The IPSS Program is offered in the Spring semester, with two weekend fall workshops, 6 months of on-site work with an international organization (February-July), and a closing two-week session in August. It is recommended that students go on IPSS when they are in their 3rd or 4th semester.

2. Who is eligible for IPSS?

This program is for highly motivated, academically prepared, and well qualified students that display exceptional commitment to their academic work and have proven interests in working at an international governmental or nongovernmental organization.

All students enrolled in the Graduate School of International Policy Studies degree programs are eligible to apply. Students in a special degree program (ITP, IEP, MPA) must have approval from the respective program heads.

Both International and U.S students are eligible. International students may be subject to certain visa requirements depending upon the assignment.

3. Is there funding for the program?

GSIPS provides no funding for any aspect of the IPSS program. Participating students pay tuition for one semester (12 credits) and in return receive faculty supervision of the academic offerings and assignments outlined above. In addition to tuition, students cover expenses of travel airfare, rent, and other living expenses.

Participating students may apply for a loan through the Monterey Institute's Office of Student Financial Planning for expected expenses while on assignment. Loans are approved by the Office of Student Financial Planning in consultation with the IPSS Director.

Organizations are asked to facilitate the locating of appropriate housing for the student, and any other assistance they deem appropriate.

4. How do participants select an organization?

The focus of the work of the organization must be international or transnational. One of the key selection criteria is that the assignment fits academic specialization of the participating student. GSIPS faculty advisors or career officers are available to assist in identifying an appropriate organization.

Participating students may wish to go to a specific region or country. The "language of work" in that organization/country may have a direct impact on whether a student is accepted into the program. Local NGOs and local/national branches of IGOs may require specific languages of work.

Also consider visa needs. Check with the relevant embassy websites for the countries in which organizations are located. We encourage you to view our list of tips for choosing an organization.

5. What types of positions are available?

There are positions available in many different fields of international policy. Please see the list of previous IPSS participants to learn more about types of positions available.

6. How can I connect with past IPSS fellows?

Current IPSS fellows, IPSS alumni, and those interested in the learning about the program can email ipssinfo@miis.edu for more information.

7. If I am accepted as an IPSS Fellow, what are my next steps?

All fellows attend a welcoming orientation in the spring. At this meeting, the IPSS Team explains the placement process and provides financial information. Fellows are also asked to sign a letter of intent to demonstrate their committment to the program. While the IPSS Team begins the placement process, this leaves some down time during the summer for fellows. However, some documents and other requirements can be completed during this time. A list of campus contacts will help you identify some of these key areas of concern for fellows.

For additional information about the IPSS program, please contact:
Sabrina Atwater, Career and Special Programs Director
Carolyn Taylor, Special Programs Manager
Dave Moorer and Bridget Nuxoll, Program Coordinators
ipssinfo@miis.edu
(831) 647-6417