Public-private partnerships and interdisciplinary programs are frequent topics of conversation hereabouts, but often don't happen. An exception is a new Jackson School of International Affairs accelerated master's program at the University of Washington.
The program, which will last 10 months and have 28 spaces for professionals, is just now accepting applications. Graduates will receive a Master of Arts degree in Applied International Studies. (This program is not to be confused with the Jackson School's three-year Ph.D. program).
Students in the condensed program, who will mostly come from public and private institutions involved in international affairs, will be exposed to Jackson School faculty as well as to faculty in other UW graduate schools and departments. There will be particular concentration on Asia/Pacific studies. It will differ in particular from East Coast masters programs, which focus on traditional diplomacy.
The program will be advised by a Civic Council, just now forming, representing area businesses and non-profits. Its charter members include Gen. Pete Chiarelli, who heads the non-profit One Mind for Research, Lisa Cohen of the Washington Global Health Alliance, James Bernard of Microsoft and Nirav Desai of Booz Allen Hamilton.
A former U.S, Foreign Service officer, Jennifer Butte-Dahl, is program director. The program's goal, Butte-Dahl says, is to eventually accommodate up to 50 master's candidates. The applications deadline is April 4.
The Jackson School's new leaf
Seattle's most reputable international affairs program introduces a new, condensed option for working professionals.
Seattle's most reputable international affairs program introduces a new, condensed option for working professionals.
