International Politics and Security (Qatar), MA

Department website: http://grad.qatar.georgetown.edu

The MA in International Politics and Security has not yet obtained approval for VA education benefits at this time, and is pending submission of its VA application. Please contact our Assistant Registrar for Veteran/Military Benefits at militarybenefits@georgetown.edu for more information.

The MA in International Politics and Security at Georgetown University in Qatar (MA- IPAS-Q) educates and equips the next generation of analysts, scholars, and practitioners in international affairs. Through a rigorous curriculum grounded in international relations scholarship, with an emphasis on security studies and the politics of the region, the MA- IPAS-Q challenges students to master theory and to apply their knowledge to the most pressing challenges in international politics and security. The program will also instill a commitment to ethically grounded research and to service across the professional and scholarly communities our graduates will lead.

About the Program

The MA-IPAS-Q at Georgetown University in Qatar prepares analysts, emerging scholars, and practitioners to engage with the most pressing regional and global challenges in international politics and security.

Grounded in International Relations and emphasizing security studies and the geopolitics of the region, the program equips students with advanced theoretical knowledge and the research competencies needed to conduct original, ethically grounded inquiry. Students apply theoretical frameworks to real-world conflict, diplomacy, and governance while learning to communicate complex arguments across academic, professional, and public contexts. Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, students acquire research methods and develop an MA thesis that produces a substantive and original contribution to scholarship in international politics or security studies. Set within Georgetown's Doha campus, the program offers a distinctive vantage on international and regional security. Small class sizes allow for research-led teaching and learning. Students will receive individualized mentorship and research supervision. Seminars, workshops, and other outward-facing events provide opportunities for engagement with a range of practitioners at the nexus of  theory and applied knowledge. Graduates will leave prepared for a range of professional and scholarly environments including senior roles in government, diplomacy, international organizations, research, and the private sector, or progressing to doctoral study.

Connect with Us: guqgradmail@georgetown.edu

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Applications open Fall 2026

Degrees Offered

  • M.A.

Accelerated program (Georgetown students only)

  • B.S.F.S./M.A.

​Admissions Requirements


For general graduate admissions requirements, visit the Office of Graduate Admissions’ Application Information page. Please review the program’s website for additional information on program application requirements.

Application materials required:

  • Application Form
  • Non-Refundable Application Fee
  • Academic Statement of Purpose: The statement of purpose is a critical component of the MA-IPAS-Q  application. It should address your intellectual interests as well as your  professional and academic goals. Please carefully explain how the program specifically fits into your future academic and professional plans. Do not exceed 500 words. 
  • Letters of Recommendation (3): Letters should be provided by individuals who can assess the applicant’s qualifications and preparation for graduate studies. Letters of recommendation are to be submitted electronically using the online application system. Personal letters of recommendation, such as those from colleagues, coaches, and family friends, are not accepted.
  • Transcripts: Applicants are required to upload to the application system copies of official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Visit the Office of Graduate Admission’s Application Information page for additional details and FAQs.
  • Latest Resume/CV
  • Supplemental Data – Foreign Language Skills
  • Video Statement (optional)
  • GRE (optional)
  • TOEFL/IELTS  If your undergraduate degree is from an institution where English was not the primary language of instruction, submit either:
    • TOEFL = 100 minimum (original TOEFL iBT score scale) or 5 (new TOEFL iBT score scale beginning Jan. 21, 2026)
    • IELTS = 7.5 minimum

Degree Requirements

The MA- IPAS-Q program is designed to be completed in two years (18 - 24 months) of full-time study, or over 36 months of part-time study, with a total of 36 credits. Students could also complete it as an accelerated 5-year BSFS/MA program. The program has two tracks: a global form and a track focusing on the “Politics and Security of the Middle East.” The first cohort will be admitted for Fall 2027. Please see the Graduate Bulletin under the School of Foreign Service for more information including the requirements of the master's program. Applicants must contact their GU-Q advising dean prior to submitting an application to the accelerated BSFS/MA program.