About the Program
The M.S. in Foreign Service (MSFS) seeks to educate and equip the next generation of international affairs leaders. Through a rigorous curriculum of historical, political, social, cultural, and economic studies, MSFS challenges students to both understand theory and history and apply their knowledge to bring impactful change. We do this while also instilling a commitment to service in the international community and an appreciation for the ethical dimension of international affairs.
Connect with Us
Program Contact: Ryan Arey – msfsinfo@georgetown.edu
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Degrees Offered
- M.S.
Accelerated programs (Georgetown students only)
- B.S.B.A./M.S.
- B.S.F.S./M.S.
Joint programs
- M.S./M.A.
- M.S./MBA
- M.S./MPP
- M.S./J.D.
Admissions Requirements
For general graduate admissions requirements, visit the Office of Graduate Admission’s Application Information page. Review the program’s website for additional information on program application requirements.
Application Materials required:
- Application Form
- Non-Refundable Application Fee
- Academic Statement of Purpose
- Statement on Diversity, Personal Background & Contributions (optional)
- Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
- Transcripts: Applicants are required to upload to the application system copies of official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Visit the Office of Graduate Admission’s Application Information page for additional details and FAQs.
- Resume/CV
- Supplemental Data – Foreign Language Skills
- Video Statement (optional)
- GRE (optional)
- TOEFL/IELTS (if applicable)
- TOEFL = 100 minimum
- IELTS = 7.0 minimum
Application Deadlines
Fall
- January 15 (priority)
- April 1 (final)
Degree Requirements
The program requires two years of full-time study (12 credits per semester) in residence at Georgetown University (for 48 total semester hours) commencing in the fall of each year only. The first year combines a required and an elective curriculum. Offerings integrate the development of analytic and quantitative skills with advanced study in international politics, economics, history and electives in a selected field of concentration.
To fulfill the requirements of the MSFS program, a student must:
- Maintain a 3.0 average on a 4.0 scale.
- Pass a required curriculum of 18 semester hours.
- Pass an elective curriculum of 30 semester hours.
- Demonstrate proficiency in at least one modern foreign language — language proficiency is an essential skill for the professional in international affairs and is a requirement for graduation. Emphasis is placed on development of oral communication skills as well as on reading and writing ability. Because language classes do not count as electives toward the master’s degree, students must have an adequate level of proficiency upon admissions application. Placement tests are required upon entrance to the program.
- Pass an oral examination consisting of a brief presentation analyzing a current international issue and an additional period of questions by a three-member panel of faculty and foreign affairs practitioners.
- Intern for at least one internationally-oriented organization in the public, private or non-profit sectors.