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    Mar 28, 2024  
American University Catalog 2017-2018 
    
American University Catalog 2017-2018 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

International Service (MIS): International Studies Track


Offered by the School of International Service , the Master of International Service (MIS) is specifically designed for those with significant experience in international affairs or for those completing, or having recently completed (within three years), a master’s level program in international affairs or related field from an approved institutional partner. The program’s one year intensive period of study is complemented by opportunities for participating in an array of public dialogue and ongoing research programs.

The Master of International Service International Studies Track is designed for students who are currently enrolled in a master’s level program in international affairs or a related field with a partner institution, or have recently completed (within three years) a master’s level program in international affairs or a related field from a partner institution.

Admission to the Program


Applicants must hold an accredited bachelor’s degree with a cumulative grade point average of at least B+ (3.30 or higher on a 4.00 scale). Students who do not meet these minimum requirements, if otherwise admissible, may be assigned additional coursework in excess of degree requirements specified at the time of admission.

Admitted students may defer matriculation for no more than two semesters provided that a written request for deferment is submitted to and approved by the SIS Graduate Admissions Office.

All applicants whose native language is English or those whose degrees are from an accredited institution where the language of instruction is English are required to submit results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). This requirement may be waived. Non-native English speakers are required to submit results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) unless they hold a degree from a U.S.-accredited institution before enrollment at SIS. The minimum TOEFL score for full admissions consideration is 100 on the Internet-based test (iBT) or 600 on the paper-based test (PBT). The minimum IELTS score is 7.0. Applicants should plan to take the TOEFL prior to December to ensure full consideration of the application for the following fall semester.

All applicants are required to submit official transcripts and translations from their undergraduate institutions and two letters of reference evaluating their suitability for the program in international service. Finally, applicants must submit an essay outlining their motivation for graduate study. The essay should also contain a brief description of their intended program of study.

Students applying for the International Studies Track should be currently enrolled in or have recently completed (within three years) a master’s level program in international affairs or a related field at an approved partner institution.

Degree Requirements


  • 30 credit hours of approved graduate coursework with a cumulative grade point average of 3.00, including 18 credit hours in residence.
    • Students in the International Studies Track may receive up to 12 credit hours of advanced standing for credits earned at the partner institution that meet the requirements for the MIS.
  • Capstone experience: demonstration of critical thinking, research and writing skills through completion of a master’s thesis, substantial research paper requirement, or practicum. All courses taken to fulfill this requirement must be passed with a grade of B or better.

Course Requirements


Concentration (27 credit hours)


  • 27 credit hours of graduate coursework from an approved concentration

Capstone Experience (3 credit hours)


  • Substantial research paper or practicum requirement