University of Kansas

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary master’s combines theoretical and applied approaches to the study of globalization. Core coursework typically covers:

• Theories of Globalization: classical and contemporary frameworks for understanding global integration and inequality.
• Global Political Economy: trade, finance, development policy and the role of states and markets in a globalised world.
• International Institutions and Governance: global governance, transnational regulatory regimes and international law.
• Culture, Media and Transnationalism: cultural flows, migration, diasporas and global communication networks.
• Environmental and Development Issues: global environmental politics, sustainable development and the politics of climate change.
• Research Methods and Data Analysis: qualitative and quantitative methods for social-science research on global issues.
• Regional and Thematic Electives: in-depth study of regions (e.g. Latin America, Africa, Asia) and thematic topics such as human rights, security, trade or migration.

Students complete a combination of coursework and a substantial capstone requirement. Depending on the pathway chosen, the capstone may be a supervised research thesis, a practicum or an applied project with a community or policy partner. The programme emphasises close faculty supervision, interdisciplinary seminars and opportunities for internships and study-abroad components through the university’s international links.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline such as international relations, political science, economics, sociology, anthropology or a related field. Typical application materials include:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose describing academic interests and career goals.
• Two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé summarising relevant education and work experience.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests include TOEFL or IELTS or equivalent).

Some applicants with relevant professional experience may be considered even if their undergraduate degree is in another field. The programme’s admissions committee will review the overall strength of an application; standardized tests (such as the GRE) are subject to departmental policy and may not be required for all applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a variety of careers across the public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include:

• Policy analyst or researcher for government departments, parliaments or international organisations.
• Programme officer, project manager or specialist roles in NGOs and international development agencies.
• Roles in diplomacy, consular services or multilateral institutions.
• Corporate positions in international business, trade compliance, corporate social responsibility or global market analysis.
• Research and teaching roles or progression to doctoral study in global studies, political science or related fields.

The University of Kansas provides career services, internship placement support and employer links that help students move into roles that match their interests and skills.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers this programme within a strong interdisciplinary environment, drawing on faculty from international relations, anthropology, geography, political science and economics. The Centre for Global & International Studies and related research centres provide seminar series, visiting scholars and networking opportunities.

Students benefit from personalised supervision in a mid-sized research university setting, access to extensive library and digital resources, and co-curricular opportunities such as language training, study abroad and internships. The campus community in Lawrence provides a collegial setting for study while the university’s national and international partnerships create practical links for research and career development.