MAIA Degree Jobs: A Guide to Top Career Paths, Skills, and Salaries

With an M.A.I.A., the world is your workplace, as this degree opens the door to impactful jobs across the public and private sectors internationally.

Whether you want to shape foreign policy and diplomacy efforts, manage global humanitarian programs, or forecast international stock markets, this degree equips you with the skills needed for diverse careers. Let's dive into M.A.I.A. degree jobs and what you can earn.

What is an MAIA Degree?

The Master of Arts in International Administration (M.A.I.A.) is a graduate degree that prepares students for global leadership roles in government, NGOs, and the private sector.

It combines coursework in interdisciplinary international relations, global policy, economics, and human rights with practical training in diplomacy, communication, and cross-cultural collaboration.

What International Affairs Degree Jobs are Available?

As an M.A.I.A. graduate, you can pursue careers in:

• Global business
• Diplomacy
• Policy
• Humanitarian work
• Development
• And many other fields

These opportunities typically fall into three main sectors: public, private, and nonprofit/NGO. Government embassies, Fortune 500 companies, and international nonprofits hire M.A.I.A. grads, giving you many options.

Explore some of the most in-demand jobs in each sector below.

Public Sector Career Paths

M.A.I.A. grads work for local, state, and federal governments, filling domestic and international roles. The following jobs may prove interesting if you think the public sector could best serve your interests.

Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer

Diplomats (also known as Foreign Service Officers) represent their countries abroad.

No two days are the same in these fast-paced, nuanced jobs: one day, you negotiate a new trade deal between your home country and assigned country; the next, you host a cultural exchange program to encourage diplomacy.

Diplomats often move countries every few years, making this a great job if you can adapt quickly and enjoy new challenges.

Policy Analyst (International Relations)

As a policy analyst focused on international relations, you're at the forefront of analyzing and reporting global trends. Your research and writing skills must be top-notch, as you'll spend many hours reviewing complex information and making it accessible.

The result? Your work helps inform major policy decisions and creates real-world impact.

International Development Officer

As an international development officer, you're your organization's go-to for securing funding for high-impact projects. You know how to build relationships with a spectrum of donors and stakeholders, making projects come alive and persuading them to be part of them.

You also know how to throw a good fundraising event, write attention-getting grant proposals, and educate donors on how they can give.

Human Rights Advocate

Standing up for others is at the heart of a human rights advocate's work. A voice for the voiceless, you feel passionate about bringing attention to injustices and fighting for change.

In this role, you collect data, write reports, educate decision-makers and public entities, and rally public support for your cause.

Foreign Affairs Specialist

Your finger is always on the global pulse as a foreign affairs specialist. You monitor international developments and trends, using that knowledge to enact meaningful change.

When not researching and writing memos used by decision-makers, your days focus on working across agencies to ensure cohesive responses and representing your department in domestic and international settings.

UN/NGO Program Manager

Program managers focus their work on specific efforts within their organizations, such as overseeing a clean water initiative or an orphanage.

You may be working on a specific goal, but your responsibilities are myriad. These include planning and managing budgets, hiring facilitators, collaborating with community stakeholders and donors, and ensuring effectiveness through regular evaluations.

Using your M.A.I.A. degree in the public sector offers opportunities to effect impactful change and enjoy an exciting career.

Private Sector Career Paths

Private sector jobs are popular options for M.A.I.A. grads because they offer many careers and often higher salaries.

International Business Consultant

As an international business consultant, you take the lead when companies want to expand their reach overseas.

This means you have a firm grasp on how global markets and local regulations work, know how to manage teams across cultures, and can make informed recommendations based on your specialized knowledge.

Global Risk Analyst

Global risk analysts work at the forefront of identifying and managing company risks for organizations.

This requires a keen understanding of international shifts in politics, economics, supply chains, and more. You use this knowledge to help senior leaders make key decisions to evolve the business.

International Lawyer

Combining your M.A.I.A. degree with a law degree opens even more doors. Your value as an international lawyer can't be overestimated, as companies, governments, and NGOs rely on your skills in navigating complicated global law.

Some of the tasks you'll take on include structuring multinational deals, preparing for an international tribunal case, and interpreting global regulations.

Media and Communications Director (International Focus)

As the voice of your organization, you shape how the world sees the work being done. One day, you may lead crisis communications for a global disaster; the next, you might craft a memo on narrative consistency.

Cross-cultural fluency, impeccable oral and written communications, and the ability to translate complex research into accessible ideas prove invaluable in these roles.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager

CSR managers act as the conscience of companies, steering the business toward goals that deliver positive social impact.

Whether leading a sustainability initiative or reviewing supply chains to ensure ethical working environments, you make a meaningful difference in the company's future.

Financial Analyst (Global Markets)

Financial analysts wake up at 3:00 a.m. to see what the Japanese markets are up to, and that's just a standard Tuesday.

As the global market gurus of your company, you track international currencies, stocks, and commodities, creating forecasts and consulting on sound investments.

An M.A.I.A. positions you for influential private sector jobs offering higher-than-average earning potential. Whether you want to litigate global cases, consult on international stocks, or act as the voice of your multinational company, your training opens doors to roles that shape the world and pay well.

Essential Skills for International Administration Degree Jobs

M.A.I.A. programs equip you with the specialized knowledge employers need, like analyzing data, engaging policymakers, and managing budgets. Just as critical are your soft skills and global perspective, including the ability to effectively communicate with cultural awareness, whether you're working in Albania, Zimbabwe, or anywhere in between.

Skills to develop include:

• Cross-Cultural Communication: A word or phrase considered standard in one country may be offensive in another, making cultural sensitivities critical in communications.
• Global Political Analysis: Imagine being able to predict political unrest before an election, and the value this skill can bring to your organization. Understanding global dynamics is key to international affairs degree jobs.
• Negotiation and Diplomacy: Tensions can run high when mediating an international treaty, necessitating a balanced approach to negotiations and a strategic approach to diplomacy.
• Multilingual Abilities: Besides ensuring key points don't get lost in translation, communicating with local partners helps break barriers and instill a sense of camaraderie.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Skills: Combining these two research skills produces a powerful end product: a data-packed report that tells a story. When fundraising, demonstrating need via numbers while also connecting that need to a specific person or community is incredibly persuasive.
• Project Management and International Networking: Effective projects rely on people coming together. Building relationships with local leaders, policymakers, and influential voices is an important way to manage a program effectively and ensure its success.

As an M.A.I.A. grad, you're expected to have a diverse and expansive array of skills. A greater command of these skills translates into a higher earning potential.

What is the Salary Range for MAIA Degree Jobs?

International administration degree job salaries range from $50,000 to more than $200,000 annually, and potential earnings are affected by factors like experience, geography, and employer.

Salary Range for Public Sector Jobs

If you decide to work in the public sector, expect to earn between $50,000 to more than $120,000 annually. Keep in mind that salaries and jobs for M.A.I.A. graduates fluctuate based on whether you're just entering the field or an industry veteran. They will also vary based on location: a position at the Parisian embassy typically pays more than one at a Kenyan NGO.

• Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: $58,000–$160,000+
• Policy Analyst: $54,000–$134,000+
• International Development Officer: $33,000–$133,000+

Salary Range for Private Sector Jobs

Private sector M.A.I.A. degree jobs start at $60,000 and can exceed $200,000, depending on your experience, location, and career path. As a recent graduate, you’ll likely begin on the lower end of this range with the potential to grow quickly, especially if you work in a major metropolitan area or global business hub.

• International Business Consultant: $65,000–$140,000+
• Global Risk Analyst: $80,000–$130,000+
• International Lawyer: $80,000–$200,000+
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager: $60,000–$120,000+

How UOnline Prepares You for MAIA Careers

The University of Miami leads in M.A.I.A. education, and our online M.A.I.A. program provides a flexible, career-focused curriculum suited to working professionals.

During our 20-month program, you build the knowledge and skills needed for impactful roles while also networking with renowned professors and future industry leaders.

Learn from Professors with Global Expertise

Our world-class faculty brings real-world involvement in diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and international policy, allowing them to teach from experience. Professors maintain substantial networks that help you when the job search begins.

Gain Practical, Real-World Skills

Rather than focusing solely on theory, our M.A.I.A. program emphasizes a hands-on approach that allows you to get a real sense of global policy challenges even before graduating. We do this through simulations, case studies, and applied research woven throughout coursework.

Graduate with a Competitive Edge

Combining top-ranked faculty and a cutting-edge, applicable curriculum helps you stand out from other graduates and provides a competitive edge in the job market.

Brad McGuinn, faculty director of the Master of Arts in International Administration program, emphasizes the program's career-focused design:

"We are very intentional about the professional application of this degree program. This means helping students align their career trajectory with their passion in life, whether it's humanitarian issues, questions of national security, running an NGO, or a related field of interest."

What Should You Do After Earning an MAIA?

If you want to hit the ground running after graduation and stand out to top global employers, follow these steps:

1. Define Your Global Leadership Goals

You need a defined vision for what you want in your career, including where you want to work, who you want to work for, and how you want to make an impact.

Clearly stating your leadership goals will also help you in the job search, as organizations want employees aligned with their goals and values.

2. Leverage Professional Associations and Networks

Building a professional network while still in school benefits you for years to come.

Joining relevant professional associations, attending conferences, and connecting with other professionals across sites like LinkedIn fosters valuable connections and expands your job opportunities.

3. Consider Certifications that Complement Your MAIA

Completing relevant certifications expands your expertise, setting you apart from the competition in government, NGOs, and international business sectors.

Many higher education institutions and professional associations offer certifications specific to international affairs, including in areas such as global security, international law, and development.

4. Tailor Your Resume for Different Sectors

Failing to craft sector-specific resumes could prevent you from accepting a job offer, as different industries require different skill sets.

Rather than sending a generic resume, no matter the job, create three options tailored for the public, private, and nonprofit/NGO sectors. Within these, emphasize relevant skills and experiences aligned with their needs.

5. Work with a UOnline Career Advisor or Mentor

Our career advisors and mentors support M.A.I.A. students and graduates alike, providing guidance at each step and easing your transition into the workforce.

By reaching out, you receive help crafting and refining your resume, prepping for interviews, and negotiating job offers.

Take the Next Step Toward Your MAIA Career

At the University of Miami, we're here to help you earn a respected, career-driven Master of Arts in International Administration online and make your mark on the world.

Our flexible, student-centric, globally focused program is designed for working professionals like you who are ready to lead diplomacy efforts, influence international policy, and drive change across borders. Whether you're looking to transition into a global role or elevate your impact in your current field, we'll support you every step of the way.

Now is the time to turn your passion for global affairs into a purposeful career. Contact us today to connect with an advisor and discover how UOnline can help you achieve your international career goals.

FAQ About MAIA Degree Jobs

Considering an M.A.I.A. degree? Here are answers to the most common questions about career paths, program length, and how this degree can help you make a global impact.