Yadav

Maxwell Program

Jump to:

Accelerating the Path to Public Impact


Syracuse University Maxwell School of Citizenship & Public Affairs

Hobart and William Smith offers students interested in public policy and international affairs an accelerated pathway to graduate study at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs — the U.S. News & World Report’s No. 1 graduate program for public affairs.

The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs accelerated degree program pathway enables qualified HWS students to begin graduate-level coursework as undergraduates and complete nearly one-third of a master’s degree before earning their bachelor’s. 

“We know that Hobart and William Smith students come highly prepared and bring a genuine interest in making a positive difference for the public good, which is a core of our mission. This pathway not only gives them a head start on their graduate study, but they also become part of Maxwell’s global community of students, scholars and alumni.”

– Maxwell School Dean David M. Van Slyke

The collaboration reflects a shared commitment between the two institutions to prepare students for leadership in public affairs, international relations and public administration.

Under the agreement, HWS students may apply by mid-March of their junior year for priority admission consideration to the Maxwell School.

The accelerated degree pathway is for students interested in pursuing a

Those accepted receive an application fee waiver, dedicated advising and a guaranteed 30 percent tuition scholarship for the remaining graduate credits required after matriculation.

Participants may enroll in up to two Maxwell graduate courses during their senior year at HWS. They may also transfer up to two additional 600-level international relations courses completed at HWS, which means as much as one-third of the graduate degree can be finished before they complete their undergraduate studies.

HWS students who have been accepted to the program will be able to enroll in a select number of Maxwell School graduate courses each semester. For those courses, students will be charged Syracuse University tuition but at the lower undergraduate non-matriculated rate.

Program Highlights

Early Admission with Flexibility

Admitted students who want to transfer two International Relations courses from HWS are not required to take Maxwell courses before graduation but still take advantage of a scholarship and early acceptance at a top-tier program. In addition, HWS undergraduates are allowed:

  • An Application Fee Waiver
  • Priority Admission Consideration
  • To apply by March 15 of their Junior year
  • Access to highly regarded master’s degrees on-campus, online and at the Maxwell School’s Washington D.C.-based headquarters

HWS alumni can apply anytime while the agreement is active.

Accelerated Options

  • Take up to 2 Maxwell graduate courses during your senior year at HWS
  • Transfer up to 2 additional 600-level International Relations courses taken at HWS
  • Together, this means nearly 1/3 of your graduate degree can be completed prior to earning your bachelor's degree.

Financial Support

  • 30% tuition scholarship for all remaining credits
  • Highly qualified candidates may be eligible for a higher award

Program Fit

Both the MPA and MAIR programs give students the skills needed to pursue careers across all sectors — government, nonprofits, NGOs and private sector.

Admissions Snapshot

  • Minimum GPA: 3.5
  • International Relations major
  • No GRE required

More Information

For more details on accelerated degree program pathways in international relations, please consult Chair of the International Relations Department Stacey Philbrick Yadav at philbrickyadav@hws.edu or (315) 781-3430

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Maxwell School a strong choice for graduate study?
The Maxwell School is consistently ranked among the top programs in public affairs and international relations. It offers rigorous, policy-focused training combined with real-world application, preparing students for impactful careers in government, NGOs, and global organizations.
How does Maxwell complement an HWS liberal arts education?
HWS emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and interdisciplinary learning—skills that align perfectly with Maxwell’s analytical and policy-driven curriculum. HWS graduates are well-prepared to thrive in Maxwell’s collaborative, discussion-based environment.
What types of graduate degrees can HWS students pursue at Maxwell?
Students commonly pursue master’s degrees in Public Administration and/or International Relations.
Is there an advantage for HWS students applying to Maxwell?
Yes. Accepted HWS students receive an application fee waiver, dedicated advising and a guaranteed 30 percent tuition scholarship for the remaining graduate credits required after matriculation.
How quickly can students complete a Maxwell degree?
Some programs at Maxwell, like the MPA, are designed to be completed in as little as one year, allowing students to quickly gain advanced credentials and enter the workforce.
What career outcomes are typical for Maxwell graduates?
Graduates go on to careers in public service, international organizations, consulting, and nonprofit leadership. Many work for institutions like federal agencies, the United Nations, and global NGOs.
How does location factor into the HWS–Maxwell pathway?
Both campuses are located in Central New York, making the transition seamless. Students benefit from proximity while gaining access to a larger research university environment at Syracuse.
Will I receive personalized support during the transition?
Yes. HWS faculty and advisors work closely with students to guide them through the application process, while Maxwell offers strong academic advising and career services once enrolled.
How does Maxwell emphasize real-world experience?
Maxwell integrates experiential learning through internships, policy labs, and consulting-style projects, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to real policy challenges.
Why is this pathway especially valuable in today’s world?
Being able to enter the workforce with a top-tier graduate degree in five years is a value in itself.   Doing so with a guaranteed scholarship speaks to the fact that the Maxwell School, too, recognizes HWS as future leaders and public servants worthy of investment.