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

Richard Damstra Spotlight

Richard Damstra

Senior Advisor at theĀ  NATO Office of Strategic Communications in Brussels.

Autumn Modena Spotlight

Autumn Modena

2015 Graduate Founder of RefuTea

Dorothy Sewe Spotlight

Dorothy Sewe

International Refugee Work in Grand Rapids

Aing-On Thammarattananon Spotlight

Aing-On Thammarattananon

Assistant to Political Affairs, Royal Thai Embassy in D.C.

Christopher Hoff Spotlight

Christopher Hoff

Assistant General Counsel, Microsoft

View More Spotlights

Events

Fellowships Information Session: Planning to apply for the Gilman? Exploring Fulbright? Interested in the NSF Goldwater for students planning on graduate research in STEM? Curious about fellowship opportunities generally?

September 8, 2026 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Welcome! Join us to explore the world of nationally competitive fellowships.Planning to apply for the Gilman to help defray the cost of GVSU undergraduate study abroad? Exploring Fulbright or another...

Democracy 101: First Time Voter Workshop

September 9, 2026 6:00 PM

New to voting? Learn everything you need to know about registering, understanding the voting process, and casting your ballot with confidence. This beginner-friendly workshop is perfect for first-time...

Non-Profit Volunteer & Internship Fair

September 10, 2026 1:00 PM

Looking to Make a Difference or Gain Real-World Experience? Explore dozens of meaningful volunteer and internship opportunities at the Non-Profit Volunteer and Internship Fair at KIRKHOF CENTER NORTH...

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

September 16, 2026 12:00 PM - 1:00 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...

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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