Why MSFS
MSFS seeks to educate and equip the next generation of international affairs leaders. Through a rigorous curriculum of historical, political, social, cultural, and economic studies, MSFS challenges students to both understand theory and history and apply their knowledge to bring impactful change. We do this while also instilling a commitment to service in the international community and an appreciation for the ethical dimension of international affairs.
MSFS: Living Our Values
In keeping with Georgetown’s Jesuit values and emphasis on cura personalis – care for the whole person – we uphold the following values. We provide opportunities for our students to develop and practice these values inside and outside the classroom, and throughout their careers.
Leadership
Members of the MSFS community lead others with integrity, ethics and purpose. We define leadership as the ability to work cooperatively and respectfully with others to develop a vision, articulate concrete goals and strategies, and implement positive change. This requires self-awareness, humility, and multicultural competence.
Creativity
Members of the MSFS community think and act creatively in their personal and professional lives. The proliferation of new technologies, new actors, and new patterns of behavior in the international arena requires us to use our imaginations and embrace new ideas, new partners and new solutions. We define creativity as thinking outside established paradigms and solving problems with flexibility and consideration of multiple approaches to a single issue.
Ethics
The MSFS community brings integrity, character and sound moral judgement to every task. Members of our community consider, respect, and value diverse perspectives. We examine our own assumptions and oppose bias in all forms. We believe every student must understand and appreciate different moral frameworks, be able to articulate competing perspectives, and recognize and balance the merits of competing priorities.
Service
The MSFS community serves others. We define service as helping others at the local, national and global levels, including the most vulnerable and disadvantaged. MSFS promotes civic engagement and the pursuit of social justice in all its students, and a lifelong dedication to serving the greater global community.
Inclusion
The MSFS community is inclusive. Our community recognizes that listening to diverse voices improves our ability to understand and lead. We advocate for greater empowerment of underrepresented groups and work to remove unjust barriers in civic and professional spheres. We promote equity in opportunities, outcomes, solutions, and growth for all persons.