St. John Fisher College

Master of Science in International StudiesSt. John Fisher College

The International Studies Discipline

International Studies is an academic discipline that draws on multidisciplinary sources to examine past, current and future trends in a variety of related fields and in theories of international relations. Fields examined include: international security, economics, politics, environmental issues and law.

International Studies

A Unique Program in Rochester

The Master of Science in International Studies Program at St. John Fisher College is the only graduate-level International Studies program in the Rochester area—and was created to fill that need in the community. The program capitalizes on the strength of Fisher’s faculty while reflecting the programmatic design of the most successful International Studies programs at other institutions nationally.

This program does not simsply teach students about the cultures and systems of the foreign powers. Rather, it presents the systems of countries of the world with a historical and political perspective so students understand the significance of a country’s history, politics, economy and culture in a global environment. This allows them to understand the past, to predict possible future trends and to work in and react to foreign environments.

The 21st century will require the inclusion of global considerations in all aspects of instruction and decision- making. This will particularly affect those in areas of business, education and public policy. Some of the people who will most benefit from Fisher’s M.S. in International Studies, therefore, are:

Members of the business community: Rochester is the leading foreign export economy in New York State, outside of New York City. A Master of Science in International Studies degree is a career-enhancing tool in the current global climate of this area, and of the 21st century workplace in general. A thorough understanding of the political, cultural and historical aspects of foreign policy and relationships will make the Rochester business person more valuable and well-positioned for leadership roles.
Middle and High School teachers: The M.S. in International Studies Program is an avenue for permanent certification. Completion of the master’s degree and the certification track will qualify the candidate for the permanent certificate once two years of teaching experience has been obtained and the candidate has passed the appropriate New York State Teacher Certification exams. Teachers with provisional certification and two year’s experience in the classroom will be able to apply for permanent certification upon receipt of this degree. Graduates of this program will be able to fill a market niche, having an understanding of the global issues that need to be conveyed to the students of the new millennium.

People with an undergraduate background in International Studies, History or Political Science who have a serious intellectual interest in the discipline: The M.S. program can balance undergraduate performance, leading to advanced research at the doctoral level. ...READ THE ENTIRE BROCHURE