05/13/2025
A Guide to Studying Global Affairs, Foreign Policy, and International Organizations
If you are interested in diplomacy, global security, foreign policy, or international trade, studying international relations may provide an engaging way to explore these fields. This interdisciplinary major examines how countries interact, how global policies take shape, and how organizations navigate cross-border challenges.
From understanding conflict and cooperation to exploring international law and economics, the international relations major helps students make sense of a rapidly changing world.
This guide explains how to get a degree in international relations, what courses and skills are typically required, and how students may align their education with future goals in international affairs, global politics, or public service.
Degree Options for Studying International Relations
To pursue a career or further study in international relations, most students begin with a bachelor’s degree in international relations or a related program such as political science or global studies. A typical bachelor's degree in international relations program includes about 120 credit hours, which most full-time students complete in four years.
International relations majors may also consider combining their education with electives in foreign languages, economics, international law, or cultural studies to broaden their understanding of international systems.
International Affairs and the Liberal Arts Foundation
International relations is rooted in the liberal arts, drawing on disciplines like history, philosophy, economics, and political science. Students learn how governments operate, how international organizations function, and how global issues like security, development, and human rights are addressed.
An international relations degree is not just about politics—it's about gaining a comprehensive understanding of the world, from cross-cultural communication to global economic trends.
International Politics and Global Security
Courses in international politics help students understand the complex relationships between states and non-state actors. Topics may include:
- International relations theory
- International security and conflict
- Political economy and global trade
- Diplomacy and foreign relations
- Peacebuilding and conflict resolution
Through these classes, international relations majors develop strong critical thinking skills and the ability to evaluate global issues from multiple perspectives.
International Organizations and Foreign Policy Analysis
A major focus of the international relations degree is understanding how international organizations like the United Nations, NATO, and the World Trade Organization operate. These institutions play huge roles in promoting global cooperation and developing international policy.
Students also examine how countries form and implement foreign policy, learning how leaders make decisions that impact national security, economic stability, and diplomatic relations.
Comparative Politics and Global Issues Courses
Many programs require or offer courses in comparative politics, which help students explore different political systems around the world. This comparative study gives students insight into how democracy, authoritarianism, and other forms of governance influence global affairs.
Other international relations courses may focus on topics such as:
- Human rights and global justice
- Global economics and development
- Environmental issues in a global context
- World religions and cultural studies
This broad scope makes sure that international studies majors develop an adaptable and interdisciplinary worldview.
Structure of an International Relations Degree Program
Most international relations programs follow a structured format:
- General education courses (writing, science, math, social sciences)
- Core courses in international relations theory, foreign policy, and global politics
- Elective courses in subjects like international law, global security, and cultural diplomacy
- A capstone project, senior seminar, or independent research experience
- Optional study abroad, internships, or language immersion
Students are encouraged to work with academic advisors to customize their international relations degree to match specific interests, such as international development or regional studies.
Developing Foreign Language and Cross-Cultural Skills
Strong communication skills are essential in international relations, and many students choose to study a foreign language as part of their program. Some programs may require two semesters or more of language study.
Cultural fluency is also a key component of global engagement. Learning about world religions, regional histories, and international customs prepares students to work in diverse environments and communicate across cultures effectively.
Is a Degree in International Relations Worth It?
A degree in international relations may support students who are passionate about understanding international systems, solving global challenges, or contributing to foreign policy development. While career outcomes depend on many factors—including experience, location, and additional education—this major offers students the chance to develop strong research, writing, and analytical skills relevant across sectors.
Some graduates continue into master's programs in international affairs, public policy, or global security, while others explore careers in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or international business settings.
How Long Does It Take To Get an International Relations Degree?
Many students complete a bachelor’s degree in approximately four years of full-time study, though timelines can vary based on individual schedules and course loads. That typically includes eight semesters and about 120 credits, depending on the program. Some students may accelerate their studies or take graduate-level courses during their senior year, depending on the structure of the program.
What Degree Do You Need To Work in International Relations?
Entry-level roles in international relations often require a bachelor’s degree in international relations, political science, or global studies. Some roles may call for advanced education, such as a master’s degree in international development, foreign policy, or global security.
Students planning to work in diplomacy, foreign service, or global analysis may also benefit from additional language training or regional specialization.
Career Paths With an International Relations Degree
International relations graduates may find opportunities in:
- Government agencies (e.g., Department of State, Department of Defense)
- Nonprofit organizations and NGOs
- International business and trade
- Think tanks and research institutions
- Policy analysis and global consulting
- Foreign service and cultural exchange programs
Job titles may include policy analyst, foreign service officer, intelligence analyst, or roles related to international development and global security.
While roles and requirements vary, the skills gained, including critical thinking, communication, research, and cultural awareness, may serve students across a wide range of global career paths.
Next Steps for a Future in International Affairs
A degree in international relations may offer a window into global systems, while helping students strengthen their critical thinking and cultural awareness, skills that may be valuable in navigating a fast-changing world. Through the study of international policy, diplomacy, and political dynamics, students may explore ways to build a deeper understanding of global challenges and explore how to respond with informed, thoughtful approaches.
Whether your interests include foreign service, global security, nonprofit advocacy, or international trade, studying international relations may help you develop the perspective needed to engage with complex issues across today’s interconnected world. With coursework spanning political science, history, economics, and foreign languages, international relations majors often create a flexible academic foundation that supports many paths forward.
For students interested in exploring the world, contributing to international dialogue, and fostering cross-cultural understanding, this degree may offer an academic foundation for students interested in global engagement.
