an online program while still being able to take advantage of American University’s location in Washington, DC—home to some of world’s most prominent international organizations.
After graduation, students join the extensive alumni network from both the Kogod School of Business and the School of International Service. Our dedicated career services teams helps connect students with local and global organizations as well as to alumni who work at top companies worldwide.
WeWork Access for Students
All online MS in International Relations and Business students receive full access to WeWork’s global network of workspaces. Located in over 20 countries, WeWork offers students a convenient, quiet study space in their hometown or when they are traveling, or as a place to meet with classmates who live in the same city.
WeWork’s study-friendly environments include amenities, such as:
- private rooms
- reliable Wi-Fi
- printing and copying
- lounges and kitchens
- snacks and refreshments
- on-site support
Career-Advancing International Business Skills
The online master’s in international relations and business program is designed to provide professionals within the business, foreign policy, and nonprofit fields with practical business strategies that will help their organizations make effective multinational decisions and navigate the global economy. Those with a business background will learn to apply skills with an understanding of international cultures and context, while international affairs professionals will learn to approach issues with a business perspective.
International Relations Skills
- Intercultural communication
- International economic organizations
- Global markets
- International negotiation
- Corporate social responsibility
Business Skills
- Finance
- Accounting
- Economics
- Statistics
- Management
- Marketing
- Business strategy
Using the skills learned in the program, students graduate ready to effectively lead teams from all over the world and manage across cultures, languages, and geopolitical challenges to make a global impact. Graduates may pursue careers in:
- Business Policy
- Consulting
- Foreign Commercial Service
- Foreign Commercial Policy
- Nonprofits
- Government
- Management
MBA vs. MS in International Relations and Business
When choosing which business degree is the right fit, applicants should consider their career goals and how they plan to use the skills learned through the program. The Kogod School of Business currently offers an online MBA program in addition to the online MS in International Relations and Business program.
Master’s in Business Administration
Students should choose this path if they are seeking a more traditional business degree and want to advance skills in management, strategy, finance, accounting, leadership, marketing, and operations.
Master’s in Int’l Relations and Business
Students should choose this path if they want to focus on the same core business skills as an MBA degree but use those skills in an international context, such as working on international assignments or influencing global policy.
Applying to the Online Master’s in International Relations and Business Program
Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university to apply. GMAT and GRE scores are not required.
To complete the application, candidates must submit the following:
- Online application
- Application fee
- Two personal essays
- Résumé
- Letters of recommendation
- Transcripts
Application Deadlines
Kogod accepts applications on a rolling basis. Those who submit an application by the priority application deadline will receive an earlier admissions decision and an application fee waiver.
| Program Start Date | Priority Application Deadline | Final Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| July 2020 | April 20, 2020 | May 18, 2020 |
| October 2020 | July 20, 2020 | August 17, 2020 |