Reflecting a shared commitment to prepare students for leadership roles in the fields of public affairs, international relations and public administration, the Maxwell School has partnered with Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS) in Geneva, New York, to create a streamlined pathway for graduate studies.

The accelerated degree program will enable qualified HWS undergrads to begin Maxwell graduate-level coursework and complete nearly one-third of a master’s degree as they are earning their bachelor’s degree.

“This new partnership is great news for both the institutions and the students we serve,” said Maxwell School Dean David M. Van Slyke. “We know that Hobart and William Smith students come highly prepared and bring a genuine interest in making a positive difference for the public good, which is a core of our mission. This pathway not only gives them a head start on their graduate study, but they also become part of Maxwell’s global community of students, scholars and alumni.”

Under the agreement, accepted students can enroll in up to two Maxwell graduate courses during their senior year at HWS and may also transfer up to two additional 600-level international relations courses completed at HWS.

“We hear our students express concerns about their next steps, and also about the costs of graduate education. This addresses both issues — and at the top-ranked school of public affairs in the country,” Chair of HWS’ International Relations Department Stacey Philbrick Yadav said. “We cannot put into words how excited we are about this partnership.”

The partnership also reflects longstanding ties between the two institutions. During a visit to Maxwell’s campus last year, Philbrick Yadav and HWS Professor of International Relations Kevin Dunn spotted a banner honoring Thomas Bozzuto ’71 M.P.A, a Maxwell and Hobart alumnus and staunch supporter of both schools.

Graduate degrees broaden the range of employment options for students, Dunn said. “For students interested in developing their management skills, the M.P.A. is a great program. Those more interested in developing their research and analytic skills might prefer the master of arts degree in international relations. Both programs will give students the skills needed to pursue careers across all sectors—government, nonprofits, NGOs and private sector—in today’s globalized world."

Mary Stone, senior writer, Hobart and William Smith