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Streamlined Pathways to Graduate Study

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Accelerating Global Impact

Hobart and William Smith International Relations majors have access to two distinctive accelerated pathways to graduate study through premier partner institutions — each designed to help students move more quickly and affordably toward careers in international affairs, diplomacy and public service.

These partnerships — with the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University and the Fletcher School at Tufts University — allow qualified students to begin graduate-level work early, receive priority consideration for admission and benefit from substantial tuition savings through scholarship guarantees.

 

Two Pathways.
Dunn

One Goal.

Both programs are designed for high-achieving students who want to deepen their expertise while maintaining flexibility in how they launch their careers.

 

Syracuse UniversityMaxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

An accelerated pathway to the

  • Master of Public Administration (MPA)
  • Master of Arts in International Relations (MAIR) or
  • Joint MPA/MAIR programs

For students pursuing careers in public policy, international affairs and public leadership, the Maxwell program allows students to

  • Begin graduate coursework early and complete up to one-third of their graduate degree before leaving HWS
  • Transfer approved graduate-level courses from HWS to the Maxwell School
  • Enroll directly in graduate courses at the Maxwell School while still enrolled at HWS
  • Receive priority admission consideration and substantial scholarship support
Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affair

 

Tufts UniversityThe Fletcher School

A pathway to the Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy (MALD) through the Map Your Future Program.

Ideal for students interested in diplomacy, global public policy, international development and a range of related fields, the Fletcher program enables students to:

  • Secure early admission and defer enrollment for up to two years
  • Gain professional experience through work, fellowships or service
  • Receive significant scholarship support
Learn more about the Fletcher School Pathway

Who Should Consider These Programs?

These opportunities are designed for

  • International Relations majors
  • High-performing students with strong academic records and a commitment to global engagement
  • Those seeking a faster, more affordable transition to graduate study

For advising and eligibility questions, students should consult the International Relations Department early in their academic careers.

Maxwell Fletcher

#1 for public affairs in U.S.

Global leader in international affairs

No GRE required

No GRE required

Start coursework early

Admit now, start later

Credit acceleration

Experience acceleration

Master of Public Administration and/or Master of Arts in International Relations

Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy

Strong policy/public
administration

Strong diplomacy/
global governance focus
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Maxwell and Fletcher programs?
Both are accelerated pathways that allow International Relations majors to begin graduate study early at top schools — Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University and the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University — while completing their HWS degree.
How do these pathways work?
Qualified students take graduate-level courses during their senior year at HWS, which count toward both their bachelor’s degree and a future master’s degree.
What degrees can students earn through these programs?
Students can go on to earn degrees such as a Master of Public Administration/Master of Arts in International Relations (Maxwell) or a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy (Fletcher), depending on the program.
How much time can I save?
The Maxwell pathway will allow students to complete a master’s degree in less time than the traditional route— up to a semester faster than they might otherwise finish. The savings with the Fletcher pathway comes with peace of mind. Student accepted to the Map Your Future program hold their spot in the class at Fletcher while they pursue an enriching experience for up to two years.
Is there a financial benefit?
Yes. Students can reduce overall tuition costs by completing some graduate credits as undergraduates and may receive additional financial incentives or scholarships.
Who is eligible to apply?
High-achieving International Relations majors at HWS who meet GPA and coursework requirements are eligible. Each program has specific criteria.
When do students apply?
Students usually apply during their junior or senior year, after completing foundational coursework in international relations.
Do these programs guarantee admission to graduate school?
They offer priority consideration and a strong admissions pathway, but students must still meet all academic and application requirements.
Can students study abroad and still participate?
Yes. Given the specific nature of the International Relations field, it is unusual for students not to study abroad. Students should work with an International Relations advisor early on to identify study abroad programs where they can pursue appropriate coursework that will keep them on track to complete necessary requirements.
What kinds of careers do these programs prepare students for?
Graduates pursue careers in diplomacy, international development, public policy, global business and nonprofit leadership.