About PhD Program,
The world and Maxwell are waiting for changemakers like you. Are you ready to join us?
We prepare graduates to lead effectively in international contexts and for successful careers in international relations, community and economic development, and security and intelligence across the public, private and nonprofit sectors.
We seek applicants who show an understanding of the professional nature of the field with clearly identified career goals that are aligned with the program’s mission, as well as a demonstrated ability to handle graduate-level coursework.
PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
There are no strict cutoffs or minimums or maximums when it comes to GPA. However, on average, our students have a cumulative GPA of 3.5.
The GRE is no longer required for admission to any of our department’s master’s programs.
- Examples of prior foreign language study or international experience in a language other than English are preferred. In order to graduate, M.A. in international relations students must demonstrate proficiency in a second language. Students who enter the program without sufficient language skills must complete this requirement during their studies.
- Relevant internships or post-undergraduate work experience should demonstrate a public service ethos and appreciation of the Maxwell School’s mission to prepare graduates to contribute to the public good in all levels of government, nonprofits, NGOs and the private sector.
- Undergraduate coursework should demonstrate strong academic ability and potential to succeed in a rigorous graduate curriculum. Students from a range of undergraduate majors/programs are welcomed to apply to the interdisciplinary M.A. in international relations.
- Application should demonstrate a clear understanding of the applicant’s career goals as they relate to this field of study.
PhD Funding Coverage,
The FAFSA allows graduate and professional students to be considered for need-based federal student loans and private educational loans. You should file the FAFSA as early as possible during the application process. Once filed, the Syracuse University Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs will contact you about loan approvals and procedures.
The Maxwell School offers a significant number of merit-based scholarships and fellowships every year. While the typical scholarships simply require applicants to express interest in financial support on the application, some fellowships require additional application materials.
Application Requirement,
- Application and $75 application fee:
In some cases, the application fee can be waived. See application fee waiver details. - Personal statement
- Résumé
- Transcripts:
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts are acceptable at the time of application. Official transcripts will be required prior to enrollment. - Letters of recommendation:
Two (2) letters of recommendation from a current or previous faculty member or professional supervisor. - English Proficiency Exam (international students only):
TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, or the Cambridge English Assessment. - Foreign language statement:
A brief statement explaining how you will fulfill the foreign language requirement of the degree. Examples include native speaking of a non-English language, planning to take future coursework at Syracuse or a community college, four semesters of study at the collegiate level, etc.
Application Deadline,
Jan 15, 2025
Application Fee,
Application and $75 application fee:
