Program Objectives
Develop Global Literacy: To equip students with a deep understanding of international political systems, foreign policy, and the dynamics of global power.
Foster Critical Analytical Skills: To cultivate the ability to interpret international conflicts, evaluate diplomatic strategies, and assess global economic trends.
Advance Professional Ethics: To instill the values of global citizenship, ethical diplomacy, and social responsibility in international interactions.
Promote Intercultural Competence: To provide insights into diverse legal systems, human rights issues, and the cultural frameworks that influence world affairs.
Enhance Advocacy & Negotiation: To prepare students for professional practice in international organizations, government agencies, and global non-profits through rigorous intellectual training.
Curriculum Structure & Expected Courses
1. General Education & Foundation (42 Credits)
POL 101: Introduction to Political Science (3)
IR 105: Introduction to International Relations (3)
HIS 110: Modern World History (3)
SOC 120: Introduction to Sociology (3)
PHIL 201: Ethics & Political Philosophy (3)
(Plus 27 credits of additional electives in Social Sciences, History, and Humanities)
2. Core Major Requirements (60 Credits)
IR 201: Theories of International Relations (3)
IR 205: Foreign Policy Analysis (3)
IR 301: International Organizations & Global Governance (3)
IR 305: International Political Economy (3)
IR 310: Conflict Resolution & Peacebuilding (3)
IR 401: International Human Rights (3)
IR 410: Diplomatic History & Practice (3)
IR 420: Comparative Politics (3)
IR 450: Senior Capstone Research Project (3)
(Plus 33 credits of additional core IR modules)
3. Concentration Electives (18 Credits)
IR 320: Regional Studies (e.g., Africa, Asia, Europe, America) (3)
IR 325: Global Environmental Policy (3)
IR 425: International Security & Terrorism (3)
IR 430: Globalization & Development (3)
(Plus 6 credits of related thematic electives)
Areas of Specialization & Career Pathways
Diplomacy: Foreign service officer, diplomat, or international policy consultant.
International Organizations: Program officer at NGOs, United Nations agencies, or global think tanks.
Global Business: Consultant for multinational corporations, international trade advisor, or market analyst.
Public Policy: Government advisor, legislative analyst, or public administrator focused on global issues.
Research Areas
Global Conflict: Researching the origins of regional instabilities and the effectiveness of international intervention.
Political Economy: Analyzing the intersection of global trade, development aid, and sovereign wealth.
Diplomatic Strategy: Evaluating the evolution of negotiation techniques in a digital, multi-polar world.
International Justice: Investigating the enforcement of human rights and international law across borders.
Learning Outcomes
• Demonstrate mastery of core theories and frameworks in the field of international relations.
• Apply critical methodologies to analyze global events, foreign policy decisions, and economic developments.
• Exhibit professional conduct, intercultural competence, and strategic communication skills.
• Execute original, evidence-based research through a capstone project that addresses a contemporary global challenge.