Department of Political Science & International Affairs offers a variety of options for online graduate students
The Department of Political Science & International Affairs was an early adopter of online graduate programs. The department began offering a fully online Master of Arts in International Affairs (M.A.I.A.) degree in the fall 2009 semester and the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program launched in fall 2017 (previously the M.P.A. degree was offered on the Dahlonega campus since spring 1996) .
All courses in the graduate programs are developed and taught by full time faculty members that hold terminal degrees in the fields. Both the programs are intended to be challenging yet flexible enough to accommodate busy life schedules. According to MPA program director, Dr. Luisa
Diaz Kope, the program offers three concentrations: Public Affairs, Diversity, and Military Leadership which allows students flexibility in pursuing their area of interest. The program prepares students for careers as managers and leaders in public, government and nonprofit organizations. The program offers a variety of core courses including Public Budgeting, Public Personnel Administration, The Legal and Ethical Environment of Public Administration, and a Research Practicum. Since the launch of the online program, interest in the program and enrollments have increased exponentially. Currently there are over 40 MPA students enrolled in the program.
According to MAIA program director, Dr. Cristian Harris, “Most of our students are working professionals who are particularly attracted to the flexibility that the online format offers. The program offers all courses necessary to graduate with the degree on a two-year rotation.” The MAIA program is designed to provide an advanced understanding of the international system along with a focus on the multiple facets of global security issues and/or regional issues. It consists of seven foundational courses including International Relations Theory, Comparative Politics, International Political Economy, Global Governance, and Foreign Policy Process. The degree provides students the research and analytical skills to help them to advance in their profession or begin to explore a career in international affairs.
These programs are supported by thirty-one faculty members across UNG’s five campuses. Our diverse faculty is dedicated to supporting your academic growth via research and practicum opportunities. Visit the graduate studies page for more information:
