Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs APSIA

Overview

The Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA) is a non-profit educational organization comprising leading graduate schools specializing in international affairs. Established in 1989, APSIA aims to advance international understanding, prosperity, peace and security through professional education and research. As of 2025, the association includes 40 full members and 30 affiliate schools worldwide. APSIA serves as a collaborative platform for its members, promoting excellence in education and fostering connections among students, alumni and professionals in the field of international affairs.

History and Legal Framework

The origins of APSIA trace back to the mid-1970s when deans and directors from prominent schools of international affairs began informal discussions on enhancing student preparation for professional careers in the field. These discussions led to a comparative analysis of curricula with support from the Exxon Education Foundation. Building upon recommendations from a 1987 study by Robert Goheen, former president of Princeton University, APSIA was officially incorporated as a non-profit organization on April 13, 1989. The first president was Jeswald Salacuse of Tufts University. Since its inception, APSIA has operated as a non-profit entity under U.S. federal law, with its international secretariat located at the Cyberport in Hong Kong.

Mission, Vision and Objectives

Mission: APSIA's mission is to advance international understanding, prosperity, peace and security through the people and ideas shaped by its member schools. The association is dedicated to improving professional education in international affairs and fostering global cooperation.

Vision: To be a premier alliance of graduate schools in international affairs, serving as a catalyst for positive change by equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address global challenges.

Objectives:

• Promote excellence in international affairs education worldwide.
• Facilitate the exchange of information and ideas among member schools and with other institutions of higher education.
• Represent the interests of professional international affairs education in national and international forums.
• Provide resources and support for students, graduates and faculty members, including career services, networking opportunities and research funding.
• Encourage diversity, equity and inclusion within the international affairs community.

Governance, Structure and Independence

APSIA operates as a decentralized network, with each member institution maintaining its autonomy while participating in collective initiatives. The association is governed by a Board of Directors composed of representatives from member institutions. The Chief Executive Officer oversees the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of APSIA. The association's independence is maintained through its non-profit status and the voluntary participation of its member institutions, allowing it to uphold its mission without external influence.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

APSIA does not serve as an accrediting body but plays a significant role in promoting quality assurance within its member institutions. The association encourages the adoption of best practices in education and research, facilitates peer evaluations and supports the development of joint programs that adhere to high academic standards. Through its collaborative initiatives, APSIA contributes to the enhancement of educational quality and the alignment of curricula with regional and international expectations.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

APSIA actively engages in international cooperation to broaden the scope and impact of its initiatives. The association is a member of several regional and international networks, including the European League of Institutes of the Arts (ELIA) and the International Association of Universities and Colleges of Art, Design and Media (CUMULUS). These affiliations enable APSIA to participate in broader discussions on higher education policy, research funding and academic mobility, thereby enhancing the global presence of its member institutions.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

APSIA continues to impact higher education by promoting collaboration among universities, enhancing the quality of education and advocating for social justice. Through its initiatives, the association contributes to the development of joint academic programs, enhances research capabilities and promotes cultural exchange. Looking forward, APSIA aims to expand its network, increase the number of collaborative projects and strengthen its role in shaping the future of higher education in the international affairs field.

Summary

The Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs is a key organization in fostering academic, scientific and cultural cooperation among graduate schools specializing in international affairs. Through its collaborative initiatives, APSIA enhances the quality of education, promotes research excellence and contributes to the sustainable development of the international affairs community. Its commitment to international cooperation and adherence to high academic standards position APSIA as a significant player in the landscape of global higher education.

FAQs

• What is APSIA? APSIA is a non-profit organization comprising leading graduate schools specializing in international affairs, dedicated to advancing global understanding and cooperation.
• When was APSIA founded? APSIA was founded in 1989 to promote excellence in international affairs education and foster collaboration among member institutions.
• Does APSIA provide accreditation? No, APSIA does not serve as an accrediting body but encourages best practices and quality assurance among its member institutions.
• Where is APSIA headquartered? APSIA's international secretariat is located at the Cyberport in Hong Kong.
• Is APSIA involved in international networks? Yes, APSIA is a member of several regional and international networks, enhancing the global presence of its member institutions.
• What is the APSIA Exchange Program? The APSIA Exchange Program allows students from member institutions to study for a semester at another APSIA-affiliated school, promoting academic and cultural exchange.

Organization Name

Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs

Acronym

APSIA

Year of Establishment

1/01/1989

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

International

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

3101 Van Munching Hall
College Park
20742 Maryland United States

Phone

+1 (301) 405 4754

Fax

+1 (301) 403 4675

n.a.

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Wikipedia Article

Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs's Wikipedia article

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