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Master of Arts in Global & International Studies

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News & Events
MAG&IS brochure Download our informational brochure on the Master of Arts Program

TESTIMONIALS

"The success of the MA program in Global & International Studies is largely a reflection of the work of its core and visiting faculty - a collection of unusually talented scholars whose backgrounds and teaching skills make the academic experience at UCSB unequivocally excellent."
- Amanda Chen, MA Candidate '08

"The faculty of this program understands the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders for a world that will be new politically, culturally, and technologically. Student diversity in our classes with students from China to Iran, Kosova to Guam, and the most excellent team of professors  determined to support future leaders to make the world a safer,  better, and more familiar place to live in has made this academic year the most exciting and fulfilling year in my life."
Flora Ferati, MA Candidate '08

"The dedication and involvement of the professors is really quite astounding - I've never felt there was any problem, academic or otherwise, I could not approach them with. This dedication also transfers into their ability to combine more theoretical/academic teachings with pragmatic/practical case studies."
- Dan Fibiger,, MA Candidate '08

"One of the most significant features of this program is the variety of courses that are being offered and taught by distinguished professors.  No matter what educational and cultural background you are affiliated with, you can effectively utilize it in the MAGIS program. "
- Samaneh Oladi Ghadikolaei, MA Candidate '08

MASTER OF ARTS PROGRAM
GENERAL BACKGROUND

The University of California at Santa Barbara offers a semi-professional Master of Arts in Global & International Studies. The two-year degree program, which was launched in the fall of 2007, currently admits approximately 15 students each year.  This summer, the program will move to the second floor of the new Social Sciences and Media Studies building.  For future students, the online application for the 2010-11 academic year will be available in September.

As its name suggests, Global & International Studies focuses on those global processes, interactions and flows that are today challenging historical patterns of international relations. The program is thus situated within the debate over whether the world is in an epochal transitional stage, increasingly formed by interacting economic, political, and cultural forces, or continues to be shaped primarily by the interplay of nation-states.

The M.A. degree is designed for those who wish to deepen their understanding of these processes.  While most students pursue this degree as preparation for possible international careers in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), some may choose to work in businesses or government, and others may seek a Ph.D. in a related social science or humanities field.  The M.A. degree is intended to provide an understanding of the economic, political, social, and cultural forces that are shaping global organizations. While not providing extensive practical training for specific professions, the program will through a six-month internship and/or study abroad requirement, policy and training seminars, and a variety of “hands-on” activities enable its graduates to meet the intellectual as well as practical challenges facing those who serve in the growing “third sector” of non-profit, non-governmental civil society organizations.

In the last ten years, the number of officially registered international NGOs increased by one-third, to more than 13,000. Governments are increasingly channeling assistance through these organizations, which in many countries are among the fastest growing employment sectors. Whether it be tsunami relief in Southeast Asia, hurricane relief in New Orleans, or medical assistance in African communities ravaged by AIDS, NGOs now play a critical role in responding to global crises. During a time of political polarization, this vital sector of civil society is playing an ever-more important role in world affairs.

The MA program was made possible through the generosity of Paul Orfalea and the Orfalea Family Foundation. Their support establishes the Orfalea Center for Global & International Studies, whose mission is to promote and advance global and international studies at UCSB, and which sponsors interdisciplinary conferences, seminars, and public programs as well as funding for the new MA program. Their gift enhances the MA program through student fellowships and internships, visiting professorships, and staff.

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