International Relations Program — The Program
Director
Professor , Department of Political Science and International Relations
The Program
The program in International Relations is intended for students interested in pursuing a special focus in international studies while also planning to complete one of the established majors at the University. The “concentration” is formally identified as Program of Study in International Relations and is so recorded on official university transcripts in addition to the student’s major. The curriculum includes completion of seven courses and a foreign language/international experience requirement (this is in addition to other courses needed for the student’s major).
The program provides a valuable foundation to prepare students for careers with an international dimension, further training in the business world, nongovernmental organizations, careers in the foreign service, and graduate study. Although based in the Department of Political Science and International Relations, this concentration can be combined with any major (examples of recent graduates include majors in political science, languages, history, economics, anthropology, biology, management/international business, and geography).
Curriculum
The concentration builds on a core of courses that give students the conceptual tools to understand the complex and changing web of interactions that characterize international relations and the growing globalization of the contemporary world. In addition, the program encourages specialization in one of the fields of concentration (Area and Sociocultural Study, International Conflict and Cooperation, International Political Economy) and the study of a foreign language and/or international experience. Students in the program are also expected to acquire basic competence in world history and world geography.
Admission
Any student, regardless of major, may enroll in this program after an initial discussion with one of the faculty advisers and/or the program director. An individualized study plan is prepared for each student—based on the student’s interests and future goals. Subsequent meetings will encourage students to monitor their progress and, if needed, adjust their study plans as indicated by changing interests.
Related Programs
Students are encouraged to complete a focused program of study in the culture and language that relates to their specific interest within international relations. Related programs are available in the following departments: Modern Language, Hispanic Studies, East Asian Studies, African Studies.
Minor in Management
Students with a potential interest in a career in international business may find it helpful to complete a minor in Management in addition to their major (in any area of interest) and the concentration in International Relations.