Current and Prospective Students
The Master of International Studies combines a core curriculum with a 15-hour regional, topical, professional, or technical specialization, such as environment and sustainable development, economic development, East Asia, Europe, public administration, or forestry, to name just a few options. The MIS is designed to be a terminal, professional degree. Upon graduation, most students move into jobs in government service, non-profit management, student services in higher education (international students, study abroad), and the private sector.
Those interested in a research-oriented degree for doctoral studies may choose to look elsewhere for a program that better fits this need.
The strength of the program is its diversity of faculty from many different disciplines and small class size. In most classes, students are able to interact closely with faculty and fellow students in a seminar format that provides an excellent environment for the exchange of ideas. The richness of the student body from many countries around the world enhances this interaction. In addition, students may take courses at other univerisities in the area, including UNC-Chapel Hill and Duke, through inter-institutional registration
Students should identify a faculty advisor by their second semester in the program. This person should be an expert in your area of specialization and can help you select courses that will best serve your interests. Our faculty are all eligible to serve in this capacity.