Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises comparative and interdisciplinary approaches to globalization, combining theoretical foundations with advanced methodological training. Core study typically covers theories of globalisation and transnationalism, international political economy, global governance, migration and diasporas, development and inequality, and the cultural dimensions of global change.

Students take a mix of research seminars and advanced methods courses (qualitative and quantitative), and develop expertise in regional studies—particularly the Americas—depending on faculty supervision and research interests. The curriculum moves from coursework and seminars to comprehensive examinations and a sustained original dissertation. Language training, fieldwork preparation and ethics in research are integral where relevant to the dissertation.

• Typical modules and topics: Theories of Globalization; Comparative Political Economy; Migration and Transnationalism; Global Governance and International Organisations; Research Design and Qualitative Methods; Quantitative Methods for Social Research; Ethnographic Methods and Oral History; Area Studies (Latin America/Caribbean, Asia, Africa, Europe).
• Structure: Coursework and seminar sequence in early years, comprehensive exams, proposal defence, followed by dissertation research and writing. Opportunities for teaching experience and research assistantships are embedded in the programme.
• Research training: Emphasis on both substantive engagement with globalization debates and practical skills—fieldwork planning, archival research, data analysis, GIS or computational approaches when relevant.

Entry requirements

• Master’s degree in political science, international relations, sociology, anthropology, economics, development studies or a closely related discipline (or exceptional candidates with a strong bachelor’s and research record).
• Academic transcripts showing strong performance at previous degree level.
• Research statement or proposal articulating a clear research question, methodology and fit with the department’s faculty expertise.
• Curriculum vitae detailing academic and research experience; publications and conference presentations if applicable.
• At least three academic letters of recommendation addressing research potential and preparedness for doctoral study.
• Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests include TOEFL or IELTS), unless otherwise exempted by university policy.
• Standardised tests (e.g. GRE) may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis; applicants should consult the programme for current requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a range of research-intensive and applied careers. Many enter academia as faculty or postdoctoral researchers in international relations, political science, sociology or development studies. Others take roles in policy analysis, research and evaluation at international organisations, multilateral agencies, national governments, NGOs, and think tanks.

Additional career paths include work as consultants on migration and development, analysts in international business and trade policy, data and research specialists in foundations and research institutes, and public intellectuals or media commentators on global issues. The programme’s emphasis on methods and language skills also prepares graduates for leadership roles in evidence-based policy and programme design.

Why study at Florida International University

FIU’s location in Miami provides distinctive advantages for the study of globalization: the city is a major gateway connecting North America with Latin America and the Caribbean, offering rich opportunities for regional research, community partnerships and comparative fieldwork. The university hosts specialised centres and institutes that focus on Latin American and Caribbean studies, migration, transnationalism and global public policy, facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration.

Students benefit from faculty with active research portfolios across political economy, migration, governance and cultural studies, and from access to practicum, internship and funding opportunities through the school and university. Doctoral students typically gain teaching and research experience through assistantships, mentorship for conference participation and support for fieldwork—preparing them for careers in scholarship, policy, and applied research on globalisation.