International relations (IR) is the study of how countries connect in global networks and collaborate to address complex issues like war, peace, trade and environment. As a field of inquiry, it draws on disciplines including political science, geography, history, sociology, law and economics to help you understand how nations engage in global politics.
In addition to building knowledge of international policy and diplomatic practices, you’ll learn how to apply your analytical skills to real-world situations, gaining a unique perspective on how international systems work. You’ll also gain experience working with people from different cultures, a skill that can be valuable in any career.
As the world becomes more interconnected, it’s important that we have a deeper understanding of how societies connect — and how those connections affect everyone on this planet. Whether you want to work in diplomacy, business, or global affairs, your knowledge of international relations can give you a leg-up when it comes to making a difference for good.
International relations is a broad and dynamic field, reflecting contemporary concerns that reshape our global landscape. IR is a critical part of the academic landscape and has become a central component in education, with the traditional belief that foreign and military affairs should remain the exclusive preserve of rulers and other elites giving way to the view that all citizens should be well-informed on such matters so that they can participate as full participants in global life.
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