School of International Affairs launches graduate certificate programs

As the world becomes more global, and the divide between first world and third world countries deepens, it needs more people with an understanding of international affairs, and cultural and political savvy. With this in mind, the Penn State School of International Affairs now offers three different graduate and post-baccalaureate certificates. Designed for professionals looking to continue their education at the graduate level, the certificate programs are taught by SIA’s expert faculty or leading researchers and experienced former diplomats and government officials.

These 15-credit certificates offer the opportunity to study several different areas within the field of international affairs, and, while the programs stand on their own, providing a solid education in their focus areas, the credits earned can later be applied in Penn State’s Master of International Affairs degree program, if desired. A Penn State graduate certificate is a respected stand-alone credential, and can provide a means to further your career, increase professional development, or explore a career change.

“In an age where we can easily communicate and travel all over the world, we need to have an understanding of different political cultures and how they communicate,” said Sophia McClennen, professor of international affairs and comparative literature and faculty director for recruiting and admissions. “This certificate provides the required knowledge and skills to introduce students to international affairs and public policy.”

SIA offers three graduate certificates, and students can choose to earn all three certificates.

The International Affairs Certificate provides an accessible, professional education in the rapidly evolving field of international affairs. The program offers a blend of academic study, hands-on training, and professional development, and builds career options in international relations, public policy, intelligence, defense policy, military affairs, counterterrorism, and diplomacy, among others. Core courses include Global Cultures and Leadership, Foundations of Diplomacy and International Relations Theory.

In the International Development Policy Certificate, students study geopolitical, cultural, and legal aspects of international affairs pertaining specifically to economic development. It includes core course like International Economics: Principles, Policies and Practices, and Multi-sector and Quantitative Analysis.

The International Security Certificate offers study of geopolitical, cultural, and international law aspects of international affairs relating to global security dilemmas. Core courses in this program include Actors, Institutions, and Legal Frameworks in International Affairs, and Foundations of Diplomacy and International Relations Theory.

Visit the SIA Graduate Certificates webpage for more information on these three certificates, including credit and course requirements.