International Policy and Practice Master’s Degree

Accelerated Master's Program for Mid-Career Professionals

Make a greater impact, take on advanced leadership roles, or forge a new career path with an accelerated Master of International Policy and Practice (MIPP) degree from the Elliott School of International Affairs at the George Washington University. In 27 credits, the on-campus and online programs allow you to join a unique forum of scholars and practitioners engaged in addressing the most important issues of our time. MIPP students also receive unparalleled access to key policymakers, government agencies, and an alumni network that spans the globe.

Three Cornerstones for Effective Global Policy-making

Essential, Advanced Skills for Success

 

Study International Relations, Executive Leadership, and Policy Design all in one Accelerated Degree!

Is MIPP Your Best Master's Degree Option?

Compare the online and on-campus programs, see how to specialize your degree, and view a snapshot of current students and employers in the MIPP Program Preview. Request information through the Custom Viewbook.

Create a Specialization to Meet Your Goals

The MIPP program allows students to select courses to form a specialization that fits their career goals and interests. Both the online and on-campus programs include:

• A total of 27 credit hours: 3 required core courses and 18 hours of elective credit
• Elective credits can be selected to form a cohesive specialization
• Such possible specialization areas include: Security, Development, Data Analysis, Area studies, and more. 
• Please refer to course offerings both on-campus and online to select from feasible options to fit your needs.

Admission Qualifications and How to Apply

The MIPP program is designed for mid-career professionals and active-duty military personnel who have:

• Seven years of relevant professional working experience, not including internships, or a prior advanced degree from an accredited institution of higher learning
• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution

Are you ready to advance your career, broaden your impact, and transform your leadership? Review the admission steps and begin your application now.

On-campus, Online, and Around the World

The MIPP accommodates full-time or part-time study from anywhere in the world and will fit the needs of your schedule and budget. The online courses are all developed specifically for an exceptional digital learning experience by professors and expert instructional designers. The on-campus program option opens up even more elective course options and hands-on opportunities in the heart of Washington, D.C. Short-term study abroad courses provide a memorable chance to really connect with your peers and faculty through impactful learning experiences in exciting locations around the globe.

 The MIPP Student Experience

On-campus, you will combine rigorous academic training with the development of valuable career-enhancing skills. Students can take advantage of the Elliott School's robust course offerings and ideal location in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C.

In the online program, you will engage in a rigorous curriculum via live classroom sessions and independent coursework. Students also collaborate with peers outside of class, have access to one-on-one sessions with faculty through virtual office hours, and are fully integrated with the career services, events, and networks of the Elliott School.

Flexible to Fit Your Priorities

Adaptable for Your Interests

• The MIPP program is flexible by design to accommodate the competing priorities of busy professionals.
• Choose from part-time and full-time options with the MIPP program.
• Complete the program online, on-campus through evening classes, or with a mix of course format offerings.
• Take advantage of short-term study abroad opportunities such as our recent course in Cairo that focused on state institutions.
• Attend any of the 300+ networking and educational events that the Elliott School sponsors each year, either in person or through a digital connection.
• Take a leave of absence in the program without losing ground if your personal or professional priorities shift.

Access to Our Exceptional Faculty and their Networks

With online classes capped at 15 students, and on-campus classes capped at 20, you will experience personalized instruction and the opportunities to create one-on-one connections with your instructors. In addition to benefiting from their mentorship and real-world experience, you will also have access to career-changing introductions and connections in Washington, D.C. and the growing global network of our MIPP faculty, students, and alumni.

Your faculty in the MIPP program include academic research experts and real-world policy practitioners and leaders from institutions like USAID, the US Department of State, and the World Bank. The outstanding global reputation of the Elliott School faculty members is why they continue to be go-to expert resources for policymakers and journalists alike.

More than half of our faculty served in government or international organizations, and their excellence in research, publication, and experience sets them apart in an elite field. Learn more about our distinguished faculty, their achievements, and the many ways they work to benefit our students' careers.

Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

MIPP is committed to serving active duty military and veterans, students with disabilities, and international students.

All of our online courses are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and include closed-captioning for the deaf or hard of hearing. Access our disability support services (DSS).

To receive more information on military and veteran student services, visit the Military and Veteran Services website.

Information for international students can be accessed through GW's International Services Office.

Paying for Graduate School

Discover a wide array of options to help you afford the degree you need as you invest in your future. Explore fellowships, loans, veteran's benefits, and other funding options.

Career Services to Help You Succeed

You'll be able to access career services designed specifically for Elliott School graduate students. These extensive resources include:

• Individual career coaching appointments for career guidance, networking tips, advice on salary negotiations, cognitive assessments, and much more. Sessions are offered in-person, over the phone, or via WebEx.
• Access to our exclusive online career database for Elliott School graduate students and alumni that includes job opportunities, internships, and co-op listings with more than 9,000 employers.
• Invitations to networking panels, alumni networking, and other programs throughout the year that will help you find the perfect opportunity for advancement or career development.

Contact Us

The graduate admissions counselors are some of the exceptional resources available to you through the Elliott School of International Affairs. Contact us directly with your requests or questions about the MIPP program. We’ll help you explore the benefits, align this opportunity with your career goals, or compare the MIPP degree with our other master’s programs in international affairs.