THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
BA/MA Program for UChicago Undergraduates
Current University of Chicago undergraduate students are eligible to enroll in CIR through the joint BA/MA program in International Relations. The joint program is an excellent opportunity for high-performing undergraduates to complete a graduate program without any additional enrollment at the University. Interested students should reach out to Lindsey Weglarz, Associate Dean of Students for Admissions and Data Reporting, by Autumn Quarter of their 3rd undergraduate year to discuss the program and joint degree logistics.
Joint BA/MA students complete all curricular requirements of the standard one-year program, as well as submit an MA thesis. A detailed overview of the BA/MA degree requirements and policies, including credit-sharing with the College are available on the Division’s website.
The dual BA/MA program is a four-year program and is distinct from the UChicago 4+1 program, which takes five years to complete.
Before beginning an application, potential BA/MA students should schedule an appointment with Lindsey Weglarz, Associate Dean of Students for Admissions and Data Reporting, to discuss eligibility and degree logistics.
Please see the Division of the Social Sciences for the application requirements and process. BA/MA students can apply during any of the application rounds, but we strongly encourage applying during Rounds 1 and 2, as later round consideration is on a space-available basis only.
"CIR helps me to define my future goals by offering numerous, but precious, opportunities to collaborate and learn from people with diverse identities, backgrounds, and perspectives. In curriculums, the opportunity to work closely with knowledgeable instructors in a wide range of courses enables me to deepen my understanding of the complex dynamics of international relations. In core seminars, discussing and debating with peers on specific topics developed my communication and public speaking skills which are highly valued in academic and professional settings.
For the thesis, a core of the program curriculum, working with the faculty adviser and the weekly thesis workshop equips me with the analytical and methodological skills necessary for success in academic IR research. And equally important, this process enables me to become an “expert” to explore a particular area and make a meaningful primary contribution."
- Jiarui Zhang