Erskine College to Launch Master of Arts Degree
The South Carolina institution will introduce an online international studies program in fall 2027.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Language Learning
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Beginning in fall 2027, Erskine College will launch a new one-year Master of Arts in International Studies degree program. The primarily online curriculum focuses on practical skills such as negotiation, project management, and intercultural communication.
Why it matters
The program is designed to fill a gap in higher education by prioritizing practical job skills in international business over traditional political theory. It aims to provide students with actionable career preparation through an interdisciplinary approach.
The new program will cost between $16,000 and $17,000, significantly lower than the $40,000 to $70,000 typically seen in comparable master's degree programs. Students will complete the required coursework in one year primarily through online platforms.
The players
Erskine College
Located in Upstate South Carolina, this private Christian college offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
The details
The curriculum incorporates a Christian perspective while offering training in strategic decision-making, law and policy, and data analysis. This interdisciplinary structure is intended to help students transition directly into roles within international business environments.
Timeline
Fall 2027: Erskine College will launch the M.A. in International Studies.
Culture Shift
This program aligns with the growing trend of higher education institutions offering career-focused, competency-based master's degrees to replace traditional academic tracks. By prioritizing practical business skills, Erskine College is positioning itself against more expensive, theory-heavy graduate programs.
Prospective students in South Carolina will have access to a more affordable graduate degree path that emphasizes job-ready skills. The online format allows professionals across the state to complete the program in one year without the need for campus relocation.
The takeaway
Students considering this program should evaluate how the one-year timeline aligns with their current professional goals and budget. The interdisciplinary focus is best suited for those looking to apply skills like data analysis and negotiation within international business roles.
Further reading
For more information on educational trends, visit the South Carolina Language Learning section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Greenville Business Magazine.
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