The Master's in Globalization at CUNY is an interdisciplinary programme that examines contemporary global processes—economic integration, transnational migration, cultural flows and global governance—and their local impacts. It suits students seeking rigorous theoretical and empirical training for careers in policy, research, international organisations, NGOs or further academic study.
This master's provides interdisciplinary training in the political, economic and cultural dimensions of globalization. Core topics typically include theories of globalization, global political economy, transnational migration, global cities and urbanisation, development and postcolonial perspectives, international institutions and global governance. Research methods are emphasised, with courses in qualitative methods, comparative and historical approaches and applied quantitative techniques where relevant.
Students usually complete a combination of required core modules, elective seminars chosen from departments across CUNY (such as sociology, political science, economics, anthropology, and urban studies), and a research component. The programme commonly offers options for a supervised master's thesis or a practicum/capstone project that places students in a professional setting—such as a policy institute, NGO, international organisation or municipal agency—to apply analytical skills to real-world problems.
Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as international relations, political science, economics, sociology, anthropology, geography or a related field. The admissions process typically requires a personal statement outlining academic and professional objectives, academic transcripts, and two or three letters of recommendation. Work experience in international or civic organisations can strengthen an application, particularly for practicum-oriented tracks.
Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English, using an approved test or equivalent qualification accepted by the university. Some programmes may consider graduate record tests as optional; check specific programme guidance for the latest policy. Competitive preparation includes coursework or experience in research methods and quantitative reasoning, especially for students intending to pursue empirical research.
Graduates move into a wide range of public, private and nonprofit roles that require analytical skills and cross-cultural competence. Common career paths include policy analysis and development with government agencies and international organisations, programme management and evaluation for NGOs, research and consulting on global economic and social issues, urban and regional planning roles, and positions in communications and media that focus on global affairs.
Alumni also progress to doctoral study in political science, sociology, geography, development studies or related fields, and some pursue specialised professional roles in international business, human rights organisations, and transnational advocacy networks. The practicum and capstone options are particularly useful for building sector-specific experience and professional networks.
CUNY offers distinct advantages for studying globalization because its campuses are embedded in New York City, a global hub for diplomacy, finance, culture and civil society. Students benefit from proximity to the United Nations, international NGOs, think tanks and a dense network of multinational firms—facilitating internships, guest lectures and collaborative research.
The university's public mission and diverse student body create a comparative and multilingual learning environment that reflects real-world global connections. The programme draws on faculty across CUNY's colleges and research centres, providing interdisciplinary supervision and access to specialised resources in urban studies, development, migration and public policy. This combination of location, institutional breadth and professional links supports practical training and career development in global affairs.
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