Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous theoretical training with specialised study in security, diplomacy, international political economy and regional studies. Early coursework builds foundations in international relations theory, research design, quantitative and qualitative methods, and advanced statistics. Students then take elective modules and seminars that reflect their chosen specialism — examples include comparative security studies, intelligence and policy analysis, terrorism and counter‑insurgency, cyber and information security, migration and borders, and Latin American/Caribbean foreign relations.

Programme structure typically includes a period of taught coursework, comprehensive/qualifying examinations, and an extended supervised research dissertation. Core elements you can expect:

• Core theory and methods: Intensive seminars in IR theory, empirical methods (survey, experimental, case-study and process tracing), and advanced quantitative analysis.
• Specialist seminars: Thematic courses on national security, conflict dynamics, intelligence studies, arms control, regional security in the Western Hemisphere, and international political economy.
• Research and professional skills: Training in grant writing, archival research, language study where appropriate, and policy communication.
• Comprehensive examinations: Written and/or oral exams that assess mastery of theory, methods and the student’s chosen field of concentration.
• Doctoral dissertation: An original piece of scholarship making a substantive contribution to international relations or security studies, produced under faculty supervision.
• Teaching and practicum opportunities: Many students gain experience as course instructors or research assistants; opportunities for internships with local policy organisations and consulates are often available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree (for example in international relations, political science, public policy or a closely related discipline) or a strong honours degree plus evidence of advanced research preparation. Admissions committees evaluate applicants on the basis of academic transcripts, a substantive research proposal, a writing sample (such as a thesis chapter or published paper), and letters of recommendation.

Additional considerations commonly include:

• Demonstrated preparation in research methods and coursework in international relations or comparative politics.
• A clear statement of research interests and how they align with programme faculty expertise.
• Evidence of quantitative skills if pursuing empirically oriented work; language proficiency where fieldwork requires it.
• Standardised test scores may be considered if submitted, but specific requirements vary; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university policy.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a broad range of careers in academia, policy and practice. Common career paths include:

• University and college faculty positions and postdoctoral research roles focused on international relations and security studies.
• Research and leadership roles in think tanks and policy institutes that address defence, strategic studies, and international policy.
• Analyst and policy positions within government departments, defence establishments, intelligence agencies and diplomatic services.
• Professional roles in international organisations, multilateral agencies, NGOs and humanitarian organisations engaged with conflict, migration and development.
• Consultancy, strategic risk analysis, and specialised journalism or commentary on international affairs.

Why study at Florida International University

FIU’s programme is housed in a school with a strong regional focus on the Americas and an emphasis on applied policy research. The university’s Miami location provides proximity to Latin America and the Caribbean, a dense network of consulates and international organisations, and frequent opportunities for regionally focused fieldwork and internships. FIU also hosts research centres and specialised initiatives that complement doctoral training, offering access to interdisciplinary collaborations in migration studies, Latin American politics, global security, and transnational governance.

Students benefit from a diverse faculty whose research spans theoretical and empirical approaches to security and international relations, mentoring for both scholarly publication and policy engagement, and opportunities to gain teaching experience. The combination of methodological training, regional expertise and policy-facing activities prepares graduates for impact in both academic and practitioner settings.