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Certificate in Global Affairs

Declare Candidacy

Navigate global issues and lead in a rapidly changing global environment

Today’s global issues—from terrorism and immigration to the global economy, climate change, and human rights—have both subtle and significant implications in our lives. The importance of having an understanding of today’s global issues cannot be overstated.

Whether you seek to prepare for a career in the international arena or you desire more in-depth knowledge of the topics you care about, our comprehensive course offerings in the Certificate in Global Affairs cover a variety of critical sectors and provide you with an opportunity to explore topics most relevant to your goals and to become an informed professional in the global arena. Our courses are taught by industry experts who bring their real-world experience and networks to the classroom to ensure exposure to current trends and practical knowledge.

Courses are scheduled to meet the needs of working professionals and are offered during evenings and weekends. To earn the Certificate, you must successfully complete the two required courses and four of the seven elective courses. Virtual completion will be available even after onsite courses resume. Declared Certificate students receive a 10% discount on courses within the program.

For more information about the Certificate in Global Affairs, please contact Robert Lesko at rl10@nyu.edu.

Navigate global issues and lead in a rapidly changing global environment

Format

Online

Requirements

6 courses

Estimated Total Certificate Cost

$4,200-$4,749*

*Based on course prices for AY 25-26, subject to change.

18 formally dressed individuals sit around a large table with a map of the world on it, each representing a different country -- suggesting international collaboration or communication.

Why This Certificate?

Broaden Your Understanding of Global Challenges

This program equips you with the tools to analyze and address critical global issues such as international security, diplomacy, and economic development. Gain the knowledge needed to navigate complex international landscapes effectively.

 

Learn From Industry Experts and Practitioners

Engage with experienced professionals and scholars who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. Their insights and practical approaches ensure you’re prepared to tackle global challenges with confidence and clarity.

 

Leverage Your Expertise for a Global Career

Expand your professional skills for a global context. This program helps you build on your existing expertise by providing knowledge and understanding of critical global issues and that will allow you to better navigate and anticipate the demands of a more interconnected world.

 

Prepare for Careers in International Organizations

If your goal is to work with global organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, or international NGOs, this certificate provides foundational knowledge of the global arena. From understanding global governance to navigating cross-cultural collaboration, you’ll make a meaningful impact.

 

What You'll Study

TWO REQUIRED COURSES
International Relations

Gain an in-depth understanding of the post-Cold War world order and the Cold War’s impact on current geopolitical and economic landscapes.

Fall 2025
International Political Economy

Gain a better understanding of the state of the world economy and the opportunities and challenges posed by international economic interdependence.
ELECTIVES - SELECT 4
Disaster Preparedness and Humanitarian Assistance

In order to achieve the key UN Sustainable Development goals of "No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Good Health and Wellbeing, Gender Equality, Clean...

Fall 2025
Foundations of Clean Energy

Gain foundational knowledge of the cleantech landscape, as well as of electricity generation, distribution, and transition.

Fall 2025
Foundations of Transnational Security

Explore new national and international security challenges, including terrorism, failed states, environmental disasters, and public health crises.
Gender in International Affairs

Gain a broad, multidisciplinary overview of gender in international affairs, drawing upon examples from international, national, and local contexts.
Human Rights and Development

A rights-based approach to development has become increasingly central in explaining and addressing the underlying issues related to economic,...

Summer 2025
International Criminal Law and Human Rights

Gain a critical introduction to international criminal justice and examine the sources, systems, and foundations of international criminal law.
International Development

Explore the main elements of country development—from economic, political, social, cultural, and environmental perspectives.

Fall 2025
Peacemaking and Peacebuilding

Explore contemporary methods for peacemaking and peacebuilding as responses to real and potential deadly international conflicts.

Summer 2025

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Certificate Specifics

A Certificate in Global Affairs prepares students for a variety of roles in international organizations, government agencies, nonprofits, and the private sector. It provides a strong foundation for careers requiring a deep understanding of global systems, cross-cultural communication, and strategic problem-solving.

This program will provide a foundation of core topics, concepts, and frameworks covered in our MS in Global Affairs program and can be useful to those considering graduate programs in related areas.

 

Samples of titles might include:

  • Program Manager/Coordinator – Design and implement development programs in areas such as health, education, or economic growth.

  • Sustainable Development Consultant – Advise on strategies to promote sustainability and equitable growth.

  • Advocacy Specialist – Work on behalf of nonprofits or global organizations to promote international policies.

  • International Business Development Manager – Identify opportunities and strategies for expansion in global markets.

  • Grants Manager – Secure and manage funding for international programs.

There is no required sequence for courses, however, it is suggested that students take one of the two required courses in the first semester. The required courses typically alternate being offered in the fall and spring semesters and elective offerings rotate throughout the academic year.

Courses are designed for working professionals. Expected time commitments vary by course and familiarity with course content but students generally report that they spend 2-4 hours per week on coursework outside of class time on average.

 

Contact sps.global.affairs@nyu.edu

 

General Certificate FAQ

It’s preferable if you do, but you can still declare candidacy even after taking a course. Declaring candidacy does not commit you to completing it, but you will receive a 10% discount on future NYU SPS continuing education courses.

 

Assuming the course is part of the certificate, yes, but only if the course was taken within an acceptable time frame. The academic department gives students a specific amount of time to complete a certificate. The start date would be adjusted to the first class to which we applied the discount.  

 

Yes, if a student declares candidacy for a certificate and achieves an average overall grade of B or higher in courses counting toward the certificate, they will be awarded a certificate badge upon completion, which will be shareable on their resume and LinkedIn profile.

 

No, continuing education courses and certificates do not qualify for financial aid. 

 

Most continuing education programs do not count as credit toward a degree.

 

Please contact sps.info@nyu.edu.