Tufts University, The Fletcher School - Graduate School of International Affairs : Rankings, Fees & Courses Details | TopUniversities
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About Tufts University, The Fletcher School - Graduate School of International Affairs

The Fletcher School at Tufts University, founded in 1933, is a premier graduate school of global affairs, offering interdisciplinary and multi-sectoral study, research, and practice of international affairs, law, and business. It is ranked among the top 5 in the world by policymakers in Foreign Policy Magazine. Emphasizing real-world experience and a global perspective, Fletcher’s impact is exemplified by its global network of more than 11,000 alumni in 148 countries, many of whom have held prominent positions in government, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector. With a mission to educate leaders and advance solutions through government, business, and civil society, Fletcher works at the intersection of the most complex global challenges in a constantly evolving and interconnected world.

As a member of the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs, Fletcher is recognized for excellence in providing a career-focused, graduate-level, international affairs education. Faculty, who are sought-after experts and practitioners in their fields, are part of a research culture that examines cutting-edge questions and challenges across the globe. Fletcher has particular depth in technology policy, sustainable development, global governance, conflict resolution, diplomacy, security studies, and the digital economy.

With rigorous and flexible master’s degrees and Ph.D. programs, offerings for every career stage, and 10 areas of specialization, students can personalize their education to career interests.

International Affairs Master’s Degrees:

·        Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy

·        Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy: International and Development Economics (STEM-designated)

·        Master of Global Affairs

·        Master of Arts in Global Affairs (Mid-career)

·        Global Master of Arts Program (Executive, online)

International Business Master’s Degrees:

·        Master of International Business

·        Master of International Business: Quantitative Methods (STEM-designated)

·        Master of Global Business Administration (Mid-career, online)

International Affairs Specialized Degrees:

·        Master of Laws in International Law

·        Master of Arts in Transatlantic Affairs

·        Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Public Policy (STEM-designated)

As part of most degree programs, students choose one or two (based on the degree) areas of specialization, including international security, conflict resolution, international economics, sustainable development, gender and intersectional analysis, global governance, technology policy, human security, international business, and global politics. Faculty also specialize in fields of study, providing students a seamless, cross-cutting education that prepares them for real-world impact.

Students apply academic knowledge through a range of experiential learning opportunities, from internships, capstones, and practicums to global treks, local and global conferences, competitions, career trips to New York City and Washington D.C., and research experiences. Fletcher has nine research centers and five interdisciplinary research programs. Further, the exceptionally diverse student body (~50% international) from more than 75 countries enriches and informs the experience inside and outside of the classroom, while Fletcher’s unmatched global network serves as an enduring source of collaboration, mentorship, and opportunity. In 2024, 96% of students found meaningful work within six months of graduation.

Fletcher’s Tufts University campus is located in Medford, Massachusetts, in the United States just outside of Boston—ranked by QS World Rankings as the top 15th city for students. Boston is rich in history and multicultural vibrance. It is also an innovative and entrepreneurial hub, home to top universities, international organizations, and cutting-edge industries for unmatched pathways of professional growth.

About Tufts University, The Fletcher School - Graduate School of International Affairs

The Fletcher School at Tufts University, founded in 1933, is a premier graduate school of global affairs, offering interdisciplinary and multi-sectoral study, research, and practice of international affairs, law, and business. It is ranked among the top 5 in the world by policymakers in Foreign Policy Magazine. Emphasizing real-world experience and a global perspective, Fletcher’s impact is exemplified by its global network of more than 11,000 alumni in 148 countries, many of whom have held prominent positions in government, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector. With a mission to educate leaders and advance solutions through government, business, and civil society, Fletcher works at the intersection of the most complex global challenges in a constantly evolving and interconnected world.

As a member of the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs, Fletcher is recognized for excellence in providing a career-focused, graduate-level, international affairs education. Faculty, who are sought-after experts and practitioners in their fields, are part of a research culture that examines cutting-edge questions and challenges across the globe. Fletcher has particular depth in technology policy, sustainable development, global governance, conflict resolution, diplomacy, security studies, and the digital economy.

With rigorous and flexible master’s degrees and Ph.D. programs, offerings for every career stage, and 10 areas of specialization, students can personalize their education to career interests.

International Affairs Master’s Degrees:

·        Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy

·        Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy: International and Development Economics (STEM-designated)

·        Master of Global Affairs

·        Master of Arts in Global Affairs (Mid-career)

·        Global Master of Arts Program (Executive, online)

International Business Master’s Degrees:

·        Master of International Business

·        Master of International Business: Quantitative Methods (STEM-designated)

·        Master of Global Business Administration (Mid-career, online)

International Affairs Specialized Degrees:

·        Master of Laws in International Law

·        Master of Arts in Transatlantic Affairs

·        Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Public Policy (STEM-designated)

As part of most degree programs, students choose one or two (based on the degree) areas of specialization, including international security, conflict resolution, international economics, sustainable development, gender and intersectional analysis, global governance, technology policy, human security, international business, and global politics. Faculty also specialize in fields of study, providing students a seamless, cross-cutting education that prepares them for real-world impact.

Students apply academic knowledge through a range of experiential learning opportunities, from internships, capstones, and practicums to global treks, local and global conferences, competitions, career trips to New York City and Washington D.C., and research experiences. Fletcher has nine research centers and five interdisciplinary research programs. Further, the exceptionally diverse student body (~50% international) from more than 75 countries enriches and informs the experience inside and outside of the classroom, while Fletcher’s unmatched global network serves as an enduring source of collaboration, mentorship, and opportunity. In 2024, 96% of students found meaningful work within six months of graduation.

Fletcher’s Tufts University campus is located in Medford, Massachusetts, in the United States just outside of Boston—ranked by QS World Rankings as the top 15th city for students. Boston is rich in history and multicultural vibrance. It is also an innovative and entrepreneurial hub, home to top universities, international organizations, and cutting-edge industries for unmatched pathways of professional growth.

Available programmes

University information

Fletcher seeks to enroll students who have demonstrated academic excellence, bring a wide range of personal, professional, and academic experience, and maintain a strong commitment to an international career. We seek students who, by virtue of their background, achievement, and experience, can contribute to the education of their peers and to the scholarship and practice of international relations.

Learn more about the admissions process, dates, how to apply, FAQs, and contacting an admissions representative. 


Campus

Fletcher is part of Tufts University—a top-tier, highly selective research university. From a picturesque hilltop in Medford, Massachusetts in the USA overlooking Boston, students enjoy a classic New England college environment with access to a variety of resources to make their experience memorable.

 

Location

The greater Boston area is an innovative hub of technology, environmental research, international finance, security and global healthcare. Whether your career interests lie in biotech, the defense sector, academic research, or starting your own business, Boston has the ecosystem to support you.

 

The Greater Boston area is also an academic hub with 50+ colleges and universities, making it an intellectually rich environment with unparalleled access to expertise and faculty.

 

A recent (2023) Gallup poll found that of the 16 largest cities, Americans ranked Boston as the second safest to live and visit. Additionally, QS World Rankings 2026 rated Boston as the 15th top city for students.

 

Research

The Fletcher School has 14 research centers and programs focused on:

Climate, Energy, Water

Global Diplomacy

Economy

International Security

Technology Policy

Human Security, Humanitarian Affairs, Gender, Migration

Russia, East Asia, and the Middle East

Conflict Resolution

 

Academic resources

The Edwin Ginn Library is a vibrant center for study and research on campus. Students can browse their extensive collections, find a place to study, and get help with research.

 

The StAAR Center for academic support helps students with study skills, time management, and accessing academic accommodations. 

 

Health, fitness, and recreation 

Tufts University athletics facilities are open to the entire community. Break a sweat at the Steve Tisch Sports and Fitness Center, swim at Tufts' Hamilton Pool, or join student clubs like Fletcher Fútbol. Stay active with classes in yoga, pilates, tennis, spinning, and rock climbing.

 

Comprehensive support services

Tufts is committed to supporting students’ well-being and offers numerous health, well-being, and parenting resources:

 

  • Tufts Counseling and Mental Health Service: Confidential support for mental health and well-being.
  • Tufts Health Service: Comprehensive health services to keep you feeling your best.
  • Office of Health Promotion and Prevention: Physical well-being and recovery resources for a balanced lifestyle.
  • Parental Resources: Tailored support for those navigating the unique challenges and joys of parenthood.

Dining

There’s no shortage of great food when you’re at Fletcher. The campus is a short walk away from Davis Square and its many restaurants, or you can hop on the public transportation subway to enjoy world-class dining and international fare in Boston and Cambridge.  

 

Tufts Dining Services operates several dining halls and cafes on campus. The university can connect students with food resources to support their diet and lifestyle. 

 

Spirituality 

With its location in the Boston area, Fletcher is surrounded by many different places of worship. University Chaplaincy is also a hub of spiritual life on campus. 

 

Housing

Boston is one of the biggest university cities in the world, and students find comfortable housing around the city and surrounding area. Fletcher also offers on-campus housing for graduate students in degree-seeking programs. Housing on Packard Avenue is only one block from Fletcher's classrooms, Ginn Library, Mugar Computer Lab, Mugar Café, the Campus Center, and Fletcher Field. 

 

Student employment

Fletcher is part Tufts University, a top-tier, R1, research university, meaning students can find numerous opportunities to work at Tufts. Many of these positions reside within Fletcher’s research centers, and campus employers recognize that students are, first and foremost, a students.

Student life

Students join a curious, energetic, and inspired community. 

 

Student clubs

Connect with peers with shared professional or cultural interests, from culinary diplomacy to political risk, Women in International Security to Pride at Fletcher. Fletcher has about 30 student clubs and organizations driven by student interest.

 

Cultural Nights

At monthly culture nights, students can celebrate the wealth of experiences–and cuisine–that classmates bring to campus. The annual Diplomats’ Ball formal celebrates the conclusion of a stellar year.

 

Student competitions and exercises

There are numerous student competitions to learn, engage, and network. Some examples include Student Moot Court, ISSP Strategic Competitions, Tufts Idea Competition, Fletcher D- Prize, Kellogg-Morgan Stanley Sustainable Development Challenge, Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge, Climate Negotiation Simulation, Jessup International Moot Court Competition, Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition, Jean-Pictet Competition, NATO Student Challenge, and Red Team.

 

Industry conferences

Students learn outside of the classroom. Represent Fletcher at industry events and conferences like Climate COP, Arctic Circle Conferences, UN Water Initiative or gain experience convening your own event with Fletcher’s support.

 

Spring break abroad

Embark on global learning adventures with a student-run Trek per year. Students recently spent spring break in Oman, Greece, and Israel where they learned from and connected with esteemed alumni and field experts.

 

Field immersions

Students in the mid-career online master’s business and global affairs programs participate in two in-person immersions, one is held internationally (recently India and Greece) and one at Tufts.

Cost of Living

Off-Campus Housing

Most students live within a three-mile radius of the campus in the cities of Medford and Somerville, however some of our students choose to commute from as far as our neighboring New England states!

It is important to note that most leases in Greater Boston are on a September 1 lease cycle. Most new and veteran Bostonians find it easiest to find an apartment if they start looking for a new lease in May or June.

  • Per person share of 2+ bedroom house (average rent in Medford/Somerville): $700 - $1,000, not including utilities
  • One-bedroom or studio apartment (average rent in Medford/Somerville): $1,450

The Office of Residential Life provides more information and resources for students seeking off-campus housing.    

On-Campus Housing

All full-time first year graduate students are eligible to apply for transitional on-campus graduate student housing. A limited number of rooms are available for graduate students, located in three buildings on the southern edges of the campus. Each residence has a common room or lounge and shared bathrooms. One kitchen is available in each house and is shared with all of the occupants of each house.

There are currently limited available spaces in graduate housing.

  • All residence rooms are single units coming equipped with a twin XL bed frame/mattress, desk and desk chair, closet/wardrobe, and drawer set. 
  • Please see the Residential Life & Learning's site for room rates, which vary depending on the room size. 
  • Eligible graduate students may apply for housing through the Residential Life Office by submitting an application via the Housing Portal (accessible via SIS). 

Please note that Tufts cannot provide housing for couples or children.

Explore Tufts’ Neighborhoods

Tufts is in a unique position to provide graduate students with the vibrancy of metropolitan Boston and the close-knit on-campus community of the Medford campus. Graduate students enjoy easy access to the bustling cities of Cambridge and Boston. Additionally, the surrounding neighborhoods of Medford and Somerville afford students with a myriad of cultural, artistic, and community-friendly events and activities.

Tuition fees

Tuition for in-person full-time programs is approximately $59,000/year

Over 90% of applicants who request scholarship support receive it.

Financial aid is based on merit and demonstrated need.

A low-interest loan program is available for international students who have been accepted at Fletcher. U.S. citizens are eligible for federal loans.

A wide variety of scholarships are available. It is recommended that students cultivate a comprehensive portfolio approach to funding their education to ensure a seamless experience.

External scholarship and support resources. 

Scholarships

Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.

To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:

Employability

While many Fletcher alumni use their degree to pursue a career in the non-profit sector, most graduates forge paths in the public and private sectors, finding meaningful employment as business consultants, professors, and researchers with an array of employers. In fact, 96% of our graduates find meaningful employment within 6 months.

 

In a typical year Fletcher has:

350 employer and professional events

2,500 internships, fellowships, and job listings

1,000 one-on-one career coaching sessions

 

Our graduates go on to pursue roles in public, private and civil society,  including 38% in the public sector, 32% in the private sector, and 30% in civil society.  They hold varied roles within each of those sectors such as:

 

Public sector roles

Non-US government

US federal

State/local

 

Private sector roles

Business consulting

Finance

Energy

Development consulting

 

Civil society sector roles

Education

Research/Think Tank

Energy/Environment

Charitable organizations

 

Recent employer examples by sector are as follows:

 

Public: Japan Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Greece, European

Commission, Indian Ministry of Defense, The European Union Delegation to the United

States, State of California, State of Minnesota, State of Massachusetts, US Army, US

Department of Defense, US Senate, US Dept. of State

 

Private: Amazon Web Services, Ball Consulting Group, Boeing, Booz Allen Hamilton,

Deloitte, Eversource Energy, Goldman Sachs, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center,

Pricewaterhouse Coopers, The Berkshire Group

 

Civil society: Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, CDP, Center for Climate and

Energy Solutions, Council on Foreign Relations, International Institute for Environmental

and Development, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, National Security Institute, United Nations Foundation

 

Intergovernmental: International Atomic Energy Agency, NATO, UN, World Bankional Atomic Energy Agency, NATO, UN, World Bank

Through comprehensive programming and personalized services, Fletcher’s Office of Professional Development (OPD) helps students navigate the job and internship search process and find meaningful employment. 

 

Examples of 2025 and 2024 internships include: The Wilson Center, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Africa Bureau, Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, U.S. Department of State, Forward Horizon Group, United States Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, United Nations, European Public Law Organization (EPLO), Amazon, Accenture, Deloitte, Tesla, PwC, and EY.

 

On campus, students can receive assistance with:

  • Exploring different industries and job functions
  • Networking with employers
  • Alumni engagement during our flagship programming
  • Preparing for interviews
  • Individual coaching
  • Professional development programming
  • Industry and sector-specific resources and events
  • Skills-based and industry-specific workshops
  • Connecting with job and internship opportunities
  • Leveraging OPD-sponsored subscription services 

Additionally, Fletcher alumni carry their pride off campus and support each other in and out of the institution. Highly positioned alumni are passionate about hiring and connecting with students. Fletcher offers annual Washington D.C. and New York City Career Trips with site visits and networks. Alumni events are also held on and off campus.

Rankings & Ratings

Tufts University, The Fletcher School - Graduate School of International Affairs is one of the top universities in Medford, United States. It is ranked #12 in QS International Trade Ranking - Masters and MBA 2026.

QS International Trade Ranking - Masters and MBA

  • 2026
    #12

QS International Trade Ranking - Masters and MBA

  • 2026
    #12

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Frequently Asked Questions

Each year Fletcher graduates accept challenging positions in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, as well as with international organizations. Fletcher prepares students for careers in applied research, business, development, economics, foreign affairs, international law, and policy analysis. 

  • Fletcher's location provides the friendliness and vitality of a classic college town and the urban influence of nearby Boston. Boston is an academic and intellectual capital, home to some of the greatest universities in the world, the headquarters of many NGOs and non-profits, a center for international business and finance, a centerpiece of US history, and a diverse, multicultural, safe, and livable community.
  • From Fidelity Investments to Oxfam America to numerous consular offices, Boston offers a wealth of professional opportunities, and the city is a global hub of bio-tech, robotics, and multinational corporations. Many of the world’s leading private, public, and nonprofit organizations maintain their headquarters in Boston, providing Fletcher students with invaluable resources to find internships and employment, and to establish professional networks. The Boston area boasts the largest concentration of international students in the world, providing an unparalleled environment for study and research.

Fletcher's curriculum is oriented toward providing students with the functional expertise they need for global careers. Although most fields of study are organized around functional themes, the school also supports regional interests through coursework, comparative case studies, faculty and student research, and overseas internships.

Nearly half of Fletcher's students come from outside the U.S. At any time, sixty or more countries worldwide are represented. The average age of students is generally around 28. The fall entering class typically has students ranging in age from 21 to 55. The student to faculty ratio is 5:1, and the average class size is 17.

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