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International Relations

Bachelor of Arts

Program Overview

Examine the role of the nation-state over time, as well as the influence of other global factors.

International relations majors at Agnes Scott explore the major issues of international politics today, as well as the evolution of the current international system.

As an interdisciplinary program, the international relations major relies upon the perspectives, theories, insights, and methods of several liberal arts disciplines, including economics, history, political science, and others. Coursework in international relations requires students to grapple with the politics of peace and war, and the nature and exercise of power within the international system.

International relations studies professor lecturing at a podium.

What You'll Learn

In addition to introductory and upper-level courses in political science and economics, students choose to focus on a particular geographic area in their studies—Europe and Russia, Africa, Asia or Latin America—and they are required to take an additional course beyond the intermediate level in a foreign language. You'll also learn:

  • How to identify, understand, and evaluate and explain the major theories and approaches to international relations and [changing] roles of key leaders in the international system
  • Strong reading and analytical skills in engaging with theoretical and popular writing in international relations
  • Cross-cultural awareness and sensitivity

Program Highlights

Broaden Your Worldview

The international relations courses at Agnes Scott encourage students not only to learn about the various aspects of the global system, but to think in new ways about how those interconnections have been systematically shaped by history, politics and economics. In courses such as The African Diaspora, Global Migration and International Finance, participants in the major learn to think critically about the world in which they live.

The City of Atlanta

Atlanta provides many hands-on internship opportunities for international relations majors, including The Carter Center, The International Chambers of Commerce, and The Coca-Cola Company.

Community Engagement

Many international relations majors take an active role in the Model UN, a simulation of the UN General Assembly and its other multilateral bodies where students perform an ambassador role while debating topics such as gender equality, climate action, global health, and more. Students also have opportunity to work with community partners like the Global Village School and the International Rescue Committee.

Meet the Faculty

Eleanor Morris

Eleanor G. Morris

Associate Professor of Political Science, Director of International Relations

Working in International Relations

Competency in a foreign language and a solid education in economics and global market forces are a powerful asset in any industry enabling you to contribute valuable insight and perspective to your organization.

As you explore the relations among both nations and non-governmental parties, you will draw from the perspectives, theories, insights and methods of several disciplines to acquire the knowledge needed to work in several professions. Many of our graduates have gone on to teach in both the United States and abroad, work in journalism, join the Peace Corps, and work at the state department. Others have pursued law school, graduate school or business school.

  • Analyst
  • Import-Export Coordinator
  • Translator
  • Legislative Assistant
  • Program Coordinator
  • Study Abroad Coordinator

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