Field-Based Learning

In the Practicum in International Affairs—one of the final capstone project options for MA and MS students—a team of students works for a client organization conducting research, program or project design, or monitoring and evaluation; building communication platforms; or engaging in a number of other activities. Clients have included UN agencies, major international NGOs such as Transparency International, community-based organizations in the United States and abroad, social enterprises, and more. Through the practicum, students develop the analytical and applied skills necessary to become well-rounded professionals prepared to address challenging social problems, whether they work in the public, private, or nonprofit sector.

International Affairs Studios are new opportunities designed to place collaboration and engaged learning at the center of the MA and MS learning experience. Studios integrate on-campus courses with field-based experiences abroad during the winter and summer breaks, giving students the opportunity to expand their research beyond the semester and outside of the classroom.

We currently offer Studios on urban issues in Cuba, migration in southern Europe, and international aid around the world, with others in development.

Students pursuing an MA or MS in International Affairs can take advantage of the incomparable range of organizations working on international issues in New York City. The extraordinary range of international NGOs, intergovernmental institutions, global companies, and government agencies provides unique opportunities for internships. Internships are a powerful complement to the International Affairs curriculum: they provide opportunities to apply theory to organizational practices, can be the sources of practicum or thesis projects, and for many students lead to employment after receiving a degree.