CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

This programme integrates core international relations theory with courses in national and homeland security, intelligence fundamentals, and international law. Typical modules cover subjects such as IR theory, comparative politics, US foreign policy, diplomacy and negotiation, international organisations, terrorism and counterterrorism, cybersecurity and information security, intelligence analysis, international political economy, and region-focused seminars (for example, Latin America, Europe, East Asia or the Middle East).

Students also take methodological and practical courses in research methods, statistics for social sciences, policy analysis, and ethics. The curriculum commonly includes a capstone seminar or senior thesis in which students produce a sustained research project, and many programmes encourage or require an internship with government agencies, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks or private-sector security firms to develop applied skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent and demonstrate a strong academic record in social studies, history, or related subjects. Admissions typically consider transcripts, a personal statement or essay articulating interest in international affairs and security, and letters of recommendation. Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be optional at some CUNY colleges; applicants should check the specific campus admissions policies.

Transfer applicants are evaluated on college coursework and GPA, with consideration given to completed courses in political science, history, economics or statistics. International students must demonstrate English-language proficiency through recognised tests or prior education in English. Some campuses may recommend or require an interview for applicants focused on national security concentrations.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in government and public service (federal, state and local), intelligence and homeland security, diplomacy and foreign service, and international organisations. Other typical paths include policy analysis and research at think tanks, roles in non-governmental organisations and humanitarian agencies, security consulting, risk analysis for private-sector firms, journalism and international reporting, and continued study in graduate programmes such as international relations, security studies, public policy or law.

The programme’s emphasis on internships and applied research helps students build professional networks in New York City and beyond, making them competitive for entry-level analyst positions, legislative staff roles, programme coordination in NGOs, and management-track roles in private security and consulting firms.

Why study at CUNY(The City University of New York)

CUNY provides access to New York City’s unparalleled concentration of diplomatic missions, UN agencies, NGOs, media outlets and federal offices, offering rich internship and networking opportunities for students of international relations and national security. The university system’s member colleges host faculty with diverse expertise in security, foreign policy, and regional studies, and many programmes emphasise hands-on learning through practicum courses and connections with local policy institutions.

Students benefit from CUNY’s urban campus settings, career services across the system, and opportunities to take courses or participate in events at different CUNY colleges to broaden their academic and professional experience. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach and proximity to policy hubs make it well-suited for students seeking both theoretical foundations and practical pathways into international affairs and security careers.