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Preparing Students to Address Complex Global Challenges
In an increasingly interconnected world, Loyola’s MA in International Affairs program is providing students with the advanced knowledge needed to develop innovative solutions to complex global challenges. Learn more about how this flexible, interdisciplinary program allows students to align their studies with their unique interests and career goals in this Q&A with Program Director Dr. Tofigh Maboudi:
Tell me a bit about the field of International Affairs. How does Loyola’s program distinguish itself from other programs in the field?
Loyola’s International Affairs program allows students to study interconnected global challenges through an interdisciplinary lens. One of the really unique aspects of our program is its breadth. The program makes use of eight different departments and programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, as well as four other participating colleges, including the School of Communication, Quinlan School of Business, School of Social Work, and the Law School.
This approach is really unique––when I compare us to similar programs at other schools, they either don't have that kind of collaboration across so many different disciplines, or they have a very strict curriculum. Our goal is to give students the flexibility to tailor their degree so that it fits their own individual interests and goals.
Can you describe your approach to advising students, and how you tailor their curriculum to align with their individual interests and career goals?
Before starting the program, I always ask newly admitted students to meet and talk with me about what they're interested in, what their career goals are, where they would like to work after graduation, and if they want to continue into a PhD program. Based on that, I’ll sit with them and look at all the courses offered across the five participating colleges and then tailor a specific curriculum for them to take. While this approach can be challenging, it’s a fruitful challenge because this interdisciplinary perspective gives students a competitive advantage when they enter the job market.
How would you describe the academic and professional background of a typical student?
Our student body is very mixed. We have some full-time students and some who are working professionals. Most of our classes are offered in either the evening or late afternoons, although that can vary since we are engaged with many different schools and departments. Because this is an interdisciplinary program, we have students who are coming from all kinds of academic backgrounds. The only prerequisite is that students need to have at least 24 credit hours of undergraduate classes in political science or another related field, such as history, sociology, law, environmental sustainability, urban affairs, or other similar topics.
Can you explain the different capstone options available to students in your program and how each option caters to their specific academic and career goals?
We provide students with four options for their capstone. The first is the thesis, which is a good option for students who are interested in going into a PhD program because it gives them in-depth experience in doing independent research. The second option is a directed reading, which allows students to complete readings and assignments on a topic that we might not offer classes on over the course of a semester. These first two options are our more academic and research-oriented options.
The third option is study abroad. Every semester we offer Loyola faculty-sponsored classes in different places in the world, which is important because we don’t want our students to finish their degree without having been outside of the United States. The last option is an internship or hands-on work experience, which is for students who are interested in going right into the job market and want to gain experience in an area they’re passionate about.
What advice would you have for prospective students considering this program?
First, I would say contact me if you have any questions. We want our students to be focused, so I recommend they meet with me before even applying so we can discuss their interests and what to expect from the program. I would also recommend that students apply early. We have a limited number of scholarships we offer every year for students who apply for the fall admission, but we only consider applicants who have fully submitted their application and supporting materials by the January 15th deadline.
To learn more about Loyola’s MA in International Affairs program, visit our website or contact graduate program director Tofigh Maboudi with questions.
