Become a Global Changemaker with an MS in Global Affairs

An MS in Global Affairs includes numerous interconnected disciplines and concentrations, including transnational security, cyber intelligence, global risk, international law, governance, peacebuilding, conflict resolution, gender, economics, development, the environment, energy, and human rights.

MS in Global Affairs equips you with the skills, networks, and hands-on experience to tackle urgent global challenges. You’ll step directly into roles in diplomacy and multilateral leadership, security and intelligence, corporate strategy and risk advisory, and nonprofit or humanitarian action. With real-world consulting practica, field intensives, and bespoke career coaching, you graduate both credentialed and proven. Your degree becomes the launchpad for a high-impact career across governments, NGOs, think tanks, and global businesses.

The 42-credit MS in Global Affairs prepares students for jobs across the global public, private, and non-profit sectors. The MSGA curriculum provides the global insight and contextual perspectives of international affairs that are needed to become a well-rounded professional in the global arena.

The 36-credit MS in Global Security, Conflict, and Cyber Crime (MSGSCC) is a STEM graduate degree that provides a unique perspective and a competitive advantage by focusing on cyber conflict through the lens of the social sciences. The program prepares students to enter the fast-changing world of international security. It explores the fields of cyber espionage, cyber criminology, cyber warfare, and intelligence analysis, affording them the opportunity to gain a deep understanding of cyber security policy, while acquiring the skills to develop and execute cyber security and risk management strategies.

Many of our alums work for non-governmental organizations in the fields of human rights, refugee relief, child health, and welfare, advocacy international development, or foreign affairs. Other graduates work in government, including the US Departments of Homeland Security, State or Defense, the FBI, a mission to the UN, or a multilateral agency. The private sector also attracts graduates for international business, economic development, and data analysis roles.

NYU SPS’s MS in Global Affairs delivers a career-focused, hands-on education that sets it apart from the MA in International Relations:

• Applied Learning, Day One: Eight interdisciplinary concentrations and four specializations mean you’re not just studying theory—you’re developing marketable expertise in areas like resource security, AI and governance, digital diplomacy, and global justice and much more.

• Global Field Intensives & Consulting Practicum: Travel to critical regions, partner with real clients (from startups to UN Directorates), and solve live challenges—building a portfolio of work that speaks for itself.

• Deep Employer Connections: Embedded internships and capstone projects with the State Department, major NGOs, financial institutions, and innovation hubs ensure you graduate with a network and track record that recruiters value.

• NYC Advantage: Based steps from the United Nations, Wall Street, and leading tech incubators, you’ll learn from—and alongside—practitioners who shape global policy and markets.

• Bespoke Career Coaching: From resume clinics to top-tier recruiting events, our Career Accelerator sharpens your strategic edge and positions you for leadership roles across government, business, and the nonprofit sector.

MSGA provides career-launching experiences.

The MS in Global Affairs is a 42-credit program that offers full- and part-time study options. It can be completed in as little as 16 months of full-time study.

Yes. We recognize that getting a graduate degree is a big investment. We do our best to help students manage the cost of a graduate education. For more information, please reach out to Financial Aid.

Yes. Our faculty, graduate advisors, and the team at the NYU SPS Wasserman Center for Career Development are your partners in facilitating internships and career opportunities.

No. Prior work experience is not required for applying to our master's programs.

No, the GRE is not required but you are welcome to submit your score as part of your application.