The study of international relations requires not only an understanding of the domestic politics of the nations of the world and their histories, cultures, and economic systems, but also, more importantly, how nations interact as they pursue their economic and security interests. This understanding requires skills beyond those available in other social science disciplines.
Majors in international relations examine the history and theories of international relations, how foreign policy is formulated in different political systems, the role of international organizations, and the impact of economic development on international relations. In addition to an introductory course, the major includes specific courses on American foreign policy, comparative foreign policy, and theories of international relations. Courses dealing with European democracies, communist and post-communist political systems, and developing nations in such regions of the world as the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa also are offered.
Because an adequate knowledge of world politics demands an intimate understanding of foreign cultures, language studies represent an important component of the study of international relations, and expertise in a foreign language can, under most circumstances, be counted as credit toward the major.
Graduates in the major pursue varied careers in international business, international organizations, and government. Many pursue graduate study in such disciplines as international relations, business, and the law. Most importantly, graduates in international relations are well-informed citizens prepared to involve themselves in building a better future.