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Al Akhawayn University Programs have been accredited by:

Master of Arts in International Studies and Diplomacy

Introduction | Entry Requirements | Program Requirements | Degree Requirements
Core Courses | International Relations Courses | Area Concentration

Program Requirements

Foundation Courses: After the admission decisions are made, the admissions committee will evaluate each candidate’s academic record to determine which, if any, foundation courses the student will take.

Language Requirements: In addition to English, Moroccan students are required to have at least intermediate level language proficiency in two other languages. One of these languages must be either Arabic or French.

Students who do not already have the required level of proficiency will be able to register for courses in these languages at Al Akhawayn. A placement test will determine the level of the student. All language courses must be successfully completed by the time the student sits the qualifying exam at the completion of their regular coursework. Language courses are to be taken in addition to, and not as a part of, the Master of Art in International Studies and Diplomacy. As such they do not count towards the total credits required for the final degree.

In addition to full proficiency in English, foreign students are required to provide proof of at least intermediate-level language proficiency in either Arabic or French. Placement for foreign students will be conducted along the same lines as placement for Moroccan students.

Course Work: Depending on students’ prior background, the MA in International Studies and Diplomacy program may require up to 51 SCH of course work –35/36 SCH of MAISD courses plus up to 16 SCH of foundation courses.

Qualifying Exam: Students must pass a written qualifying exam during the last semester of regular course work. Prior to the qualifying exam, students must submit a thesis proposal, which will be defended during the oral phase of the examination.

Internship: Students with less than one year of relevant full time work experience are required to complete an internship. Students must then submit and defend a written internship report before three AUI faculty members. Student exempted from this requirement will complete an additional course.

Thesis: All students must complete a thesis. The thesis must follow the most recent “Guidelines for Thesis Students,” issued by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. The thesis must be defended before a committee that includes an external examiner. The defense takes place only after successful completion of the qualifying exam.

Exit interview: The exit interview consists of a reflective discussion and evaluation of the graduating student’s experiences at AUI conducted by a School Committee. The purpose of the interview is to review graduate curriculum and the academic support facilities as part of continual self-examination practiced for the long-term benefit of the program.