The Master of Arts in International Affairs (MAIA) Professional Program at California State University, Long Beach is designed to prepare leaders for a changing world by providing the skills that employers demand for the global workforce of the 21st century. Greater Los Angeles is one of the most globally connected metropolitan areas in the world. The region’s diversity of trade, international investment, cultures, and languages exceeds that of all but a small handful of countries. Employment opportunities in California and beyond reflect a growing demand for professionals with global, intercultural, and applied policy competencies.
CSULB is ranked #1 in the Western U.S. for Best Value (Washington Monthly) and among the top 10% of universities nationally for Return on Investment (Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce). Aligned with professional standards in the field, the MAIA program combines interdisciplinary, policy-oriented, intercultural, and global studies with applied professional and career development. Through a cohort-based learning environment, students develop both the international affairs expertise and project management skills needed to address complex global challenges.
Designed to meet the needs of both emerging and working professionals, MAIA offers both full-time and part-time pathways to the degree. Full-time students can complete the program in 18 months, while a flexible part-time option allows students to progress through the program over 28-36 months. Both pathways combine online and hybrid learning with opportunities for in-person engagement, enabling students to build a strong intellectual and professional community while balancing graduate study with work and other commitments.
Graduates are prepared for careers in areas such as international development and relief, migration advocacy, international nonprofit management, international business, and trade policy. The MAIA program develops the professional skills necessary for successful international careers in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors—both at home and abroad.
Core elements of the program include methodological and analytical skills, functional competence, intercultural communication, and foreign language knowledge within a multidisciplinary approach. The curriculum connects theory and evidence to real-world challenges while developing practical tools for policy analysis, project development, management, and problem solving. The program culminates in a carefully placed internship and capstone experience that enables students to apply their knowledge and skills in professional settings.
Please Note:
Students enrolled in this program are eligible for some forms of financial aid, with the exception of the State University Grant (SUG) and Cal Vet College Fee Waiver.
GI Bill benefits can be used for this program. Click here to learn more about eligibility, rates, and other details.
New graduates with a bachelor’s degree in International/Global Studies, Political Science, Geography, History, Sociology, Anthropology, Languages, or related social science fields
Experienced professionals in diverse fields looking to accelerate their career through opportunities in California as well as internationally
Those working in the public sector, including federal, state, local, and/or foreign governments
Those working in private sector fields including trade, consulting, finance/banking, and business
Those working in the nonprofit sector such as Nongovernmental Organizations, public interest and advocacy, and higher education
Hybrid program combining online and in-person learning environments
The MAIA program is designed accelerated to be completed in 18 months while keeping total costs commensurate with traditional graduate programs at CSULB
The MAIA program is one of the least expensive professional MA International Affairs programs in the country
Personalized internship advising to help students find internships in California
The only professional master's degree program in International Affairs that includes a focus on serving California’s specific population and workforce needs in a global context
Global systems patterns with attention to policy, conclusions, limitations, and implications
Policy-making theories, models, and applications
Project management and budgeting
Causes, consequences, legal issues, and identity intersectionality in migration and immigration
Contrasting perspectives and practical skills for international development
How to apply international affairs skills to real-world problems
How to identify pathways from your MAIA degree into career placements
International Economics
International Politics
Scope and Methods for International Affairs
International Economic Development
Applied International Development
Project Management
Global Trends in International Migration
Labor Migration
Citizenship and Immigration Law
Management of Nonprofit Organizations
Budgets
A student capstone project
Completion of 33 units of approved graduate courses with a 3.0 GPA or better
A graduate GPA of 3.0 or better in the program course requirements
Successfully complete the culminating activity with a passing grade
Satisfaction of all university graduation requirements
Program Outline
The Master of Arts in International Affairs requires 33 units of graduate coursework, including six core courses, a three-course specialization, and a culminating internship and capstone experience.
Students may pursue a degree through either a full-time 18-month pathway or a part-time pathway designed to provide greater flexibility for students balancing graduate study with professional and personal commitments. Course availability varies by semester, and students should work with the Program Director to develop an appropriate plan of study.
The full-time pathway is designed for students who wish to complete the MAIA degree in approximately 18 months.
Fall — Semester 1 | 9 units
MAIA 600 – International Affairs Cornerstone (3 units)
MAIA 620 – International Politics (3 units)
MAIA 640 – Scope and Methods of International Affairs (3 units)
Spring — Semester 2 | 9 units
MAIA 630 – Policy Making Process (3 units)
MAIA 610 – International Economics (3 units)
MAIA 650 – Project Management (3 units)
Summer — Semester 3 | Specialization | 9 units
Students complete one of two professional specializations:
International Development and Non-Profit Management
MAIA 605 – International Economic Development (3 units)
MAIA 615 – Management of Nonprofit Organizations (3 units)
MAIA 625 – Applied International Development (3 units)
OR
Migration and Immigration Advocacy
MAIA 635 – Global Trends in International Migration (3 units)
MAIA 645 – Labor Migration (3 units)
MAIA 655 – Citizenship and Immigration Law (3 units)
Fall — Semester 4 | 6 units + Internship
MAIA 660 – Budgets (3 units)
MAIA 698 – Capstone Project (3 units)
Supervised international affairs-related internship
The final semester allows students to integrate their academic and professional preparation through an internship and client-serving capstone project.
The part-time pathway allows students to complete the same 33-unit MAIA curriculum over a longer period, typically taking one or two courses per term. This option is particularly well-suited for working professionals and others who need additional flexibility while completing the degree.
Students wishing to pursue the part-time pathway should discuss this option with the Program Director. Because MAIA courses are offered on a scheduled rotation, part-time students work with the Program Director to develop an individualized plan of study.
A typical part-time pathway may look like the following:
Year 1 — Fall | 6 units
MAIA 600 – International Affairs Cornerstone (3 units)
Year 1 — Spring | 6 units
MAIA 610 – International Economics (3 units)
MAIA 630 – Policy Making Process (3 units)
Year 1 — Summer | 3–6 units
Begin courses in the student's selected specialization:
International Development and Non-Profit Management
MAIA 605 – International Economic Development
MAIA 615 – Management of Nonprofit Organizations
MAIA 625 – Applied International Development
OR
Migration and Immigration Advocacy
MAIA 635 – Global Trends in International Migration
MAIA 645 – Labor Migration
MAIA 655 – Citizenship and Immigration Law
Students may complete one or two specialization courses during the first summer and complete the remaining specialization coursework during the following summer.
Year 2 — Fall | 6 units
MAIA 620 – International Politics (3 units)
MAIA 640 – Scope and Methods of International Affairs (3 units)
Year 2 — Spring | 3 units
MAIA 650 – Project Management (3 units)
Year 2 — Summer | Remaining Specialization Coursework
Complete remaining course(s) in the selected specialization.
Year 3 — Fall | 6 units + Internship
MAIA 660 – Budgets (3 units)
MAIA 698 – Capstone Project (3 units)
Supervised international affairs-related internship
Part-time students complete the same culminating experience as full-time students, including the internship, client-serving project, final report, and public presentation.
Information Sessions
On-Demand Info Session
Interested in learning more about the program, but at a time that's more convenient for you? Sign up to receive a link to an on-demand video with Dr. Caitlin Fouratt, program director, who provides information about the program, including details about the curriculum, the cohort model, and the benefits of choosing CSULB to advance your education. She also reviews the application process and admission requirements in this video session.
Once you complete this form you will have access to an 8-minute video that provides an overview of the MAIA program. Then you'll have the chance to schedule a virtual one-on-one appointment with Dr. Fouratt at a time that works for you!
Already watched the video or have individual questions?
Admission Requirements
Admission decisions are based on consideration of the applicant’s previous academic record, statement of purpose, resume, and letters of recommendation.
A bachelor’s degree in a social science, language, or related field from a regionally accredited university
A minimum GPA of 2.7 in the last 60 semester units attempted, and good standing at the last college attended
A statement of purpose
A recent resume
Two letters of recommendation
Although there is no prerequisite coursework, applicants are strongly encouraged to have completed Introduction to Macroeconomics and Introduction to Microeconomics.
While language proficiency is a criterion for graduation, not admission, applicants are encouraged to complete basic proficiency in a second language in advance of enrollment. Please consult with the program director for more information.
How to Apply
Admission to the MAIA degree program requires approval by the University and the program's Graduate Applicant Review Committee. Please follow all directions closely.
Admission Criteria, Documentation, and Information
To be admitted to the program, you must apply for admission using the California State University admissions portal calledCal State Apply. By applying online, you can start, stop, and save your application information throughout the process. Note the following steps to begin the application process:
Select a term to apply for (Fall)
Sign in or create an account
Select CSU Long Beach as your campus and Select Extended Education as the Source
Select International Affairs from the list of available programs; and once chosen, the program title will be highlighted in green with a check mark to indicate that you have chosen the correct program
Use the dashboard to continue with your application for admission to the program
You will be asked to provide the following:
Personal Information
Academic History
Supporting Information
Program Materials
Note the following admissions criteria and information:
You must have earned a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university or have completed equivalent academic preparation at a foreign university, as determined by the appropriate campus authority.
You must be in good academic standing at the last college or university attended.
You must have attained an acceptable grade point average (GPA) in any of the following ways: (a) hold an advanced degree; (b) hold a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.7 (A = 4.0); or (c) hold a bachelor's degree with a GPA of at least 2.5 in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted.
Students in the process of completing a baccalaureate degree may be admitted on a provisional basis, subject to proof of degree completion by the established deadline, if their cumulative GPA is at least 2.7 or if the GPA in their last 60 semester or 90 quarter units are calculated at 2.5 or higher.
Admission to CSULB is competitive. We prefer applicants who have earned a GPA of at least 3.0 in the last 60 semester units attempted. A student whose overall GPA is less than 3.0, but who presents acceptable evidence of professional potential (either through recent academic performance and/or experiential background), may be admitted by special action of the program's Graduate Applicant Review Committee.
Note the following documentation requirements and information:
Official transcripts from all previously attended academic institutions after high school must be sent directly to CSULB Enrollment Services. Do not send transcripts to faculty, staff, or the Department, because they will be returned unopened. Some academic institutions will send your transcripts electronically to CSULB. Other institutions will send your transcripts by U.S. Mail, which must be sent to the following address:
Office of Admissions and Records California State University, Long Beach 1250 Bellflower Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90840-0106
The Cal State Apply website requests transcript entry. Graduate applicants need only enter courses that are in-progress or planned. Select “I am Not Adding Any College Transcripts” if you do not have in-progress or planned coursework. Do NOT enter individual course information from each individual institution attended, unless you want the system to calculate your grade point average. Entering all of this information is not necessary for admission to our program.
You may send your resume directly to the Program Director, along with your relevant experiences, achievements, and a Statement of Purpose. Documents may be sent by email or U.S. Mail, but email is strongly encouraged for most efficient communication.
Provide email addresses for your two (2) references, who will receive an email with instructions to upload their letters of recommendation via Cal State Apply. These letters must come directly from the individuals signing the letters.
Review and submit your application with the fee by the published deadline.
For part-time applicants: please indicate your potential plan of study in your statement of purpose and email the program director to discuss further.
You may periodically email the Graduate Advisor for a status report.
Wait for an admissions decision to come by email directly from CSULB Enrollment Services. If you are admitted to the program, you will receive course scheduling and enrollment instructions from the Graduate Advisor at least two weeks before the semester begins.
If you have special admissions needs or questions, please contact the appropriate CSULB office directly:
The MAIA program admits students for the Fall semester only. The MAIA application deadline is March 15 for international applicants and June 1 for those in the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cost per unit: $515 (Starting Fall 2021)
Cost per 3-unit course: $1,545
Total cost of the program: $16,995
Costs for books, software, or other course materials are in addition to the course fees.
Please contact the MAIA Program Developer, Matthew Reimers, at Matthew.Reimers@csulb.edu or (562) 985-8222 OR you may contact the MAIA Program Director, Dr. Caitlin Fourat, at Caitlin.Fouratt@csulb.edu or (562) 985-4703.
Every step in the process for applying to the MAIA program is detailed on our How To Apply page.
New university graduates in with a baccalaureate degree in International/Global Studies, Political Science, Geography, History, Sociology, Anthropology, Languages, or a related social science field; or experienced professionals in diverse fields looking to looking to accelerate their career and open it to global opportunities in California, nationally, or abroad.
New graduates with a bachelor’s degree in International/Global Studies, Political Science, Geography, History, Sociology, Anthropology, Languages, or related social science fields
Experienced professionals in diverse fields looking to accelerate their career through opportunities in California as well as internationally
Those working in the public sector, including federal, state, local, and/or foreign governments
Those working in private sector fields including trade, consulting, finance/banking, and business
Those working in the nonprofit sector such as Nongovernmental Organizations, public interest and advocacy, and higher education
Common job titles in growth areas for graduates in International Affairs include social and community service managers, training and development managers, public relations and fundraising managers, operation research analysts, trade analysts, community development specialists, and immigration advocates.
International careers require specific skills, whether the work is taking place in California, Washington, DC or anywhere else in the world. The MAIA program at CSULB is one of only a small number of professional graduate programs nationwide that is designed to develop these critical skills. Small classes create a focused environment, allowing students to complete their degree in only 18 months. It is also the only program in the country to recognize California's specific role in International Affairs. California is the fifth largest economy in the world, and has more Foreign Direct Investment than most countries. Nearly half of California residents speak a language other than English, larger cities have their own international relations, and even local businesses are globally-engaged. Graduates are well-prepared for jobs in public, private, and non-profit sectors around the world.
Globalization has driven the movement of people, technology, goods, and norms in ways we could have never imagined, creating significant international challenges and opportunities that change the way we live and communicate. The goal of the MA in International Affairs is to provide for the advancement of international understanding by developing skills in areas of economics, politics, trade, development, and migration. By combining multidisciplinary, policy-oriented, intercultural studies with career development, the MAIA prepares students for the global workplace of the 21st century.
While no one specific degree can provide the international pathway, the MAIA is considered a gateway degree for a career in public service and nonprofit sector. While the largest percentage of International Affairs graduates go into the private sector, a disproportionately high percentage of graduates work for governments, nonprofit organizations, think tanks, and universities.
CSULB is a fully accredited program by the Network of Schools of Public Policy Affairs and Administration (NASPAA). All of our full-time faculty have the highest degrees in their fields from highly regarded Universities and have extensive experience in teaching, and research. Our part-time faculty members are highly respected practitioners in the region. For over 23 years, many of our graduates have attained senior managerial and leadership positions in the public and nonprofit sectors. We have a flexible program that will permit you to design a program of study that will help you achieve your particular career goals.
Yes, classes are scheduled in the evenings and on weekends to ensure students can maintain full-time employment.
It is graduate school, so it can be very demanding of your time. It may take time for you to get used to being back in school. But, if you're willing to work hard and manage your time effectively, you should be fine. After all, we have hundreds of graduates who were in the same situation as you, and they were successful.
Generally, for each hour of class time, you can expect two hours of study time per week. A full-time student takes three courses per semester.
The Professional Master of Arts in International Affairs (MAIA) is designed to prepare leaders for a changing world. It combines interdisciplinary, policy-oriented, intercultural and global studies with career development. Through a cohort design, students focus on attaining both the general and specific skills employers demand for the global workforce of the 21st century. This 18-month program includes 12 months in residence, followed by a semester that can be taken either remotely or in residence (international students on a visa will be required to take the courses in residence). U.S. students may take the final two courses through online coursework to allow them to pursue an internship anywhere in the world. Graduates are prepared for local careers of an international nature, national careers, and global careers in areas such as International Business, Trade Policy, International Development & Relief, and Migration Advocacy.
Students must have access to a computer or tablet with a camera and microphone as well as an Internet connection.
Completion of 33 units of approved graduate courses with a 3.0 GPA or better
A graduate GPA of 3.0 or better in the program course requirements.
Successfully complete the culminating activity with a passing grade.
Satisfaction of all university graduation requirements.
Yes, there are six required core courses, three required courses on the students selected track, plus two online courses, and budgets.
No, we have no thesis requirement or comprehensive exams but there is a Capstone Project as part of the MAIA 698 course.
The language requirement is intended to ensure students have this additional tool for the workforce. It is not a unit requirement. The language requirement is commonly met through demonstrated work in a second language, completed language coursework, a certificate from an approved language school, examination, or a letter from a qualified language instructor. Consult with the Program Director for more information.
There is a two-part process. First, you must apply to the University, and second you must apply to the MAIA program.
All graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants must file a complete graduate application as described in the graduate and post-baccalaureate admission materials at Cal State Apply.
Complete and submit the Department application (PDF) along with a statement of purpose and two letters of recommendation.
It can be a current or former professor and/or a current or former supervisor.
The MAIA program admits for Fall semester only. The application deadline is June 1; or April 1 for international applicants.
You would need to apply to the next MAIA cohort.
The process is the same for the Department but not for the University. First, you will need to contact the University's International Admissions Specialist in the Center for International Education.
You will need a 2.7 GPA in your undergraduate coursework from an accredited institution.
If you have at least a 2.5 GPA in the last 60 units of undergraduate coursework, you may be admitted by the University but not the Department.
We look at a number of factors such as the strength of your undergraduate training, the type of courses you took, letters of recommendation, your statement of purpose, and your work history.
Prospective students who have clearly demonstrated substantial professional progress may be given extra consideration in the admission decision.
You have essentially two choices if you want to continue to try to be admitted. First, you may continue to work on your professional progress and reapply in a year or two. Second, you can take additional courses to increase your GPA.
They must be upper level undergraduate or graduate courses from an accredited institution. Further, you should take courses that are related to the study of international affairs. You are encouraged to contact the Program Director for more information.
No, but you may wish to take the quantitative, verbal, and analytical sections and submit the scores to the Department if you do not meet the GPA requirement.
If you have a graduate degree from an accredited graduate school, you automatically meet our GPA requirement but you must still complete the other University and Department requirements.
As noted above, the program requires 33 units. It will take 18 months to complete. Students take three courses per semester for the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. In the final Fall semester students will undertake their internship while taking an online course in budgets and another to guide their capstone projects.
The University requires that students complete graduate programs within seven years.
Yes, unless you take an Educational or Medical Leave. Students who are not enrolled for one or more semesters without an Educational or Medical Leave must reapply to the University.
Students self-register for their courses.
All MAIA students take three courses for the Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions, followed by two online courses in the final Fall semester.
There are no prerequisites for MAIA students.
MAIA students are grouped in cohorts. This means that all members of the cohort will take the same courses in the same sequence. During the summer, the cohort will divide into two tracks.
Electives in the MAIA program are pre-selected by CLA faculty.
First, you must make sure that you have satisfied all the program requirements as stated above for the MAIA and University (see the University Catalog for details). Master’s students must have an approved advancement to candidacy on file. Second, at the same time that you submit your Advancement to Candidacy form, you should Apply to Graduate with Enrollment Services. DLMPA cohort members will advance to candidacy and apply to graduate together as a group.
Please refer to the Advancement to Candidacy form found on the Student Handbooks & Forms page. It is your MAIA program plan. MAIA staff will complete your advancement to candidacy form and the entire cohort will advance together typically during the summer of the first year in the program.
The form is provided by CLA staff.
The MAIA cohort will advance together in the Summer semester of the first year of the program.
CPaCE, Department, and University websites contain most of the information you will need. Further questions can be directed to Caitlin Fouratt, MAIA Program Director, at Caitlin.Fouratt@csulb.edu.
Yes, the MA in International Affairs program offers Graduate Assistantships through The Global Studies Institute. Other Graduate Assistantships are offered on a competitive basis through partnering units at the university. Contact the MAIA Program Director, Professor Caitlin Fouratt, for more information.
Students enrolled in this program are eligible for some forms of financial aid, with the exception of the State University Grant (SUG) and Cal Vet College Fee Waiver.
GI Bill benefits can be used for this program. Click here to learn more about eligibility, rates, and other details.
Instructors
As a truly interdisciplinary program, the Master of Arts in International Affairs curriculum is a collaborative effort by faculty and instructors from several departments across campus.
Featured instructors are listed below. For a full list of faculty in the International Studies program, visit the department website.
Noelan Arbis teaches International Economics in the MAIA program. With extensive experience in global financial markets, Noelan brings a practical approach to topics like trade and monetary policies, leveraging his background as an Economist at HSBC, where he specialized in Asian economies. Noelan holds a Master’s in International Economics from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and is a CFA charterholder.
Noelan Arbis, Professor
Yousef Baker (PhD) specializes in Iraq and Iran, and speaks Arabic and Farsi. His research on “Global Capitalism and Political Control: Investigating the Invasion and Occupation of Iraq” focuses on theories of globalization and development, social movements, nationalism, and questions of race and migration, especially in the Middle East and North Africa. Through this research he demonstrates how processes of globalization have given rise to a structural tension wherein economic circuits of accumulation are transnational, whilst political legitimacy is still confined within the nation-state. Professor Baker has worked as a deputy Economic Advisor in the Office of the Prime Minister of Iraq, and as a Deputy Campaign Manager during Iraqi elections.
Yousef Baker, Professor
Laura Ceia (PhD) specializes in France and the Francophon world, and speaks French and Romanian. Professor Ceia received her MA from The University of Timisoara, Romania in French and Romanian Literature, focusing on early 20th century French literature and cinema. Trained as comparatist, her research interests also include Eastern-European literature and cinema, and contemporary European trans-national cinemas. Her work places a particular emphasis on the intersection between politics and aesthetics, and the role of artifacts in informing, reshaping, or distorting cultural perceptions of citizenship, nationality, and identity. Before joining CSULB, Dr. Ceia taught in French and Film Studies at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Boston University.
Laura Ceia, Professor
Dr. Fouratt is director of the MAIA program, Interim Director of the Global Studies Institute, and Associate Professor of International Studies. She has taught at CSULB since 2014. Dr. Fouratt’s research primarily focuses on transnational migration, particularly within Central America. Her book, Flexible Families: Nicaraguan Transnational Families in Costa Rica, explores the dynamics of Nicaraguan migrants in Costa Rica and their families back in Nicaragua, examining how economic crises, environmental pressures, and government policies reshape care and kinship among transnational families. Her work includes articles published in interdisciplinary journals including the Latin American Research Review and International Migration Review, and a background paper for the UN, State of the World's Women.
Caitlin E. Fouratt, Professor
Barbara Grossman-Thompson (PhD) specializes in Nepal and South Asia, and speaks Nepali, Spanish, and Hindi. As a comparative sociologist with an interest in the political economy of contemporary South Asia, her main areas of inquiry include the gendered organization of labor in South Asia; and the implications of development in the Himalayan region, with an emphasis on Nepal. Her secondary research interest concerns the political economy of migration and diaspora, and current research projects focus on migration as a process shaped by local and global forces, as well as historically dominant and emergent ways of thinking about gender and mobility. She attended San Diego State University for her BA and MA in Women’s Studies.
Barbara Grossman-Thompson, Professor
Liesl Haas is a professor in the Department of Political Science. Her research focuses on Latin American politics, gender and politics, and religion and politics. She holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Liesl Haas, Professor
Dr. Rich Haesly has taught at CSULB since 2001, including graduate and undergraduate courses in American Government, Global Politics, and Scope and Methods of Political Science. His primary research interests are in nationalism and national identities, particularly in developing a theory of “bounded imagined communities,” which views these topics from contemporary political perspectives rather than from a historical standpoint. He also studies the intersection of race, religion, and American politics, with an emphasis on the challenges encountered by multi-ethnic Evangelical churches as they attempt to confront a legacy of white supremacy and racial inequality in their congregations and the larger community. He is interested in issues related to international education, research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, and the role of liberal arts education in the larger society. Dr. Haesly received an MA in Economics from Duke University and a PhD in Political Science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Rich Haesly, Professor
Jeff Leisner is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in health and safety, compliance, finance, and organizational development. He is a strong advocate for leadership development and accountability, bringing a unique background that includes wilderness search and rescue and lean methodologies for organizational improvement. Jeff’s deep expertise in operational capability, leadership, data analytics, and cross-functional collaboration significantly enhances his teaching approach. His dedication to practical problem-solving and mentorship is focused on equipping students for successful careers in international affairs. Joining the MAIA department in 2022, Jeff Leisner is a CSULB alumni who completed his BA in International Studies minoring in Migration Studies as well as his Master's in Public Administration.
Jeff Leisner, Professor
Richard R. Marcus (PhD) has conducted research around the world on the relationships between macro-political institutional change, popular perceptions, and political economic change. In addition to publishing numerous articles and books, Professor Marcus has worked as a political risk manager, and has been a consultant for the World Bank, United Nations Development Program, U.S. Department of State, and many other leading organizations. He completed dual postdoctoral studies in Globalization and Environmental Studies at Yale University, where he was also a Lecturer in Political Science. His degrees include a BA in Great Books (New York University), MA in African Studies/Political Science (UCLA), and PhD in Political Science (University of Florida), as well as certificates in French Language and Civilization (University of Paris), KiSwahili Language (University of Nairobi, Kenya), Malagasy Language (University of Antananarivo, Madagascar), Spanish Language (Antigüeña Academy, Guatemala), and basic K’iche’ (Proyecto Linguistico Quetzalteco, Guatemala).
Richard R. Marcus, Professor
Jolene McCall (PhD) is a sociologist who focuses on energy, development, and the environment. Dr. McCall served in the U.S. Peace Corps in Niger as a community development volunteer (2007-09) and later worked in Kenya developing a literacy curriculum for early childhood education. She has spent many years in the environmental field, including with the U.S. Forest Service and the California Solar Initiative. Her primary area of research is the social dimensions of environmental change, with an emphasis on environmental remediation in the face of anthropogenic climate change. Her dissertation focuses on the global rise of renewable energy and various factors related to countries’ increases in different types of renewable energies. She speaks French, Hausa, and Spanish. She earned a Bachelor in Human Development degree and a Master’s in Social and Cultural Analysis of Education at CSULB.
Jolene McCall, Professor
Julie Mitchell is co-legal director at the Los Angeles-based Central American Resource Center (CARECEN LA) and founder of CARECEN’s College Legal Services.
Julie Mitchell, Professor
Graham F. Odell (PhD) specializes in East Asian politics, especially that of China and Japan. His book, State Reconstitution in China, Japan and East Africa, proposes a new theory of state formation based on case studies from Chinese, Japanese, Ethiopian, and Ugandan history. He also has teaching expertise and research interests in social-science methodology, populism, and party systems. Professor Odell also teaches at Cal Poly, Pomona in the Political Science Department.
Graham F. Odell, Professor
As Executive Director, Dr. Raman oversees the international initiatives for the California State University system. Prior to joining CSU, Dr. Raman was the Assistant Provost for International Affairs at Valparaiso University and an Associate Professor of Economics. Dr. Raman has taught International Economics and Economic Development for over 20 years. He has held teaching assignments in China, India, Colombia, Ecuador and Brazil; and has delivered lectures in Pakistan, Indonesia, and South Korea. Dr. Raman has a BA in Economics from the University of Bombay, an MA from Fordham University, and a PhD from the University of Notre Dame.
Jaishankar Raman, Professor
Khodr Saleh teaches strategy, management, and project management for graduate and undergraduate courses at CSULB. He is a Certified Project Management Professional with a specialty in project management software and systems. He has more than 11 years of experience in the research, development, and manufacturing of medical devices, including several novel and minimally invasive instruments and implantable devices. Khodr is skilled in building the relationships and strategic partnerships needed to move large-scale initiatives forward. He has a proven track record of early R&D programs, successful new product rollout, and extensive knowledge in project management and new product development. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from CSULB.
Khodr Saleh, Professor
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*Note: You will be prevented from enrolling and will receive an error message if attempting to add a course under the following conditions:
currently have an incomplete grade
received a grade of C, B, A or CR
already repeated a course once at CSULB
reached the repeat limit
In these cases, you will need to remove the course from your enrollment request in order to add other courses and complete your registration.
**Note: The Waitlist icon will only display during the waitlist period. Once the Last Day to Waitlist has passed for the term, the class will display a status of Closed.
Undergraduate students are subject to limits of course repetitions allowed during their entire CSULB undergraduate career. If a student attempts to enroll in a class that goes beyond these limits, an error message will appear pertaining to the following situations:
Undergraduate students may repeat courses only if they earned grades lower than a C. An error message will appear if you are attempting to enroll in a class in which you have received a grade of C or higher.
Undergraduate students may take a course no more than two times. After the student has enrolled in the course for the second time, an error message will indicate that the class cannot be repeated because the total number of completed attempts allowed has been exceeded.
Post-baccalaureate and undergraduate students may not re-enroll in a course for which they have received a grade of “I” (Incomplete) until that “I” has been converted to a grade other than “I” (e.g., A-F, CR/NC). An error message will appear if you are attempting to enroll in a class in which you have received an “Incomplete” and it has not yet been resolved.
Enrollment Results
The system will display the status of each enrollment request. Be sure to review the errors and/or messages.
Possible Messages
The class is currently full. You may place yourself on the waitlist (see below for more information about waitlisting).
There is a time conflict between this class and one you are already enrolled in for this term.
A Requirement Designation (GE Indicator) was assigned; these are used to help the degree audit process and require no action on your part.
You have not met the prerequisites or co-requisites for this class. Refer to the message details to see what the requirements are for the course. For further information, refer to the University Catalog or contact the Department.
Enrolling into a Waitlist
Waitlisted classes will count towards your maximum number of units allowed for registration, but you will only be charged for fees based on your number of units "enrolled." Additional charges, if any, will be assessed if you are successfully enrolled from the waitlist.
Note: To see classes that are currently full, uncheck the "Open Classes Only" checkbox. Then you will see all classes offered for a course and can choose to waitlist in ones that are currently full.
To place yourself on the waitlist of a class, check the "Waitlist if class is full" checkbox and then click the "Next" button. If there is no space available in the class, you will be placed on the waitlist unless the waitlist is already full.
If you were placed on a waitlist, a message will be returned indicating your position on the list.
Note: Be sure to update your email address in the Personal Information section. Communications regarding changes to your registration will be emailed to your "Preferred" email address.
Withdrawals
Withdrawals are not permitted during the final week of instruction. Only extenuating circumstances will be considered. Approval from Instructor, Department Chair, Dean and University Provost will be required. Forms must be turned in to Enrollment Services.
On-Demand Info Session
Thank you for your interest in the Master of Arts in International Affairs (MAIA) program at California State University, Long Beach. In the video below, the MAIA program director, Dr. Caitlin Fouratt, provides information about the program, including details about the curriculum, the cohort model, and the benefits of choosing CSULB to advance your education. She also reviews the application process and admission requirements in this video session.
Review the information on this page for up-to-date information about deadlines, application requirements, and tuition and fees.
Ready to connect with Dr. Fouratt? Schedule a one-on-one virtual meeting to talk about the program, your goals, and start your journey at The Beach.
Coverdell Fellowship for Returned Peace Corps Volunteers
Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) bring unique global experiences and perspectives into the classroom—that’s why the Master of Arts in International Affairs (MAIA) program at CSULB is proud to be a Coverdell Fellows partner. This special opportunity provides Fellows with graduate-level support, mentorship, and professional experience while preparing for impactful careers in development, policy, and global advocacy.
The Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program is a nationwide initiative that provides educational and professional opportunities for RPCVs who are pursuing graduate studies. As a Coverdell partner, CSULB offers MAIA Fellows meaningful financial support, a U.S.-based service internship, and guided pathways to public service careers, helping them continue their commitment to community impact while building new skills for international work.
The program is designed to amplify the value of Peace Corps service and support students in translating that experience into long-term professional growth. Eligible applicants will be reviewed by the MAIA admissions committee and a separate Coverdell Fellowship review group, which considers fit, experience, and potential contributions to the field.
Coverdell Fellows benefit from:
Graduate assistantship support
U.S.-based internships that support underserved communities
Close mentorship, advising, and academic support
Stipend for books
Federal hiring eligibility through Peace Corps NCE
Returned Peace Corps Volunteers earn lifetime eligibility for the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows program if they fall into one of the following categories:
Peace Corps Volunteers who complete the full tour of Peace Corps service or are otherwise given “completion of service” (COS) status
Peace Corps Volunteers who are medically separated
Peace Corps Volunteers who are given "interrupted service" status because of circumstances beyond their control
Peace Corps Response Volunteers or Advancing Health Professionals who complete 12 months of service within a 24-month period
Exception: The 12-month requirement was waived for all Peace Corps Response Volunteers evacuated in March 2020 due to COVID-19
Volunteers who resign or are administratively separated are not eligible for Coverdell Fellows unless they had already earned eligibility through a previous Peace Corps tour.
EmailDr. Caitlin Fouratt,Program Director & Coverdell Coordinator, at caitlin.fouratt@csulb.edu. Indicate your interest in Coverdell in a cover letter and include your Description of Service (DOS) or a letter from your country director.
Submit your full MAIA application by the priority deadline in mid-February.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Caitlin Fouratt, Program Director & Coverdell Coordinator, at caitlin.fouratt@csulb.edu.
Master of Arts in International Affairs
Application Period:
Fall 2027
Application Opens:
October 1, 2026
Application Deadline:
June 1, 2027 (Priority deadline: February 15, 2027)
Cost:
$515 per unit / $1,545 per 3-unit course*
Total Program Cost:
$16,995
Location:
Hybrid
*Fees listed are for the 2026-27 academic year and are subject to change.
