Stanford’s International Policy Studies Program was founded in 1982 as part of the School of Humanities and Sciences and endowed as The Ford Dorsey Program in International Policy Studies (IPS) in 2005. IPS students are broadly trained in both analytical and policy skills as well as on the substantive issues facing the world today. IPS is a two-year, graduate-level program that grants the Master of Arts degree.
IPS is an affiliate member of the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA).
Core Strengths
IPS emphasizes the application of advanced analytical and quantitative methods to decision-making in international affairs. The program offers the best of Stanford University’s world-class research, faculty, and facilities.
A Small, Collaborative Program
Small class sizes offer students personalized attention and easy access to faculty and staff. Students learn in peer-to-peer and small group settings. The IPS Student Association (IPSSA) hosts activities for the IPS community.
Interdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary
Students can take courses in the Graduate School of Business, the Law School, the School of Engineering, and the d.school, in addition to the School of Humanities and Sciences. The core curriculum in political science, economics, and international relations can be augmented with courses in social entrepreneurship, data science, and human-centered design.
Part of the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies (FSI)
IPS is affiliated with FSI—one of Stanford’s most prestigious research organizations. Our students are taught and mentored by FSI faculty, participate in FSI conferences and speaker events, and serve as FSI research assistants.
At Stanford
Our students experience two years on a residential campus, with access to the entire university. IPS students can take advantage of countless lectures and conferences, student organizations, and other campus activities.
Students From All Over the World
