Each of the degree programs has core requirements including policy analysis, international economics and advanced language combined with a unique set of analytical and international policy studies courses. A large number of electives permits each individual to further tailor the degree to meet specific professional objectives. These are clusters of courses that allow students to concentrate on a specific policy area. These specialized certificates add valuable depth to a graduate's resume. Area-specific courses taken as part of the second language studies sequence.
International issue courses in which students can apply area-specific knowledge.
For example, in taking a course or seminar in migration or refugees, students will use this opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of refugee problems and policies as they manifest themselves in a particular place within a specific cultural and historical context. The Area Specialization may be enhanced by including a capstone exercise, integrating the student's area and functional knowledge with an internship in the region of specialization - thereby enhancing the knowledge of language and culture of a specific country or region by working in that specific country and using a second language.