The Penn State Master’s of Professional Studies degree in Labor and Global Workers’ Rights program focuses on global workers’ rights, work and gender in the global economy, employment relations system around the world, and strategic corporate research and organizing campaigns.
During the summer months, students participate in an internship with a United States trade union or worker-oriented organization and write a capstone project.

The deadline for applications for the next academic year is in January. Assistantships are available and awarded based on need and the quality of the application. Applicants are strongly encouraged to acquire some complementary support from their trade union, labor federation, or related organization.
Important Dates
Deadline | Date |
---|---|
MPS Application Deadline | Applicants will be admitted on a rolling basis. Final deadline: January 31, 2024* |
Acceptance Decision | February 2024 – May 2024 |
Students Arrive on Campus | Mid-August 2024 |
Fall Semester Classes Begin | August 26, 2024 |
Fall Semester Ends | December 13, 2024 |
Spring Semester Begins | January 13, 2025 |
Spring Semester Ends | May 2, 2025 |
Summer Internship and Capstone Project | May 12, 2025 – August 13, 2025 |
Graduation | August 16, 2025 |
* To be considered for admission, along with your application, international students must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores or proof of your upcoming test date.
For the admission process, see: Admission.
For the program curriculum, see: Curriculum.
For more information about the goals and curriculum of the program, write to Erin Hetzel.