International Relations Major
International Relations is the study of relationships among nations, global politics, and diplomacy. It is a major within Social Sciences.
International Relations is the study of how countries, governments, and international organizations interact with each other and address shared challenges. The major examines global politics, diplomacy, trade, conflict, and cooperation among nations. Students explore questions like how countries negotiate treaties, why conflicts arise between regions, how international institutions work, and what shapes a nation's foreign policy. The field combines history, politics, economics, and cultural understanding to help students analyze current events and understand the complex relationships that define our interconnected world.
Students drawn to this major typically have broad curiosity about world events and different cultures, enjoy analyzing political systems and international issues, and want to understand how global decision-making happens. The major usually begins with foundational courses covering international history, political theory, and the basics of how the global system operates. As students progress, they take more specialized courses focused on particular regions, issues like international law or development, or specific analytical approaches. Many programs include research projects, case studies, and discussions of real-world situations that allow students to apply concepts and develop critical thinking skills.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a International Relations program commonly includes topics such as:
- International politics
- Foreign policy
- International security
- Global economics
- Diplomacy
- Foreign language
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
International Relations is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a International Relations background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Policy analyst
- Foreign service candidate
- NGO program associate
- Researcher
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a International Relations major?
International Relations is the study of relationships among nations, global politics, and diplomacy. It is part of social sciences, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do International Relations majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as international politics, foreign policy, international security, global economics, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a International Relations major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as policy analyst, foreign service candidate, ngo program associate. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is International Relations offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.