University of Washington, The Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies,
Master of Arts in Applied International Studies (MAAIS)

 

The Master of Arts in Applied International Studies (MAAIS) at the University of Washington’s Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies offers an applied orientation that blends the teaching of expert faculty with training and insights from experienced practitioners in international security, diplomacy, law, development, and business. Designed for professionals with at least five years of work experience, the program offers students a choice of electives in addition to three required core courses, an applied research client project, and a capstone crisis negotiation. Students also benefit from the proximity of leading multinational companies based in Seattle, such as Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, and Starbucks, as well as philanthropic organizations, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, major NGOs, and the area’s significant military presence.

“We want to prepare our graduates to work effectively at the intersections of the business, government, and nonprofit sectors,” says Jennifer Butte-Dahl, director of the MAAIS program. “In today’s world, the intersections are where we are seeing new, innovative solutions being built to solve the world’s most difficult challenges.”

The admissions process is holistic: “We seek to build a cohort rich with diverse personal and professional backgrounds. We look for individuals with a history of strong academic performance and solid work experience who will bring a significant and unique perspective to the program,” says Butte-Dahl.

Candidates’ essays are especially important. Although the program requires five years of work experience, the type of work is less crucial than candidates’ demonstration of maturity, ability to express themselves clearly in written form, and international perspective. International experience may come from working, traveling, or volunteering abroad, or from an internationally diverse background.

While the GRE is not required, some candidates report GRE scores. Those whose academic record does not fully reflect their potential may benefit from doing so.

Three letters of recommendation are required. “We encourage applicants to consider requesting recommendations from current or former employers, as well as former professors,” says Butte-Dahl. “Recommenders should be able to judge a student’s capacity to undertake graduate studies and should speak to the unique qualities the student will bring to the program.”

Students may complete the MAAIS program in 10 months or in two years. A third enrollment option runs from January to December.

The Jackson School also offers a two-year MA in International Studies, with nine program choices: China Studies; Japan Studies; Korean Studies; Middle East Studies; Russian, East European, and Central Asian Studies; South Asian Studies; Southeast Asian Studies; Comparative Religion; and general International Studies. In addition, the school offers a PhD program combining a cross-disciplinary approach with intensive area studies.

Master’s Degree Program Options:
• Master of Arts in Applied International Studies (MAAIS)
The Jackson School also offers the Master of Arts in International Studies (MAIS) with programs in China Studies; Japan Studies; Korean Studies; Middle East Studies; Russian, East European, and Central Asian Studies; South Asian Studies; Southeast Asian Studies; Comparative Religion; and general International Studies.

Application Deadlines:
• Winter 2018 enrollment – October 15, 2017
• Fall 2018 enrollment – Priority deadline, November 15, 2017. Standard deadline, January 31, 2018, rolling until June 1, 2017 (Candidates must apply by January 31 to be considered for a MAAIS Fellowship.)

Standardized Exam Scores: TOEFL required for nonnative English speakers
Recommendation Letters: Three required
Application Checklist: http://jsis.washington.edu/maais/admissions
Contact: Andrea Sadlier, Graduate Program Adviser
[email protected]; 206-221-8577

To receive school information, see request info.