Webster University or Norwich University Master's in International Relations

I have been accepted into both schools for their Graduate program in International Relations [Webster] and Diplomacy and Peacekeeping [Norwich]. Seems like Webster is a bit more broad and Norwich is fine tuned. Both have a thesis option and money isn't an issue, since they will be paid for by TA/MGIB.

I like Webster due to their more broad approach, research techniques courses etc. Norwich appeals to me because the reviews I've read.

Not sure which school is 'better'.

Any opinions on what I should be looking for would be appreciated.

Background information: I have been in the United States Air Force for seven years, two years as a NCO. I've been overseas for four years, deployed serveral times. My background if Security Forces and I plan on getting out in 2014, hopefully with my Master's. I am looking to do something related to International Relations (NGO, even volunteering for a few years, UN) or some three letter agency.

 

Both are respected schools. The Norwich name might have more sway in military/government circles, since Norwich is one of the few senior military colleges in the country. It is the oldest SMC (founded 1819) and the only one that is private, rather than a state school.

 

I suppose it is a case of which ever program appeals to you most, then that is the one to go with. Webster as an institution is a top tier Midwestern School (US NW Report) and has a lot of military grads (general officers and so on) as well as corp execs.

Best wishes with your studies.

 

I may be a bit biased since I teach for Norwich, but I would definitely choose Norwich if your goal is to stay in the military. Norwich is a B&M with a growing online portfolio - there is a good mixture in the graduate school of military and non-military students. Webster seems to be more focused on catering to the military exclusively and they have a satellite campus at nearly every military base I have ever been on. The history and tradition of Norwich alone would be enough to sway me if I were in the same position.

 

Norwich over Webster!

 

I agree with the choice of Norwich because of the historical aspect (cool). Webster is a top ranked school with a lot of high powered graduates BUT you just can't beat the pedigree (history of Norwich). If I were you, I would go to the campus for graduation so you can feel a part of that history.

 

I may be biased on my opinion, but as a Norwich Alumni, I have to say Norwich. It is a very old school, very respected in Military circles, and the history, traditions, and pedigree alone are worth it.

You will also be a part of a very large and active network. Norwich forever!

 

Go with Webster. :stooges:

 

Below are the credit hours and course for each school. Webster has 3 CR hr courses for a total of 12 classes; 9 week semesters. Norwich has six, six credit hour classes; 11 week semesters.

It seems like I will get a better range of knowledge from the Webster course, especially since I have a mediocre range of knowledge for the particular area of study. Another plus is the research methods course under Webster.

Thoughts?

Webster: 3 CR HRS (9 week courses)

INTL 5000 Introduction to International Relations
INTL 5100 Research Methods and Perspectives

INTL 5580 Politics of Development
INTL 5675 Russia and Eastern European Area Studies

INTL 5400 International Political Economy
INTL 5540 International Organizations
INTL 5510 Theories of International Relations
INTL 5700 Humanitarian Issues in International Politics
INTL 5800 Globalization

INTL 5900 Advanced Research Methods*
INGO 5700 Grant Writing, Fundraising and Development for International Nongovernmental Organizations

Norwich: 6 CR HRS (11 week courses)

Theory and the International System
Law and the International System

Conflict Avoidance, Prevention, and Containment
Conflict Resolution and Post-Conflict Reconstruction
Military Intervention and Conflict Management

 

I'm a student in the business school at Webster, although not in this program. I did want to say that I'm sure there is military recognition, as 75% of my classmates are usually military/civil servants. Overall, the administration is responsive and helpful.

In terms of international relations, I would like to think they have a leg up as they heavily highlight their study abroad and international campus options. One of the neat things that I will be doing this year is participating in a hybrid study abroad course that involves the majority of study done online, with a week abroad in China attending business meetings and cultural exhibits (the course is titled Commerce in China). I also know they have a "Global MBA" degree in which its students spend a semester in a variety of Webster's international campuses. How well this all translates to international relations in the business/military world? I'm honestly not certain, but I think it provides a good context.

 

Well as it turns out I've decided to go with Norwich. Thanks to all for the help.