While there are numerous careers with a degree in international relations, if you’re interested in working overseas or at an intergovernmental agency, then your job options will be limited.
The field of international relations is a large one. There are many kinds of jobs a degree in this field can lead to. This article will provide a list of careers that typically require a degree in international relations, as well as resources for how to get each kind of job.
Are you thinking about a career in international relations? Or are you wondering if it’s really the right choice for you? Well, I’ll tell you what I tell my clients: there’s no right or wrong answer. There are lots of great jobs out there, whether you have a degree in IR or not. And it’s true; there are lots of jobs, and they’re good ones too! You just have to know where to look.
Careers with a degree in international relations
So what are your options if you have a degree in international relations?
Globalization has created new markets, expanded others, and opened opportunities far from your own backyard. While this job market is exciting, the decades it has been at work mean a more competitive job market for entry-level and graduate students of International Relations.
The world is becoming increasingly globalised, and it’s now more important than ever for an organization to have a global mindset. On average, almost 70 percent of executives in companies with annual revenues of $1 billion or higher have international experience. Along with multiculturalism comes a global risk management that requires skilled communication and innovative thinking by leaders.
There are numerous opportunities for those interested in public service with a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations. An internship early on with a federal agency is highly recommended. Important skills in the field include: foreign language proficiency, research, writing and communication skills, foreign policy analysis, political awareness, conflict resolution and diplomacy but above all else: learning how to efficiently work and organize large amounts of data.
First, you should look into what it would be like to work outside of the U.S., and determine if you would like to go abroad for a period of time. Once that is established, there are many other opportunities students can consider if they would like to stay in the U.S. and work as an international relations major.
A degree in International Relations prepares students to work in a wide variety of careers. Recent college graduates have found entry level jobs as:
With a globalized workforce and the increasing complexity of international politics, obtaining a background in international affairs has never been more relevant for a career in the military. This is especially important as globalization continues to give way to increasing competition between major powers, specifically with threats posed by the likes of the Islamic State and North Korea. The importance of diplomacy, negotiation and even martial prowess in a world that cannot be controlled by one country alone only highlights the importance of international affairs for anyone looking for a stable career with increased political necessity.
In 1940, the United States went to war with Germany. In 1967, the United States began a bombing campaign against North Vietnam. These are two great examples of the kinds of issues that international relations graduates are prepared to deal with in the work force. While they may be called upon to address many different kinds of political and economic issues, they all ultimately come back to the central questions of power and control.
