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Graduate Programs
Explore the programs offered by this organization.
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The Ford Dorsey Master’s in International Policy (MIP) is a two-year, full-time, interdisciplinary program at Stanford University that awards the Master of Arts (MA) in International Policy. Housed within the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies (FSI), MIP prepares students for careers in international policymaking and implementation across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
The program combines rigorous scholarship with practical training, drawing on FSI’s faculty and research community and Stanford’s broader academic resources. Students learn to analyze complex international challenges, develop evidence-based policy solutions, and address the practical demands of implementation.
The curriculum builds a foundation in social science research methods, policy analysis and implementation, and interpersonal skills. Drawing on disciplines including political science, economics, law, history, science, and technology, students tailor their studies through electives and develop substantive expertise in one area of specialization:
Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Technology Policy (ACT)
Energy, Natural Resources, and the Environment (ENRE)
Governance and Development (GOVDEV)
International Security (ISEC)
Elective coursework allows students to deepen their specialization or explore complementary fields, aligning their studies with their academic interests and professional goals. This flexibility supports both focused expertise and a broader understanding of international policy.
The program culminates in Policy Change Studio, a two-quarter capstone during the second year. Working in teams with external partner organizations and faculty guidance, students investigate policy problems and develop feasible, evidence-based solutions. The experience integrates research, fieldwork, teamwork, and implementation planning.
MIP brings together a small, international cohort whose varied experiences and perspectives enrich classroom discussion and collaborative learning. Students engage with scholars and practitioners and pursue relevant coursework across Stanford, connecting academic inquiry with the challenges of policy practice.
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