The Global Affairs and Development Concentration examines the economic, social and political challenges that impact development worldwide. Students study topics such as poverty, inequality, sustainable development and international aid, gaining insights into how global policies shape progress in different regions. This concentration equips students for careers in international development, non-governmental organizations and global policy, where they can contribute to solving complex global issues and promoting sustainable growth.

Quick Facts

Tuition
On-campus: $10,035/yr*
Online: $11,580/yr*
Duration
4 years
Credit Hours
120

Calendar

Don't miss an important date or deadline

Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar

Now Enrolling

Apply by Date:
August 10, 2026

Start Date:
August 24, 2026

Apply Today!

Tuition & Aid

UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.

Tuition Estimates

On-campus $10,035/yr*
Online $11,580/yr*

Based on 120 credit hours over 4 years.

*These numbers represent an estimate of the in-state tuition cost for this program and do not include fees. To get an estimate of the full cost of attendance check out the cost of attendance page and/or use the tuition calculator.

Admissions

Applying to UIS is simple

We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.

 

Review admission requirements

No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.

International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.

Complete your application

An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.

Send your official transcripts

Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Submit required statements/writing sample

If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on your application status page.

Pay your application fee

You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.

Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;

International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.

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Courses & Catalog Information

Career Outlook & Potential Earnings

Graduates of this program may find opportunities in the following careers. Data sourced from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Government Property Inspectors and Investigators

Investigate or inspect government property to ensure compliance with contract agreements and government regulations.

Median Annual Wage $80,730
Wage Range $48,220 – $133,720
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Judgment and Decision Making
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree, Post-secondary certificate

Political Scientists

Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governme

Median Annual Wage $142,080
Wage Range $83,350 – $195,190
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Learning
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Doctoral degree, Master’s degree, Post-doctoral training

Chief Executives

Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan,

Median Annual Wage $213,990
Wage Range $75,700 – $507,730
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
Typical Education: Master’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree

Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs

Determine eligibility of persons applying to receive assistance from government programs and agency resources, such as welfare, unemployment benefits, social security, and public housing.

Median Annual Wage $54,210
Wage Range $38,900 – $74,690
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Speaking
  • Active Listening
  • Reading Comprehension
Typical Education: High school diploma or equivalent, Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree

Financial and Investment Analysts

Bright Outlook

Conduct quantitative analyses of information involving investment programs or financial data of public or private institutions, including valuation of businesses.

Median Annual Wage $102,740
Wage Range $63,720 – $180,860
Projected Growth Bright

Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in political science, international affairs, and international relations. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Median Annual Wage $98,070
Wage Range $56,450 – $174,660
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Speaking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Learning
Typical Education: Doctoral degree, Master’s degree
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