Degree Requirements

The Juris Doctor/Master of Arts in International Relations is a combined degree which is conferred by the International Relations program of the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and the College of Law. This joint degree program offers students a unique opportunity in developing the knowledge and skills necessary to enter into a career in the international field, including a basic social science understanding of international relations as well as contemporary features of international affairs. The student may specialize in a specific area of interest such as Global Markets, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Global Development Policy, Global Security, Transnational Organizations and Leadership, and Foreign Policy.

Students must apply and be admitted to both programs separately and will complete the entire first year in the College of Law prior to their admission to the Master of Arts in International Relations.

In three years, students complete the core requirements for both the Juris Doctor and Master of Arts in International Relations degree, beginning their dual studies between their 1L and 2L years. In addition to the core, students complete specialized coursework in one of the following five international relations career tracks; international economics, finance and trade; peace, security and conflict; governance, diplomacy and international organizations; democracy, development and humanitarian assistance; and regional concentrations in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East.

Students also complete an applied internship opportunities linking academic studies in law and international relations with the professional practice of international relations.

Questions and inquiries may be addressed to Christine Omlino,Director, Admissions and Financial Aid, Department of Public Administration and International Affairs, 215 Eggers Hall, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs (443-4000; comolino@syr.edu).  Students with general questions and inquiries concerning procedures regarding joint degrees should contact Courtney Abbott Hill, Associate Director for Student Life, Suite 220 College of Law (443-1146, cabbotth@law.syr.edu).