QS Rank:

301

Georgetown University

District of Columbia
,United States

Program Name
Masters in Foreign Service
Overview

The Master of Foreign Service program at Georgetown University is a distinguished and comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required for a successful career in international affairs. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the Walsh School of Foreign Service stands as one of the most prestigious institutions for the study of foreign relations, diplomacy, and global policy. This program prepares students for a diverse range of roles in government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector, focusing on the dynamics of international relations and the intricacies of global governance.
The program spans over a duration of 24 months and includes an array of core and elective courses that cover foundational topics in foreign policy, international economics, and global security. Students will engage with courses that delve into international law, conflict resolution, and economic development, ensuring a holistic understanding of the forces that shape global interactions. Additionally, students can tailor their educational experiences through specialized tracks that include International Development, and Security Studies, allowing them to hone in on specific areas of interest within the field of foreign service.
One of the standout features of the Master of Foreign Service program is the exceptional faculty comprised of seasoned professionals and scholars with extensive experience in diplomatic service, international law, and policy analysis. These experts employ innovative teaching methodologies, engaging students through a blend of traditional classroom instruction, case studies, and real-world simulations. This approach not only fosters critical thinking but also encourages the development of practical skills essential for navigating complex international landscapes.
Research opportunities abound at Georgetown University, where students can collaborate with faculty on impactful projects or engage in independent studies that contribute to pressing global issues. The university's commitment to research is exemplified by state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy and access to a vast network of international archives and databases. Students are encouraged to present their findings at conferences and publish in renowned journals, providing an excellent platform for academic and professional advancement.
Moreover, the Master of Foreign Service program emphasizes building strong connections with industry leaders through various internship opportunities and partnerships with organizations in Washington, D.C. and beyond. These connections provide students with invaluable hands-on experience and often lead to job placements post-graduation. Alumni of the program are spread across various sectors, including the United Nations, the U.S. State Department, and major non-profit organizations, demonstrating the program's efficacy in fostering career success.
Why Study Foreign Service at Georgetown University
- A prestigious program with a strong reputation among international students, ensuring a diverse and vibrant community.
- Access to renowned faculty members who are leaders in their fields, providing unparalleled guidance and mentorship.
- State-of-the-art research facilities and resources to support cutting-edge research work and academic projects.
- Extensive career services and excellent job placement programs that connect students with top organizations and employers.
- Engagement in a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs focused on international relations, enhancing networking opportunities.
Admission to the Master of Foreign Service program requires prospective students to have a strong academic background, typically necessitating a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While specific prerequisites can vary, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate proficiency in international relations, political science, or related fields. Furthermore, English language proficiency is a must for non-native speakers, evidenced by standardized tests such as the IELTS (with a minimum score of 7.0) or the TOEFL (with a minimum score of 100).
The application process involves submitting a completed application form along with a non-refundable fee, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and official academic transcripts. The program often reviews candidates based on their academic achievements, relevant experience, and commitment to the field of foreign service. This rigorous selection process ensures that only the most qualified and motivated individuals are accepted into this elite program.
Georgetown University’s Master of Foreign Service program not only prepares students academically but also cultivates a strong sense of global citizenship and responsibility. Graduates emerge as leaders equipped to tackle the challenges of an increasingly interconnected world. With an impressive track record of successful alumni, students can expect a transformative educational journey that shapes their professional futures.

Duration
24 Months
Ranking
#22
US World and News Report
#136
The World University Rankings
#301
QS World University Rankings
Class Profile
Diversity
Others:
10%International:
5%Virginia:
10%District of Columbia:
60%Maryland:
15%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
7
TOEFL
100
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 90
Application Deadlines
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$58,002 / year
FAQs
Admission to the Master of Foreign Service program requires prospective students to have a strong academic background, which typically includes:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Proficiency in international relations, political science, or related fields is encouraged.
- For non-native English speakers, proficiency must be demonstrated through standardized tests like the IELTS (minimum score of 7.0) or the TOEFL (minimum score of 100).
The application process involves submitting:
- A completed application form along with a non-refundable fee.
- Personal statements.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Official academic transcripts.
The program reviews candidates based on academic achievements, relevant experience, and commitment to the field of foreign service.
The Master of Foreign Service program spans a duration of 24 months and includes a mix of core and elective courses. The coursework covers foundational topics such as:
- Foreign policy
- International economics
- Global security
Students will engage with courses that delve into:
- International law
- Conflict resolution
- Economic development
Additionally, students have the opportunity to tailor their education through specialized tracks, which include:
- International Development
- Security Studies
The Master of Foreign Service program employs innovative teaching methodologies that include:
- Traditional classroom instruction
- Case studies
- Real-world simulations
This blend of teaching methods fosters critical thinking and encourages the development of practical skills essential for navigating complex international landscapes.
One of the standout features of the program is the emphasis on research opportunities. Students can:
- Collaborate with faculty on impactful projects
- Engage in independent studies contributing to pressing global issues
Georgetown University provides state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy, and access to a vast network of international archives and databases. Students are also encouraged to present their findings at conferences and publish in renowned journals, which supports academic and professional advancement.
The Master of Foreign Service program emphasizes building strong connections with industry leaders through:
- Various internship opportunities
- Partnerships with organizations in Washington, D.C. and beyond
These connections provide invaluable hands-on experience and often lead to job placements post-graduation. Alumni of the program work across various sectors, including:
- The United Nations
- The U.S. State Department
- Major non-profit organizations
This demonstrates the program's effectiveness in fostering career success.
The Master of Foreign Service program at Georgetown University offers several highlights, including:
- A prestigious program with a strong reputation among international students, ensuring a diverse and vibrant community.
- Access to renowned faculty members who are leaders in their fields, providing unparalleled guidance and mentorship.
- State-of-the-art research facilities and resources for cutting-edge research work.
- Extensive career services and excellent job placement programs connecting students with top organizations.
- Engagement in various extracurricular activities and clubs focused on international relations, enhancing networking opportunities.
Students in the Master of Foreign Service program will develop essential skills that include:
- Critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for assessing complex international issues.
- Practical skills for navigating international landscapes effectively.
- Expertise in foreign policy, international economics, and global governance.
- Research skills through collaboration with faculty and independent studies.
These skills are crucial for a successful career in international affairs, diplomacy, and global policy.
The Master of Foreign Service program at Georgetown University cultivates a strong sense of global citizenship and responsibility among its students. This is achieved through:
- A comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes the dynamics of international relations.
- Engagement in research that addresses pressing global issues.
- Opportunities for real-world experience through internships and networking.
Graduates emerge as leaders equipped to tackle the challenges of an increasingly interconnected world, ready to contribute positively to global society.
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