MA in International Relations & Religion at Boston University

The innovative MA in International Relations & Religion (IRRN) prepares students to pursue careers in policy analysis and conflict resolution as well as to work with national governments and a wide range of IGOs and NGOs. The two-year program emphasizes both the intellectual and policy aspects of the role of religion in international relations. Students develop a practical understanding of major religious actors, in-depth knowledge of a specific religious tradition, and a theoretical grasp of the relevance of religious ideas and actors for contemporary international affairs.

The program includes core coursework that covers the fundamentals of IR theory, methodological training in approaches to the study of religion and IR, and the role(s) of religion in modern politics. In addition to the core classes, students choose both an IR and a religious tradition track, allowing them to develop in-depth knowledge in their chosen specialties, and write a capstone MA paper. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in international relations, political science, theology, or religion; related disciplines such as history, sociology, anthropology, and economics also provide useful background. Students and public policy professionals working in the areas of conflict resolution, peace-building, peace studies, and mass media are also encouraged to apply.