Those who study for an international relations degree learn about global politics and the social-historical impact of global development. Globalization, the process of worldwide development and integration, continues to increase. In turn, international relations may apply in business, politics and humanitarian sectors.
What can you do with an international relations degree? There are a variety of roles in diverse industries where you can apply an international relations degree with businesses or organizations that have a presence in another country.
The online master’s programs from American University’s School of International Service allow professionals to build international and business expertise in 12–24 months. GRE/GMAT scores not required.
SPONSORED
An international relations degree can be put to use in government, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), the private sector, politics, business, law, education, media, international affairs, research, foreign trade and agriculture.
Those studying for an international relations degree learn subjects spanning world affairs, politics, economics, culture, geography, history and language. Sample courses might include:
Students may supplement core classes with courses in non-Western history, policy, economics or language. Many programs require study of a foreign language and/or a focus on a global region.
When determining if an international relations degree is worthwhile, consider how you plan to apply your degree. If you plan to work for a business or organization in a global capacity, then an international relations degree may equip you with background and knowledge employers value. This type of degree may also help you succeed in a government or political role.
Some schools have degrees including international relations, international affairs and international studies. You may be wondering about the differences.
Because the labels “international relations,” “international affairs” and “international studies” may apply to similar programs, it’s important to research each program’s curriculum to find one that relates to your career goals.
Some programs may require students to take a certain number of credit hours within a single department to focus their degree. This is usually called a concentration. Possible concentrations for an international relations master’s degree include:
To choose a concentration, consider what you want to do with an international relations degree. There are job opportunities in government, nonprofits, international businesses, foreign policy, law, media and more.
Some students choose to pursue a dual degree, so they can specialize in a field and apply that expertise to an international role. Two possible dual degrees are law and international relations, and an MBA and international relations.
In this degree program, students learn about global cultures, economies and politics and how they relate to international law. Students might pursue jobs as human rights defenders or pursue careers as international lawyers.
An international relations and Master of Business Administration dual degree prepares students for global business careers. According to a 2020 World Economic Outlook report, global growth is projected at 4.9%. With American businesses expanding globally and businesses from outside the U.S. having an American presence, this type of dual degree can lead to a variety of international business roles.
There are many things you can do with a degree in international relations.
Some degree holders work in hospitality and tourism, while others pursue work in immigration. Many international relations degree holders work in politics or for the government. Some work in trade, economics and international business. Others use their degree in journalism careers.
Here’s a sampling of potential careers for those with a degree in international relations:
Diplomats represent the U.S. overseas and are employed by embassies, consulates and other diplomatic organizations. They work with their home country’s citizens who are in other countries and work with other international representatives to improve foreign relations.
Intelligence analysts may work in military careers or as civilians for organizations like the Department of Defense, Central Intelligence Agency or National Security Agency. Intelligence analysts use data from sources like law enforcement to prevent crime.
International business positions include roles like financial analyst, human resources specialist, marketing manager, management analyst, training and development specialist, sales manager and top executive, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Business professionals with an international relations degree might pursue a role for a U.S.-based company in another country or work in a U.S.-based position that has an international focus.
Immigration specialists work for immigration programs and assist with immigration procedures.
Politicians hold public office in government and propose, vote on and create laws and policies. Policy advisers help create political policies. Political analysts research political subjects and collect and analyze data to evaluate the development of political systems.
Journalists and news reporters cover breaking news and events. They interview subjects and present narratives in a variety of media, including newspapers, websites, podcasts, television and radio. Reporters with an international relations degree might specialize in covering news for a particular region or country.
Global communications specialists craft messaging that effectively translates and resonates with international audiences.
Nonprofit managers lead nonprofit organizations. Those with an international relations degree might pursue a role with a nonprofit that has a global presence or work as a nonprofit manager leading the international side of the organization.
Interpreters and translators convert information from one language into another language through written, spoken and sign language.
In addition to learning about U.S. and world history, you can expect to obtain some of the following skills with an IR degree:
Effective communication may play an important role in successful international relations. You’ll learn how to translate ideas and arguments into clear oral and written communication.
Learning about other cultures may expand your mindset and allow you to be more innovative in any role. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, you may apply that global mindset to drive businesses and organizations forward. You may also be able to apply cultural awareness and sensitivity to interactions with others around the world, making communication more effective.
Depending on the curriculum, economics may often be a prominent part of an international relations degree program. This is because many facets of international relations are spurred by business and global trade. You’ll learn economic principles and how to grow global businesses and organizations.
World events and various political structures influence international relations. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how governments around the world are formed and how they operate and work with other countries.
There’s often a foreign language requirement for an international relations degree. This skill may prepare you to work and communicate with people in other countries, either abroad or while living in the U.S.
If you want your career to have an international focus, then you may benefit from an international relations degree. You’ll learn about history, politics, economics and social studies so you can be more effective in an international role. You might be interested in a international relations degree program with a concentration that aligns with your career goals, or you might pursue a dual degree to expand your educational background. With a wide array of possibilities, an international relations degree can be a versatile stepping-stone in your career.
The online master’s programs from American University’s School of International Service allow professionals to build international and business expertise in 12–24 months. GRE/GMAT scores not required.
SPONSORED
Last Updated August 2020