Fields of concentration
Concentrations allow you to fine-tune your GPIS degree, providing flexibility and focus in your studies.
Choose from an array of concentrations to fine-tune your International Studies degree.
Check the admission standards and apply today to get started on your own GPIS degree.
Among the virtues of U.S. Foreign Policy and International Relations as a field of concentration is its multi-faceted approach. By its very nature, the study of this field requires that students develop a thorough understanding of all of the concepts and conditions that serve as key components in the making of foreign policy. These factors include --but need not be limited to-- economic, cultural, and political considerations.
During the past decade, international security studies have undergone rapid transformation. No longer beholden to the study of East-West competition, the security field has become increasingly diverse regarding the themes and issues it embraces as well as the community of scholars it involves. As a result, many intellectual foundations have been questioned and the field has been opened to a variety of innovations.
Political decisions clearly influence economic outcomes. States determine the nature and distribution of property rights as well as the rules governing the production and distribution of wealth. At the same time, economic forces influence political behavior. Markets shape the distribution of power, policy choices and the institutions of governance.
The 20th century has witnessed profound global change. The proliferation of connections among states, regions and non-state actors, and critical issue areas and global processes has altered core elements of world affairs. In particular, the acceleration of global interdependence and transnationalism since World War II has forced a virtual re-thinking of such fundamental issues as sovereignty, autonomy, power, global stability, global order and governance, ethics and identity.
The Comparative and Regional Studies Track is designed to help students understand and analyze socio-political phenomena cross-culturally and cross-nationally. This track is built upon two distinct yet closely related intellectual dimensions. One is a thematic dimension that deals with major socio-political issues that are common across national borders and cultures. Such issues include democratization, political violence, regime legitimacy, political change, economic reform, political participation, institutional formation and so on, all of which can be better understood through comparative study.
Strategy and Policy Studies Certificate
GPIS students have the opportunity to earn a Certificate in the History of Strategy and Policy. This program, created by Adm. Stansfield Turner, is designed for members of the armed forces and those interested in past and present decision-making processes. The program concentrates on analyzing decisions made by major leaders and works by prominent theoreticians.
For more information, please see the Certificate in the History of Strategy and Policy Program.
