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This joint degree program integrates the Master of Arts in International Relations from the Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, DC, with the Master of Science in Public Health in International Health offered by the Bloomberg School of Public Health. Typically spanning three years instead of the usual four, the accelerated timeline replaces MSPH fieldwork with coursework at SAIS. The curriculum equips graduates for professional roles demanding advanced healthcare knowledge alongside deep insights into global political, economic, social, and cultural dynamics. A key focus lies on merging academic learning with practical skills necessary for designing and overseeing health programs across diverse international contexts. Participants generally complete their first year at the Bloomberg School, followed by a 4-6 month field placement, before commencing their MA studies at SAIS in January of year two. The SAIS curriculum highlights policy analysis, development economics, area studies, and language proficiency, while the Public Health component covers foundational subjects like epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy, plus specialized public health training.
Admissions will waive this requirement for degree applicants only if a student has completed a four-year degree from an accredited U.S. institution.
Students must have IELTS Academic Band Score equal to 7, or a minimum score of 600 (paper-based), 250 (computer-based), and 100 (internet-based) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).