International Relations, B.A.
International relations students examine interactions among states and peoples in an interdependent world. They study how governments, nongovernment organizations, and corporations resolve conflicts and foster cooperation. Graduates are well-informed citizens who are able to make meaningful contributions in a globalized environment.
Program Overview
Students can choose a Bachelor of Arts degree or a minor in international relations. In addition to the international relations curriculum, there are emphases available in the following:
- Political science
- History and culture
- Business and economics
- Geography
- Area studies such as Latin American studies, Middle East studies, African studies, and East Asian studies
Why Study International Relations at Grand Valley?
- The program equips students with the tools they need to understand global and international trends.
- Students learn to understand issues of global importance, including development, the environment, security, human rights, migration, and the interconnections between governance, economics, power, and identity.
- The curriculum includes a strong interdisciplinary core, enhanced by a flexible set of electives that allow students to configure their studies to meet their own interests.
- Study abroad programs provide unique experiences that significantly enrich an education.
- Internship program allows students to earn credits while gaining valuable real-world work experience.
Career Insights
Location & Format
Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.
- Face To Face
Coursework
The curriculum is designed to give students a broad base of knowledge. Some of the subjects included are:
- Modern history
- U.S. foreign policy
- World geography
- International law
- Comparative economic systems
Career Options
Students may work in fields such as:
- Government service
- Nonprofit organizations
- Journalism
- Public policy
- Law
- Teaching
- Marketing, trade, and finance
Combined Degree Programs
This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.
You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.Admission Requirements
Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.
Helpful Links
For More Information
Department of Political Science
gvsu.edu/polisci/ir
1121
AuSable Hall
(616) 331-2320
Dr. Polly Diven, International Relations Program Director
[email protected]
“The faculty has been great. They are so welcoming. I notice that the professors are very helpful and open to students.”
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS STUDENT
“My program has given me the foundation I need to build my life. The self journey I have taken at Grand Valley is very important to me.”
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS STUDENT