International relations is a discipline within political science that looks at how countries, governments, and non-state actors (non-governmental organizations, individuals, and companies) interact with one another. It often draws from other disciplines, including anthropology, history, law, economics, geography, philosophy, and sociology, to understand the world around us. It’s a wide-ranging field that provides a number of options for graduate studies and careers.
1. Learn to collaborate across cultures
The ability to collaborate with people from a variety of cultural backgrounds is vital in the study and practice of international relations. Through group projects, discussions and case studies, students build their cultural sensitivity and understanding to better communicate with different perspectives. This can be particularly beneficial for international diplomats and global business professionals, but is also a valuable skill in any job role.
2. Gain a deeper understanding of the world around you
IR students examine how global systems work and the impact of global decisions in areas such as international security, economy, business, environment, or health. Some IR graduates focus their studies on a particular country or region while others choose to explore more general themes of human interactions and global change.
3. Become more confident in your leadership skills
Working in the field of international relations requires the ability to lead and negotiate. It’s a highly collaborative profession, whether you’re in an embassy or a boardroom, so having strong interpersonal skills is key to success. The skills that you develop through your IE master’s in IR will help you establish and nurture connections that will support your career long after graduation.
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