International Studies (Master of Arts in International Studies - MAIS)

The MA in International Studies program at the University of San Francisco provides students with an in-depth and critical perspective on the key actors and processes that shape our contemporary world. This four-semester program provides students with a broad understanding of critical social theory and global-local connections, along with an opportunity to focus on one of three areas: Governance and Global Justice; Sustainable Development and Environmental Justice; or Culture, Power, and Social Movements. Our students also receive training in the skills needed to effect change in the world including research and writing skills, research design and methods skills, and options for professional skills such as grant writing, GIS, and advocacy skills.

The mission of the University of San Francisco and the International Studies program centers on social justice from a global perspective. The program is designed to provide students with in-depth, interdisciplinary knowledge of the issues and challenges that face the global community. By analyzing these issues through a social justice lens, our students spend a significant amount of time learning about how to support underserved populations. Our program provides Returned Peace Corps Volunteers with the opportunity to expand on their experience in a meaningful way in one of the country’s greatest cities.