If you've ever thought it would be cool to be an ambassador, or to work
in a North American company's Asian or European headquarters, you might want
to think about studying international relations.
International relations is most often offered by a school's political
science department, but some universities have separate programs that
focus exclusively on international relations.
Most programs are offered at the master's level, though students
taking a bachelor's in political science can take classes in international
politics. Students may also do a bachelor's degree in a related field, such
as business administration, economics or a foreign language, before applying
to a master's program in international relations.
Expect to earn at least a master's degree to find employment in this field.
Students wanting to major in international relations should have communication
skills, analytical thinking skills, problem-solving skills and an open mind.
Cynthia Alexander is the coordinator of a university political science
graduate program. "Students shouldn't expect to learn 'the truth,'" she says.
"In the humanities and social sciences, students are asked to appreciate multiple
ways of knowing the world."
The Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs is an
association of 22 graduate schools of international affairs. According to
its website, good international relations programs "integrate political science,
economics, history, law and business, as well as comparative, regional and
international studies."
In high school, take economics, communication, math, analytical thinking
and psychology. Get involved in anything pertaining to leadership or anything
that involves communication.
"Students should seek out extracurricular activities which strengthen
their abilities to work with others, including people who won't share
their beliefs or have the same degree of motivation and interest," says Alexander.
Many high schools and youth groups organize model United Nations activities.
These are good experience.
Participating in work exchange programs, traveling to international
countries for vacations and getting involved with international student organizations
are great ways to increase your knowledge about other countries.
The biggest expense besides tuition is textbooks.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Find more information related to this field of study
E-International Relations
Lots of articles, interviews, blogs and more on internatinal
relations
Careers in Government
This site has lots of info on public sector organizations