Prospective Students

Welcome to GVSU International Relations

Are you ready to:

  • Study how terrorist networks are created and how they attract new members?
  • Examine the impact of climate change and how nations are cooperating to slow global warming?
  • Learn why so many of Michigan’s manufacturing jobs have been lost to China, Mexico, and other countries?
  • Read books by famous world leaders and diplomats?
  • Specialize in a region and learn intensely about its language, history, and culture?
  • Travel abroad and learn about international cultures and organizations first hand?

If you answered yes to these questions, then you should consider majoring in International Relations at GVSU. Our program will provide you with the education and skills you need to be successful in a variety of international fields!

The GVSU IR program is Interdisciplinary; to fulfill the major students need to earn credits in:

  • Political Science
  • History
  • Geography
  • Economics and Business
  • Foreign Language

Read more about us, or consult the popular pages below. 

Spotlights

Ashley DeBoer VandeBunte Spotlight

Ashley DeBoer VandeBunte

Director, Meetings and Education, American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association

Kimberly McKenzie Spotlight

Kimberly McKenzie

Assistant to U.S. Supreme Court Justice

Madeline Vander Velde Spotlight

Madeline Vander Velde

2016 Graduate Working and Living in Brussels

Myesha Dills Spotlight

Myesha Dills

JET Program, English language teacher, Oita, Japan

Brendan Sawyer Spotlight

Brendan Sawyer

Studying at Wayne State Law School

View More Spotlights

Events

Virtual Information Session: Gilman Scholarship (competitive award for study abroad)

September 22, 2026 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

The Gilman deadline is approaching! Now is the time to craft, reflect and revise your essay drafts. This is a time for you to brainstorm content, outline and discuss. By...

Democracy 101: Voting Rights, Then and Now with the GVSU NAACP

September 23, 2026 6:00 PM

Explore the history and evolution of voting rights in the United States, from past struggles to today's challenges. Join the GVSU NAACP for an engaging discussion on the importance of protecting...

DEM 101: Elect Her with GVSU Student Senate and Running Start

October 8, 2026 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Learn what it takes to run for office and make an impact in your community. Join GVSU Student Senate and Running Start to explore women’s leadership in politics, campaign basics, and how you...

DEM 101: Election Issues Panel with GVSU Political Science Department

October 14, 2026 6:00 PM

Hear from GVSU political science faculty as they discuss key issues shaping today's elections. Gain nonpartisan insights, ask questions, and deepen your understanding of the topics influencing...

Make a Difference Day

October 17, 2026 8:00 AM

Make A Difference Day is an annual day of service where students are transported to local community non-profits to participate in service activities. Service activities range from cleaning up the properties...

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News

Robach attends the National Conference of the World Affairs Council as a Student Scholar

Robach attends the National Conference of the World Affairs Council as a Student Scholar

Olivia Robach (PLS and IR double major) earned a scholarship to join student scholars from around the US to attend the annual conference of the World Affairs Council in Washington, DC in November 2025.

Dec 3, 2025

Ozinga Starting Law School at Case Western

Ozinga Starting Law School at Case Western

IR alum Kyla Ozinga is starting law school at Case Western

Sep 16, 2025

IR and PLS Alumni Starting Law School

IR and PLS Alumni Starting Law School

PLS, IR and Human Rights alum Taylor Bessinger is attending the University of Illinois College of Law

Sep 12, 2025

Salam Attending Harvard Law

Salam Attending Harvard Law

IR alum Shireen Salam is attending Harvard Law School.

Sep 9, 2025

Diven Honored with Award

Diven Honored with Award

Professor Polly Diven received the 2025 Hillman-Orr Award from the World Affairs Council of West Michigan.

Jun 23, 2025

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Page last modified June 2, 2016