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Master of Arts in International Relations

Develop a Worldview with Real-World Application

 

Global crises highlight how interconnected our world truly is. With Norwich University’s online Master of Arts in International Relations, you will be prepared for global leadership and large-scale engagement. As the nation’s oldest private military college, Norwich offers a uniquely grounded perspective on the political, economic, and cultural forces shaping modern society. With our expert faculty in the field, you will be positioned to excel in your area of interest. 

 

Program Learning Outcomes

  • Analyzing Global Dynamics: Learn to interpret complex political, economic, and cultural issues on an international level.
  • Apply Foundational Theories: Utilize prevalent theories of foreign relations to build compelling cases and exercise credible influence.
  • Navigate Power Distribution: Evaluate the multidimensional aspects of culture, economics, and politics driving modern society.
  • Lead on a Global Scale: Preparation for international engagement, a meaningful career in an ever-changing world arena.

Key Information:

Requirements and Concentrations Career Outcomes Admission Details 

Flexible Graduate Certificates:

Use your certificate towards a master's degree.

Not quite ready for a full master’s program? Build valuable field expertise in 6 months that can seamlessly apply 12 credits towards your Master of Arts in International Relations with Norwich's

Related Programs:

Master of Arts in Diplomacy Master of Arts in History

Next Graduate Session Start Dates:

FALL: August 31, 2026

WINTER: November 23, 2026

SPRING: February 22, 2027

Next Graduate Session Application Deadlines:

FALL: August 21, 2026

WINTER: November 13, 2026

SPRING: February 12, 2027

Quick Info

100%

Online

Courses completed entirely online

15

Students

Maximum number of students per class

18

Months

Average time to program completion

Alumni Testimonials

Laura Heller Master of Arts in Diplomacy Grad

The proficiency, commitment, and diversity of the faculty and administration are unparalleled. Every member of the Norwich staff demonstrated real dedication to support and assist students in the graduate program, wherever located throughout the world and

Laura Heller

'14 Master of Arts in Diplomacy

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Maria Grove, Master of Arts in Diplomacy Grad

This degree has enriched me beyond belief. I have become an educational role model for my daughters – its never too late or too hard to go after what you want.

Maria Grove

'17 Master of Arts in Diplomacy

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Stephan's photo

was able to work through multiple obstacles of life while working full time that requires bi-monthly travel, writing course papers on the airplane, and meeting family obligations.

Stephan Bohanan

'15 Computer Forensics and Incident Response Management

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Frank Christopher Ofner

Not only have so many faculty and staff served, but the coursework often reflects our military mindset. That gives Norwich a distinct advantage within the veteran and military community.

Frank Christopher Ofner

'20 Master of Arts in Military History

Read Story
Kenneth Lai headshot

The fundamentals learned in the MBA program provide a springboard that will allow me to dive deeper into business material that would have otherwise been very challenging to understand without the foundational knowledge provide by the MBA program.

Kenneth Lai

'15 Master of Business Administration

Read Story
Laura Heller Master of Arts in Diplomacy Grad

Laura Heller

Maria Grove, Master of Arts in Diplomacy Grad

Maria Grove

Stephan's photo

Stephan Bohanan

Frank Christopher Ofner

Frank Christopher Ofner

Kenneth Lai headshot

Kenneth Lai

Faculty & Staff

Our online International Relations program is led by a faculty of experts covering a wide range of international relations topics, including international systems, conflict avoidance and resolution, political theory, and foreign policy. Each are here, from beginning to end, to help you reach your academic, professional, and personal goals. We have an in-house instructional design team that work hand-in-hand with program faculty and staff to ensure an efficient and interactive online learning experience in each course.

All Faculty & Staff

Career Outcomes:

What does your future career look like with a Master of Arts in International Relations? As the nation's first private military college, Norwich carries a reputation that resonates with decision-makers in government, the military, and beyond. Whether you're advancing within your current field or pivoting into international affairs, your degree signals the discipline, rigor, and public service commitment that employers in this space are looking for. 

  • Program Manager/Director

    Plans, leads, and oversees programs across government agencies, defense contractors, non-government organizations, and international organizations. One of the highest-demand career paths for International Relations graduates. Both the manager and director titles fall under the same BLS category. Median salary: $136,550

    Program Manager/Director Careers
  • International Trade Specialist

    Analyzes and manages international trade compliance, develops and implements trade policies, processes import/export documentation, and advises organizations on regulatory requirements across global markets. Great fit for Master of Arts in International Relations graduates with concentrations in international security, cyberdiplomacy, or regions of the world. Median salary: $81,270

    International Trade Specialist Careers
  • Political Scientist

    Researches and analyzes political systems, foreign policy, and public policy. Predominantly employed in the Federal Government, the top sector for Master of Arts in International Relations graduates. Median Salary: $139,380

    Political Scientist Careers

Admissions Details

At a Glance

No GRE/GMAT required Undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher

 

 

Contact Admissions

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EDT    
Extended hours available by appointment

Call: 1-888-409-1480 
learn@norwich.edu

Transfer Credits


You may receive the equivalent of up to 12 semester credits for study conducted elsewhere. Norwich complies with VA regulations and guidelines as it pertains to transfer credits.
Learn more »

International Admissions


Norwich University welcomes students from all countries who want to study through our online programs. You must complete all steps in the admissions process.
International Admissions »

Norwich Alumni Benefits


Reconnect with Norwich to complete your master's degree. As apart of our alumni community, you are eligible for a $2,500 scholarship and other benefits.
Connect with our advisors »

Non-Discrimination Statement

Norwich University, in compliance with Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, or physical handicap in any of its policies, practices, or procedures.

NECHE Accredited

 Norwich University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.).

Eligibility Requirements

 

  • A bachelor's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited U.S. institution, or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution, as evaluated by a NACES approved agency.
  • If English is not your first language, proof of English language proficiency is required. This can be demonstrated in one of three ways:
    • TOEFL - a minimum score of 550 (paper-based test) or 80 (Internet-based test) is required.*
    • IELTS – a minimum composite score of 6.5 is required.*
    • Duolingo - a minimum score of 110 is required.
    • The applicant holds a baccalaureate or master’s degree from a college/university/institution in which the primary language of instruction was English.

Please Note:  All eligibility requirements are expected to be met unless noted in specific articulation agreements or memoranda of understanding (MOUs).

Application Process

We encourage you to contact an admissions advisor (see below) if you need help at any stage of the application process. You will be required to submit the following items:

  • Application form
  • Official transcript of your undergraduate degree from a regionally or nationally accredited university, mailed to the address below.
  • Proof of English language proficiency if applicable (TOEFL)

Transcript Links

Mail transcripts to:
Norwich University
ATTN: CGCS
158 Harmon Drive
Northfield, VT 05663

For electronic delivery, we accept transcripts delivered from Parchment, National Clearing House, and other services if sent to cgcsamt@norwich.edu via password protection.

To contact an admissions advisor:

Call: 1-888-409-1480
Email: learn@norwich.edu

When applying for a graduate program at Norwich University, there are two essential factors to consider: what does it cost, and how can you pay for it? There are many ways to get financial assistance and several financial strategies that can help you achieve your academic and professional goals. We are here to help you identify and pursue the options that are best for you.

Tuition at a Glance
Credit Hours: 33
Cost Per Credit Hour: $550 - $698
Additional fees & military discounts may apply.


Financial Aid Resources
Paying for your Education

Program Requirements

Norwich’s 33-credit MAIR program is comprised of five, 11-week courses. Instead of a core curriculum, your first courses focus on the concentration of your choice and then followed by one elective course. Students master one course at a time, to create a strong foundation of knowledge and context for future topics.

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For full course listings, requirements, and registration information, head to the Norwich University Course Catalog.

Summer Immersion Courses – ​​​Berlin, Germany

Norwich Online is thrilled to announce that this summer 2026, we are holding two graduate-level courses with a one-week immersive in-person instruction in Berlin, Germany. These courses are available to current Norwich Online students

 

Hybrid Warfare

Throughout the course, participants will engage in an intensive, hands-on, cumulative exercise in which they will develop and test offensive and defensive hybrid campaign strategies, analyze information and influence operations, and apply structured frameworks for risk and escalation management. Topics include megatrends and concepts and theories of hybrid warfare, offensive and defensive toolkits, intelligence preparation, institutions and laws, mapping vulnerability, and the role of cyber and information operations in modern conflict.

Students enrolling in this course can take advantage of a unique opportunity to visit Norwich’s Berlin, Germany campus. While in Germany, participants will engage in a simulation exercise that applies hybrid warfare frameworks within a European context. This hands-on activity will help them hone their decision-making skills, enhance leadership abilities, and put into practice the knowledge gained throughout the course.

Following this exercise, students will participate in an after-action report to reflect on their performance in Berlin, including factors such as participation, leadership, decision-making, application of key principles, metacognitive awareness, and mastery of course objectives.  

This innovative hybrid course is dedicated to the critical study of Hybrid Warfare and its application within today’s complex security landscape. The dynamic program spans 11 weeks, featuring 10 weeks of engaging, instructor-led asynchronous online learning and a week of immersive in-person instruction in Berlin, Germany.

Participants will delve into the multifaceted nature of hybrid conflict, exploring it as both a dynamic and contested field of scholarship and a practical toolkit used by both state and non-state actors to achieve strategic objectives without crossing the line into open warfare. Rather than portraying hybrid warfare as a rigid doctrine, this course emphasizes the themes of ambiguity, competitive strategies, and informed decision-making.

The deadline for applying for the summer seminar is April 30, 2026. Accepted students may use this seminar as a capstone replacement or elective, depending on eligibility and approval from the Academic Director. There is also a $3500 fee to cover the cost of the Berlin experience.

Graduate programs with eligible students include:

View the Application

Global Strategic Leadership

In partnership with Helmut Schmidt University (HSU), this 11-week graduate seminar delves into strategic leadership in complex global environments and examines the growing threat of disinformation to global security.

Throughout the program, participants will enhance their skills in executive communication, decision-making under uncertainty, and cross-cultural leadership, all while gaining international academic experience. Plus, you will tackle real-world strategic issues related to global security and disinformation.

The program will conclude with an immersive, one-week in-person workshop in Berlin from July 28 to August 3. Here, you will join a dynamic German-American cohort, focusing on cross-cultural collaboration, virtual teamwork, systems thinking, and strategic leadership, all through the lens of national and international security. This is a unique chance to learn from global experts and build international relationships that will enhance your leadership skills.

Enrollment is limited to 10 Norwich students and 10 Helmut Schmit University (HSU) students. Graduate programs with eligible students include:

The deadline for applying for the summer seminar is April 30, 2026. Accepted students may use this seminar as a capstone replacement or elective, depending on eligibility and approval from the Academic Director. There is also a $3500 fee to cover the cost of the Berlin experience.

This is a unique opportunity to expand your global leadership abilities, gain hands-on experience in international security, and collaborate with peers from around the world.

View the Application