International Relations Course in the USA

Introduction to studying international relations

An international relations degree in the USA focuses on global politics, diplomacy, and international affairs. This field of study is centered on understanding how countries interact with one another, the role of international organizations, and the impact of global issues on the world stage.

A significant benefit of pursuing an international relations degree in the USA is that the United States hosts numerous international organizations and foreign embassies, providing unique access to practical experiences, internships, and networking opportunities.

The USA's diverse culture and strong emphasis on free speech and critical thinking foster an environment where students can engage in open discourse on global issues, expanding their perspectives. Graduates of international relations programs in the USA find themselves well-equipped for diplomacy, international business, non-governmental organizations, and academic careers.

Types of International Relations Degrees

Bachelor's Degree in International Relations 

A bachelor's degree in international relations is a dynamic 4-year undergraduate program that provides a comprehensive understanding of global politics, diplomacy, and international affairs. Students explore international conflict resolution, global economics, and international law. This degree equips graduates with critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing them for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, non-profits, and more.

• Course Fees: $20,000 to $50,000 per year
• Course Duration: 4 years to complete.
• Entry Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, standardized test scores (e.g., SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. International students may also need to demonstrate English proficiency through exams like TOEFL or IELTS.

Master's Degree in International Relations

A master's degree in international relations offers an in-depth exploration of global politics, diplomacy, and international affairs. Students study topics such as international security, global governance, and conflict resolution, understanding the world's complexities comprehensively. This advanced degree equips graduates for diverse career paths, including diplomacy, foreign service, international organizations, policy analysis, and academia.

• Course Fees: $15,000 to $60,000 or more per year
• Course Duration: 1 to 2 years
• Entry Requirements: Bachelor's degree, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and often, a competitive GRE score. 

PhD in International Relations

A PhD in international relations is a rigorous research-oriented program. Students delve deep into global governance, conflict resolution, and international law. They conduct original research, contributing to the field's knowledge. This expertise can open doors to high-level academic positions, think tanks, government agencies, and international organizations.

• Fees: $25,000 to $50,000 or more per year.
• Duration: 3 to 5 years 
• Entry Requirements: Students must have a relevant master's degree, a strong academic record, a research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, many programs may require standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT.

Scholarships

Scholarships for international students pursuing international relations courses in the USA can help alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad. Here are some scholarships and funding options to consider:

• Fulbright Program: The Fulbright Program offers various scholarships for international students, including the Fulbright Foreign Student Program. It provides funding for graduate-level study in international relations.
• Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program: This program offers scholarships to students from developing countries pursuing master's or Ph.D. degrees in fields related to international development, including International Relations.
• The United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarships: UWC offers scholarships for international students to attend colleges and universities in the USA, including those offering International Relations programs.
• Rotary Peace Fellowships: Rotary International provides fully funded fellowships for individuals interested in peace and conflict resolution, a field closely related to international relations.
• Government Scholarships: Some governments offer scholarships for citizens to study abroad in the USA. For example, the British Chevening Scholarships and the Australian Awards are options for their respective citizens.
• University Scholarships: Many U.S. universities offer scholarships and financial aid to international students. These can be based on academic merit, need, or both.
• Private Foundations and Organizations: Various private foundations, NGOs, and organizations offer scholarships for international students pursuing international Relations. Examples include the World Bank Scholarships Program and the United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarships.

Jobs and Careers

Graduates find employment in international organizations, government agencies, and diplomatic services, where they work as diplomats, foreign affairs analysts, or international development specialists. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also provide opportunities in areas like humanitarian aid and human rights advocacy. The private sector seeks international relations professionals for roles in multinational corporations, market analysis, and global strategy development.

Salary

Entry-level positions in international organizations, governments, or NGOs may offer salaries from $40,000 to $60,000 annually. As professionals gain experience and move into more senior roles, their earnings can increase significantly, with mid-career salaries often ranging from $70,000 to $100,000 or more. Senior professionals, such as diplomats or international consultants, earn well over $100,000, sometimes exceeding $150,000 annually.

Where can I study International Relations in the US?

To learn more about the best international relations courses in the USA, find details on the top ten ranking universities in the U.S. News University Guide 2024 below:

1. Stanford University
2. Yale University
3. University of Pennsylvania
4. Brown University
5. Johns Hopkins University
6. Northwestern University
7. University of Chicago
8. Georgetown University
9. Carnegie Mellon University
10. Emory University

Study International Relations in the USA

If you want to learn more about studying an international relations course in the USA, arrange a free consultation with SI-USA today.

International Relations Course FAQ

What can I do after pursuing a master's in international relations from the US?

After completing a master's in international relations in the US, you can pursue a career as a diplomat, foreign affairs analyst, international consultant, or policy researcher or work for international organizations, NGOs, or the private sector.

What is the cost of studying for a master's in international relations in the USA for international students?

The cost of studying for a master's in international relations in the USA for international students typically ranges from $25,000 to $60,000 or more per year, depending on the university and location.

Are there language requirements for international students in international relations programs?

Language requirements include English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Some programs may require additional language skills relevant to your chosen specialization.

What is the typical duration of a master's in international relations program in the USA?

A master's in international relations program in the USA typically takes 1 to 2 years to complete, depending on whether it's a full-time or part-time program and whether you choose to pursue a thesis or non-thesis track.