International Relations Bachelor of Arts

The information on this page pertains to requirements for students who matriculated in the current academic year. Students who matriculated in a prior year should view historical catalog information here.

Program Overview

The International Relations major prepares students for responsible global citizenship and entry into internationally related jobs in government, business, or international public or private agencies. The curriculum is designed to provide greater breadth than is possible by majoring in a single discipline, yet permit sufficiently focused study in international affairs to prepare the student for direct entry into the field of international work or continued post-graduate study.

The curriculum features a core set of political science courses dealing with international security, international law and international political economy. Regional and thematic concentrations allow students to explore international affairs through multiple disciplinary perspectives, including history, sociology, economics and political science. Learning a foreign language is strongly encouraged, as is study abroad. We offer students opportunities to integrate experiential learning with their academic coursework. Examples include Model European Union, mock trial, and internships with federal and state governments, political campaigns, and non-profit organizations in Central Iowa or overseas. Students should work closely with their advisors to select courses that are most compatible with their academic and professional goals.