Program Overview

Master of Arts in International Affairs

The Master of Arts in International Affairs (MAIA) Professional Program at California State University, Long Beach is designed to prepare leaders for a changing world by providing the skills that employers demand for the global workforce of the 21st century.

Degree Program

The MAIA program combines interdisciplinary, policy-oriented, intercultural, and global studies with career development. Through a cohort design, students attain both the international and project management skills employers demand for the global workforce of the 21st century. This 18-month program includes 12 months in residence, followed by a carefully placed internship with courses taken in residence or online.

Program Outline

The program requires 33 units of approved graduate courses with a 3.0 GPA or better. The curriculum includes:

• Six required core courses:
  1. MAIA 600 - International Affairs Cornerstone
  2. MAIA 610 - International Economics
  3. MAIA 620 - International Politics
  4. MAIA 630 - Policy Making Process
  5. MAIA 640 - Scope and Methods of International Affairs
  6. MAIA 650 - Project Management
• Track options (choose one):
  • International Development and Non-Profit Management
    1. MAIA 605 - International Economic Development
    2. MAIA 615 - Management of Nonprofit Organizations
    3. MAIA 625 - Applied International Development
  • Migration and Immigration Advocacy
    1. MAIA 635 - Global Trends in International Migration
    2. MAIA 645 - Labor Migration
    3. MAIA 655 - Citizenship and Immigration Law
• Additional requirements:
  1. MAIA 698 - Capstone Project
  2. MAIA 660 - Budgets

Admission Requirements

Admission decisions are based on consideration of the applicant's previous academic record, statement of purpose, resume, and letters of recommendation. Requirements include:

• A bachelor's degree in a social science, language, or related field from a regionally accredited university
• A minimum GPA of 2.7 in the last 60 semester units attempted, and good standing at the last college attended
• A statement of purpose
• A recent resume
• Two letters of recommendation
• International applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency

How to Apply

Admission to the MAIA degree program requires approval by the University and the program's Graduate Applicant Review Committee. Applicants must apply using the California State University admissions portal, Cal State Apply.

Tuition and Fees

• Cost per unit: $515
• Cost per 3-unit course: $1,545
• Total cost of the program: $16,995

Financial Aid

Students enrolled in this program are eligible for some forms of financial aid, with the exception of the State University Grant (SUG) and Cal Vet College Fee Waiver. GI Bill benefits can be used for this program.

Instructors

The MAIA program features a diverse range of instructors with expertise in various fields, including international economics, politics, development, and migration.

Coverdell Fellowship for Returned Peace Corps Volunteers

The MAIA program is a Coverdell Fellows partner, providing educational and professional opportunities for Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) who are pursuing graduate studies. The program offers meaningful financial support, a U.S.-based service internship, and guided pathways to public service careers.