<p>I've been researching IR graduate schools for a few weeks in preparation for applying. Although I've been able to dig up some information on generalized IR and International Economics programs, I've found rather sparse amounts regarding the quality of different Security Studies and East Asian Studies programs. </p>
<p>As such, I was wondering if anyone had any firsthand knowledge about those types of graduate work. </p>
<p>From what I've heard St. Andrews is a good program. Calgary's program comes up a lot in searches but that really doesn't attest to its quality. In fact, there seem to be a large number of Canadian programs relating to security studies. Georgetown and George Washington have similar programs but I don't look forward to going into that degree of debt without knowing how strong of a program they have.</p>
<p>Of course, there is one other question I have to ask. Is Security Studies a good field to head into? Given the lack of information on different programs I've begun to wonder how useful such a focus would be for a degree.</p>
<p>Apparently it's got a good Masters course in Security Studies, and obviously it's in South East Asia with a Chinese speaking population so it's probably good for Asian Studies too. </p>
<p>That said, all of that info comes from a guy I know who is Singaporean and went there, so take it with a pinch of salt!</p>
<p>I was considering schools in Asia for precisely the reason of improving my language ability. I would definitely learn more living in a country than merely being taught in a classroom.</p>
<p>NUS looks like it could be a good choice. Thanks for the tip.</p>
<p>I second Ari's mention of IR/PS for anything relating to East Asia. As for security studies, SAIS's Strategic Studies Program (pretty much the same as security studies) is very well regarded, as are their Asian concentrations. Also, Georgetown has an MA in security studies through SFS that is separate from the MSFS program. I think Columbia SIPA also has strong East Asian programs.</p>