Do you keep up with current events? Are you interested in history and different cultures? Have you ever participated in Model United Nations? If so, international relations could be the perfect major for you. International relations students learn about politics and institutions around the globe, and study the principles of diplomacy and foreign policy.
Education
According to the College Board, international relations programs usually lead to a bachelor’s degree. If you are interested in this field, take a foreign language, human geography and AP Comparative Government & Politics in high school. In college, you can expect to take classes including African politics, diplomacy, global human rights issues, and U.S. foreign policy.
What to know before you apply
Before you choose a particular college, find out whether you will be studying international relations exclusively or whether it will be your specialty as part of another major, like political science or economics. This will make a huge difference. Also, research whether a foreign language is recommended or required in the major. If it is, you need to factor in your study abroad time when you plan your course schedule. Finally, think about whether you would like to pair this major with another field of study, like peace and justice studies or sociology. This could give you a more in-depth education and could influence your career prospects.
Colleges offering related majors
• Lawrence Technological University: Southfield, Mich.
• Le Moyne College: Syracuse, N.Y.
• Mercyhurst University: Erie, Pa.
• Trinity Washington University: Washington, D.C.
• Virginia Commonwealth University: Richmond, Va.
Salary
A degree in international relations could mean a career in Foreign Service, news correspondence, or government legislation. According to the Department of State, the base starting salary for Foreign Service officers was $43,213 in 2011. The U.S. Bureau of Labor reports that news correspondents earned an average of $43,640 in 2011, while legislators earned $38,860.
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