Georgetown University

What you'll study

The STIA curriculum combines social science theory, empirical methods and focused study of the social, political and ethical impacts of science and technology. Core coursework typically covers comparative and international politics, economics, statistics and research methods, the history and philosophy of science and technology, and technology and public policy.

• Core modules: introductory international affairs, quantitative methods for social science, technology and society, ethics of science and technology, and a junior seminar in research design.
• Technical and applied modules: data analysis for social scientists, computational methods or GIS (depending on track), science and public policy, and laboratory- or project-based practicum options.
• Concentration/specialisation: students typically choose a regional or thematic concentration such as security and technology, global health and biotechnology, energy and environment, development and technology, or science & technology policy.
• Capstone: a senior capstone project or practicum integrates independent research, policy analysis or a substantial applied project often conducted in collaboration with faculty, a government agency, an NGO or an industry partner.
• Experiential learning: because Georgetown is in Washington, D.C., internships, policy externships, and placements with embassies, think tanks and regulatory bodies are commonly integrated into the degree pathway.

Entry requirements

Admission to Georgetown is competitive and evaluates academic preparation, extracurricular engagement, personal essays and recommendations. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong performance in a rigorous high-school programme, including coursework in mathematics and sciences, and show evidence of analytical, writing and research ability.

• Typical academic profile: strong grades in secondary school with advanced coursework where available (e.g. AP, IB or A-levels). Exact grade or test-score thresholds are not published here.
• Standardised tests: Georgetown's testing policies can change; applicants should consult the university for current guidance on SAT/ACT submissions.
• Supplementary materials: a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and for some applicants, interviews or a portfolio of related work (for example research or technology projects) may strengthen an application.
• International applicants: should meet the same academic standards and provide proof of English language proficiency where required; credential evaluation may be necessary for some qualifications.
• Transfers: transfer applicants are considered on the basis of college academic record, recommendations and fit with the STIA curriculum. Course equivalencies and credit transfer are assessed individually.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers at the intersection of technology, policy and international affairs. The degree's mix of analytical methods and domain knowledge opens pathways in public policy, government, diplomacy, international organisations, non-profit advocacy, and private-sector roles that require an understanding of regulatory and social implications of technology.

• Common roles: policy analyst, technology or regulatory analyst, programme officer at NGOs or international organisations, research analyst at think tanks, intelligence or security analyst, and roles in corporate public policy or compliance teams.
• Sector opportunities: government agencies, legislative bodies, international organisations, consultancies, technology firms, health and environmental organisations, and research institutions.
• Further study: many graduates pursue master’s degrees in public policy, international affairs, law, data science or specialised science and technology policy programmes.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown's location in Washington, D.C. gives STIA students direct access to policy-makers, international institutions and a wide range of internship opportunities that complement classroom learning. The programme is housed in a university with a strong international orientation and a Jesuit tradition that emphasises ethics, public service and global engagement.

• Faculty and networks: students learn from scholars with expertise in security, health, energy, and technology policy, and benefit from Georgetown's extensive alumni and practitioner networks in government, diplomacy and the non-profit sector.
• Interdisciplinary approach: the curriculum combines rigorous social-science methods with applied technical skills and ethical reflection, preparing students to analyse and shape technology policy in diverse settings.
• Professional development: career services, on-campus recruitment, practicum placements and the proximity to think tanks and federal agencies help translate academic work into career opportunities.