• Wilkinson College student listening intently to classmate
Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

» Master of Arts in International Studies

The Master of Arts in International Studies at Chapman University’s Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences is a two-year interdisciplinary course of study that links global theory and practice. The program prepares graduates for a range of global careers with nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), the United Nations (UN), U.S. Foreign Service, and other global entities. 

International Studies students culminate their degrees with the MA thesis, which analyzes contemporary global challenges. The International Studies program immerses students in culture and real-world inquiry, offering the language and professional skills necessary to succeed in global professions.

Why Get an MA in International Studies at Chapman? 

  • Work with faculty who bring extensive research and professional expertise from around the world in various disciplines including Political Science, Sociology, Economics, Communication, Peace Studies and Law. 
  • Enhance your cross-cultural professional skills through an immersive 240-hour internship experience in industries such as non-profit, humanitarian and development work, diplomacy, education, and business.
Alumni Highlight
Iara Gonzalez-Ascencio ’24
“I truly appreciated the unwavering support and care provided by the MAIS Program’s Director, Graduate Programs Coordinator, and faculty. From the beginning to the end, their guidance and understanding were invaluable.”
Alumni Highlight
Juan Bustillo, MA '20
“The opportunities I was able to take advantage of during my time at Chapman allowed me to combine my different passions and interests in ways I didn't expect. The students and faculty pushed me to explore new possibilities within the discipline, particularly with documentary filmmaking, and not let myself get complacent with my work.”
Faculty Highlight
Dr. Crystal Murphy
Courses taught: Global Political Economy, International Relations, Politics of Humanitarianism, International Development Strategy and NGOs, Environmental Policy
Faculty Highlight
Dr. Andrea Molle
Courses taught: Research Design, Campaigns and Elections, Game Theory for Political Science.

Toggle Section

Contact Us


Crystal Murphy, Ph.D.
Director, MA in International Studies
crmurphy@chapman.edu

David Krausman
Graduate Programs Coordinator
(714) 516-7116
krausman@chapman.edu

Shannon Morris Alvarez
Graduate Admission Counselor
(714) 628-2884
shmorris@chapman.edu

For additional admission information, please contact:

Office of Graduate Admission
888-CU-APPLY or (714) 997-6711
gradadmit@chapman.edu

Live Information Session


Watch our last virtual information session from fall of 2023!

Application Deadlines


Apply now using the Online Application. Submit your application and all supporting documents by the deadline listed below. 

Applications received after these deadlines will be considered on a rolling basis as space is available.

  • For Fall Semester: February 1
  • For Spring Semester: November 1