As someone considering a degree in international relations, you’ve probably been keeping up on the news of massive disruptions and resignations roiling the U.S. State Department over the past couple of years. Founded as the first executive department of the United States government and still one of the largest foreign services in the world, the once-proud agency has seen morale plummet and its mission crumble as it has been gutted by the Trump administration. Featured Programs:
Under former secretary of State Rex Tillerson, the administration planned to push out more than 2,000 employees, many of them irreplaceable. More than half the top-ranking positions in the department were eliminated or emptied. Fifty-five ambassadorships are vacant, including thirty-nine for which no replacement has even been nominated.
Under normal circumstances, new international relations graduates might look on that state of affairs as a golden opportunity. Rebuilding the ranks of State could result in easy hiring and rapid advancement potential for years to come.
But it’s increasingly looking like a state of more or less permanent chaos, and a service that might take some time to fully recover.
Take heart, though. There are some very good reasons to make an investment in a degree in international relations. Here are five for you to chew on!
International relations is a broad and interdisciplinary field focused on analyzing complex global issues. It covers areas like foreign policy international law diplomacy, national security, human rights, global markets and more. But is it a good college major to pursue? There are strong arguments on both sides. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the key pros and cons of majoring in international relations to help you decide.
The Case for International Relations
There are many good reasons why international relations makes for an excellent college major Here are some of the top arguments in favor
1. Great Preparation for a Variety of Careers
An international relations major provides an excellent foundation for a wide range of career paths. With their broad knowledge and skill sets graduates go on to work in areas like
- Government agencies like the State Department, Department of Homeland Security, CIA and FBI
- International organizations like the United Nations, World Bank and NATO
- Think tanks and policy research institutes
- Public advocacy groups and NGOs
- Journalism and media
- International business and consulting
- Law and academia
In today’s globalized world, the expertise gained as an international relations major is highly valued across sectors.
2. Develop In-Demand Skills
Beyond specific career preparation, the skills gained as an international relations major are versatile and transferable. Coursework builds competencies in areas like:
- Critical thinking and analytical ability
- International awareness and cultural sensitivity
- Communication and diplomacy
- Research and data analysis
- Policy assessment and development
These skills allow graduates to thrive in our interconnected world, no matter what field they ultimately work in.
3. Engaging Course Content
For students passionate about global affairs, an international relations curriculum covers thoroughly engaging topics like:
- International institutions and governance
- Foreign policy analysis
- Regional studies courses
- International political economy
- International law and human rights
- Conflict resolution and security issues
The material brings real-world global issues to the classroom for lively discussion and debate.
4. Gain a Global Perspective
By examining issues from diverse international perspectives, students gain empathy, open-mindedness and an understanding of different cultural contexts. This global outlook is invaluable in navigating our complex world.
5. Strong Interdisciplinary Approach
International relations utilizes concepts and insights from political science, economics, sociology, history, geography, anthropology and more. This interdisciplinary breadth allows students to analyze issues from multiple angles.
6. Solid Preparation for Graduate Programs
The analytical, research and communication abilities gained from an international relations degree provide a robust foundation for law school, MBA programs, international policy master’s degrees and more. It keeps doors open for further education.
The Case Against International Relations
While international relations has clear benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:
1.abstract and Conceptual Focus
With its emphasis on theories, concepts and frameworks, an international relations curriculum can feel detached from concrete policy realities at times. Students may desire more practical knowledge.
2. Limited Hard Skills
Unlike more technical fields like engineering or accounting, international relations majors do not build many clear-cut, applicable hard skills. This can make recruiting for entry-level positions more difficult.
3. Foreign Language Requirements
Many international relations programs require or highly encourage foreign language proficiency. For some students, intensive language study is not a strength or interest.
4. Statistics and Data Analysis Requirements
To analyze global trends, students must take courses in statistics, data analysis and sometimes geographic information systems (GIS). Students uncomfortable with math and numbers may find these courses challenging.
5. Heavy Reading and Writing Load
Reading dense texts, writing research papers and participating in seminar discussions make up a significant portion of coursework. Students must be ready for an intense reading and writing curriculum.
6. Difficulty Explaining the Degree
International relations is an interdisciplinary field. Explaining courses and concepts to those unfamiliar with IR can be tricky compared to more self-explanatory majors like business, engineering or biology.
7. Limited Job Prospects for Bachelor’s Degree
Unlike technical fields where recruits are hired directly out of undergraduate programs, many international relations bachelor’s degree holders may need to pursue master’s degrees to access substantive job opportunities in the field. Entry-level prospects are very competitive.
Bottom Line on International Relations Majors
Overall, international relations offers a stimulating and globally-focused curriculum that builds versatile skills for various career paths. However, students must be prepared for an academically rigorous program featuring intensive reading, writing, data analysis and language requirements. Job prospects directly out of undergrad may be limited.
For students passionate about global issues and willing to work hard, international relations can be a deeply rewarding major and valuable life experience. But it’s crucial to enter the major with clear expectations and combine your degree with internships, networking and possibly graduate studies to maximize career options after graduation.
Key Considerations
When weighing an international relations major, ask yourself:
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Are you deeply interested in global affairs, politics, cultures and languages?
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Are you ready for a heavy workload focused on reading, writing and critical analysis vs. applied skills?
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Are you comfortable with advanced math, statistics and data analysis?
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Are you willing to study abroad and/or pursue proficiency in a foreign language?
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How well does an international relations degree align with your specific career goals?
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Are you open to possibly needing a master’s degree to access substantive job opportunities?
Carefully reflecting on these types of questions will help determine if majoring in international relations is the right choice for you or not. Speak with your academic advisor to get deeper insights into curricula and career paths.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does an international relations major work?
International relations majors take core courses in areas like foreign policy, global conflict, international institutions, comparative politics, and economic development. Coursework mixes theory and history with analysis of current issues. Students also take classes in international law, communications, economics, history, sociology, and foreign languages.
What classes do international relations majors take?
Common courses include Introduction to International Relations, International Organizations, US Foreign Policy, International Political Economy, Diplomatic History, Comparative Politics, International Law, International Security, Regional Studies, Foreign Language, and Research Methods.
Is it easy to get a job with an international relations degree?
It can be competitive getting hired directly out of undergrad, but an international relations degree provides a strong foundation for many career paths in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Relevant experience through internships and networking are key. A master’s degree can increase job prospects.
What jobs can you get with an international relations degree?
Common roles include foreign service officer, policy analyst, diplomatic aide, nonprofit program manager, journalist, research assistant, global risk analyst, immigration specialist and more. An advanced degree expands options.
Is international relations a good major for law school?
Yes, international relations complements law school well. IR builds skills in critical reasoning, research, argument formation, and writing which prepare students for the rigors of law school. Knowledge of international issues and frameworks provides an excellent background as well.
Is it worth majoring in international relations?
For students intrigued by global affairs, an international relations major can provide tremendous value through engaging coursework, relevant skills gained, and abundant career opportunities. IR graduates are prepared to make an impact across sectors in our interconnected world.
What can you do with an international relations degree besides diplomacy?
International relations skills apply well to careers in business, advocacy, research, journalism, consulting, human rights, immigration, intelligence, higher education, and the nonprofit sphere. While some do become diplomats, there are many career options beyond diplomacy.
International Relations Is More Relevant Than Ever
Although there may be fewer positions available under the Trump administration, the jobs are more relevant than ever. Big things are happening on the world stage and they aren’t happening by themselves. The collapse of the Iran nuclear deal, the possibility of a near-future North Korea nuclear deal, the subsequent collapse of the North Korea nuclear deal… these are all activities with a lot of ground-level diplomatic coordination required.
The shockwaves only create more of that demand. Businesses reeling from the re-imposition of sanctions, as Boeing is with the evaporation of $20 million in Iranian contracts on which the ink was barely dry, are going to be scrambling to restructure their international operations and salvage what they can. And that’s going to require highly educated international studies graduates to put together again.
You Have Multiple Career Choices
The government, as massive as it is, is hardly the only employer looking for skilled international relations graduates. In fact, the decimation at the State Department is quite likely to increase hiring elsewhere… even if the federal government isn’t as involved in coordinating activities between U.S. businesses and citizens and foreign countries, the slack will surely be taken up by NGOs and stakeholders in the private sector.
This leaves the door wide open for whip-smart staff at corporations and NGOs. Businesses are going to need highly trained international relations professionals to help fill the gaps when it comes to coordinating their multinational operations.
