Online Master's in Global Affairs

Gain a practical understanding of foreign policy and international relations.

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

Complete the form below to learn more about our online programs and how to get started.

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At a Glance

The online MA in Global Affairs from OU Online equips students with a comprehensive international perspective on the political, economic, and social forces shaping global change. This dynamic program empowers graduates to deepen their understanding of global affairs, strengthen their ability to lead in complex international environments, and build meaningful global connections while gaining practical insights into foreign policy and international relations.

Students tailor their academic journey by choosing one of three focused concentrations: International Security Studies, Global Economics and Development, or Middle Eastern Studies.

100% Online

Time to Complete:

24+ Months

Credit Hours:

Time Commitment:

10 to 20 Hours Weekly

start dates

Fall, Spring

cost

The MA in Global Affairs delivers exceptional value by preparing students for top-tier leadership roles and higher earning potential in the global arena. This career-focused program builds the expertise and confidence needed to thrive in international affairs.

Tuition and fees for the program total $27,885, which breaks down to $845 per credit hour. Costs for books and additional materials are not included.

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

Complete the form below to learn more about our online programs and how to get started.

By submitting this form, l consent to the University of Oklahoma (OU) and its agents contacting me about educational opportunities via automated calls, text messages, and/or email at the number and email provided. Message and data rates may apply. Consent is not required to attend the OU or to receive information by other means. For details on how OU collects and protects your information, review the Privacy Policy.

About the Online Master of Arts in Global Affairs

The online MA in Global Affairs is a 33-credit-hour program that delivers a global perspective on the political, economic, and social forces driving international change. Students learn from expert faculty with deep experience in global affairs, including regions such as China and the Middle East.

A distinctive feature of the program is the education abroad experience, led by faculty with extensive regional expertise. This international trip offers immersive, hands-on learning essential for professionals pursuing global careers. Trips last 8 to 10 days, and all costs except airfare and meals are included in the program tuition.

The diplomacy lab practicum gives students the opportunity to tackle real-world global challenges both independently and collaboratively, building practical skills and professional confidence.

Students personalize their academic path by selecting one of three concentrations:

International Security Studies – ideal for students pursuing careers in foreign policy or national security
Global Economics and Development – provides the tools to analyze and address socioeconomic challenges in developing nations
Middle Eastern Studies – offers in-depth knowledge of the Middle East, including its history, culture, and politics, for students seeking regional expertise

Master of Arts in Global Affairs: Make a Global Impact

Earning an online MA in Global Affairs from the University of Oklahoma positions graduates for advancement across a wide range of global careers. This versatile degree opens doors in sectors where international expertise, strategic thinking, and cross-cultural communication are essential. Accelerate your career in areas such as:

Government – including the Department of Defense, Department of State, Homeland Security, and intelligence agencies
Journalism – covering international affairs, conflict, and global policy
Education – particularly teaching at the high school level with a global or social studies focus
Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs – preparing for roles in embassies, consulates, and international organizations

Nonprofit and NGO/INGO sectors – supporting global development, humanitarian aid, and policy advocacy
Business – especially in roles requiring geopolitical awareness and international strategy (note: this is not a business degree)
Military – advancing into leadership roles that require a master’s degree

Industry Insights

Professionals with expertise in global affairs are in demand across sectors that value international knowledge and policy analysis. While roles vary widely, many graduates pursue careers in diplomacy, intelligence, international development, and global security.

Median Pay: $70,000
Job Outlook: Employment in social science and related fields such as international relations, policy analysis, and global development is projected to grow steadily through 2033
Opportunities: Thousands of openings are expected annually in government, nonprofit, and international organizations

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Program Outcomes: Your Foundation for Global Leadership

OU’s online MA in Global Affairs meets the rising demand for professionals with the expertise to lead in today’s fast-changing global landscape. Through this program, students will:

Deepen their knowledge of global affairs
Strengthen their ability to interpret and analyze global dynamics
Enhance their capacity to lead in complex international environments
Expand their global network while gaining practical insights into foreign policy and international relations

Course Details

The MA in Global Affairs offers a comprehensive exploration of the forces shaping today’s international landscape. Students examine global turbulence, international law, transnational activism, and the political dynamics of key regions, including Latin America, the Middle East, China, and Europe.

*Students will choose an additional 12 hours of concentration electives, 9 hours of area studies electives, and 3 hours of education abroad experience.

Course Structure

You’ll earn 33 credit hours across 12 courses. Courses are a mix of asynchronous and synchronous content. You’ll take 2 to 3 courses each semester. Live sessions may be offered, but attendance is not required.

Courses in the Spring and Fall semesters run for 8 or 16 weeks, while courses in the Summer semester run for 4, 7, or 14 weeks. You can expect a time commitment of 12 to 15 hours a week if taking two classes at a time.

Global Political Turbulence

Credit Hours: 2

The Global Political Turbulence course explores the sources, consequences, and implications of turbulence in the international political system. It will examine political turbulence in a global context, as well as turbulent affairs in each region of the world. We will concentrate on the political turbulence that characterizes global affairs today and highlight turbulent relations in each region of the world.

Global Social Turbulence

Credit Hours: 2

This course examines the layered causes and consequences of social turbulence around the world. It explores how people interact with each other and the world around them. Additionally, students will address how people react to societal and environmental changes. At the end of this course, students should have a firmer grasp on societal interaction and reaction in a number of important areas.

Global Social Turbulence

Credit Hours: 2

This course explores sources of turbulence in the global economy and their consequences – from the increasing global diffusion of economic power to the volatility produced by free movement of large amounts of capital around the world. We will begin by examining shifts in the global distribution of economic power. We also will consider the 2008-9 global financial crisis, the aftermath of which continues to have dramatic consequences across governments and international organizations worldwide.

Global Affairs Practicum

Credit Hours: 3

All students are expected to engage in a research project resulting in a written document that examines a specific government or international policy. The paper should ultimately propose specific policy recommendations that are intended to be an improvement upon the current policy. The project may be conducted under the auspices of the Diplomacy Lab.

Why Earn Your MA in Global Affairs at OU Online

OU Online delivers high-quality, affordable undergraduate and graduate programs designed for driven professionals who want flexibility without compromising excellence. As part of a top-tier public research university, the MA in Global Affairs program empowers students to thrive in the fast-moving world of international relations. With a curriculum built for real-world impact and a format that fits your life, you’ll gain global insight, strategic skills, and a professional edge to lead with confidence on the world stage.

Faculty Expertise

The MA in Global Affairs is built on the foundation of world-class University of Oklahoma faculty mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

Robust Student Support

OU Online offers robust student support services, including academic support, online tutoring, mental health counseling, and an online career development center. The program accommodates the needs of working professionals, allowing you to expand your technical skills while maintaining full-time employment.

Global Alumni Network

With more than 250,000 alumni across the world, becoming a Sooner means you’ll have access to a strong network of global affairs professionals to accelerate your career. As a Sooner, you’ll be part of a powerful network of leaders working in organizations across the world, helping you expand your career in global affairs.

Flexible Format

The MA in Global Affairs is delivered in a fully online, flexible format built for ambitious professionals around the world. Whether you’re managing a full-time job, family responsibilities, or both, this program fits your life without compromising quality. Earn your degree in as little as 24 months while gaining specialized global expertise that sets you apart. Study from anywhere, on your schedule, and prepare to lead international affairs with confidence and credibility.

Tailored Experience

Move through the program as part of a small, purpose-driven cohort of professionals who share your passion for global affairs. This tight-knit learning community fosters meaningful connections, rich discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. You’ll engage directly with expert faculty and peers in dynamic online conversations that sharpen your thinking and expand your global perspective—preparing you to lead, collaborate, and thrive in international settings.

Cost & Financial Aid

Earning your MA in Global Affairs is a powerful investment in your future—and OU Online is committed to making that investment clear, affordable, and accessible.

Tuition is $845 per credit hour, totaling $27,885 for the full program. Please note that books and additional materials are not included in this cost.

Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance may be available to help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Our dedicated financial services team is here to support you every step of the way—so you can stay focused on advancing your education and career.

For questions about financial aid for your online program, contact the Online Aid office at onlineaid@ou.edu or call 405-325-2929.

A nonrefundable deposit of $350 is required upon admission to secure your place in the program. This deposit guarantees your spot in your first semester of courses and will be applied toward your first semester’s tuition.

* Please be aware that tuition and fees may change, as determined by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

Transfer Credit

This program accepts a maximum of 6 transfer credit hours. Courses cannot have been used toward the completion of any degree. Transfer credit must have a grade of A or B and be no more than 5 years old at the time of your graduation from the Global Affairs program.

Take the Next Step

Admission to the online MA in Global Affairs program is selective. Those interested in the program should have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a competitive undergraduate GPA. Additional admissions factors may include:

Work or service experience
Demonstrated leadership potential
Exceptional talents, skills, or trends
Academic and undergraduate school performance improvement

To apply, students must:

Complete the online application at https://gograd.ou.edu/apply/
Submit a current resume or CV
Provide official college transcripts
Submit a personal statement
Valid TOEFL exam score report (for international students)

Application Timeline

The admissions committee reviews applications on a rolling basis, allowing you to apply when the time is right for you. While admissions may remain open until two weeks before classes begin, some programs may have earlier deadlines. Once your application is complete, the committee aims to provide a decision within two weeks—so you can plan your next steps with confidence. A nonrefundable deposit of $350 is required upon admission to secure your place in the program. This deposit guarantees your spot in your first semester of courses and will be applied toward your first semester's tuition.

Step 1

Contact an Enrollment Coach to discuss your qualifications and interest in the program.

Step 2

Complete the online application.

Step 3

Provide supplemental materials, including a resume, personal statement, and undergraduate transcripts.