What can I do with an international relations degree? The question is: what can't you?

4 min read

What is international relations, why and how? Not all of this makes sense. That’s a good thing—globalization means breaking barriers and communicating in a way we all understand. Why study international relations? To understand exactly what I’m talking about.

We’ve started fast. Sorry. Let’s get back to basics: international relations is a relatively new field that studies the unique relationships between different countries and cultures. These in turn affect economics, law, security and governance. Study of international relations offers shows how developmental issues, climate change and human rights are forming our day-to-day lives.

Why study international relations? 5 reasons why

The Master in International Relations at IE School of Politics, Economics & Global affairs will put you at the forefront of societal change. With three specializations to choose from, our goal is to empower you in find the niche that fits. These include: Geopolitics and Diplomacy; International Economics and Business; and Global Governance and Cooperation.

To get you onboard, we’ve compiled five reasons why you should study international relations with us. And, just because we care, we’ve thrown in extra tip at the end (it’ll cost you nothing).

1.    Numerous career options

Wondering “what can I do with an international relations degree?” After honing your decision-making, analytical and interpersonal skills, you can do just about anything. A comprehensive understanding of multinational markets puts you in high demand with employers. Whether you want to work in private or public sectors, an international relations master will set you up for varied careers. You could choose to work as a diplomat, intelligence or policy analyst, international marketing manager, political risk analyst, public affairs specialist, and more.

What can I do with an international relations degree?
What is international relations degree

2.    Develop key transferable skills

You’ll be the most interesting guest at the dinner party—and probably the highest earner. An understanding of global industries makes you an authority on lots of relevant topics. After studying our Master in International Relations, you’ll be an expert in public speaking, communication, data analysis, cooperation, critical thinking, conflict resolution and more. It’s not just about the career you choose, it’s about thriving. Studying an international relations degree with us will make that happen.

3.    Gain real-world experience

Travel, travel, travel. What is international relations if not the application of a global perspective, after all? Working in international relations means a career path that opens your vistas. At IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs, we set you up for this international mindset: you’ll spend one week visiting Brussels, the European Union and leading international organizations to ensure they’re prepared for a transnational career, along with exchange programs across the world. Prior to graduation, students you’ll also carry out the Capstone Project in with organizations in the public, private or nonprofit sectors. The result? An readiness to lead nations under any circumstance.

What can I do with a masters in international relations
What to do with an international relations degree

4.    Be part of a team

At its core, international relations is a highly collaborative field. Whether you’ll end up in an embassy or a boardroom, your job will always be a team effort. The Master in International Relations has you working your collaborative muscles all throughout the program, with a strong focus on group work inside the classroom. Studying at IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs also gives you a great headstart on making connections with people from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a global impact, establishing a strong network that will nurture your career.

5.    Make a positive impact

The program was designed in collaboration with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). This means that you will get hands-on experience in how the organization solves social, economic and environmental challenges for the benefit of millions around the world. Passionate about fighting social injustice? Study global history from a multifaceted lens and become the disruptive leader this world means.

What is international relations degree
What is internationall relations major

Our extra tip

You made it! To understand exactly why to study international relations, just cast your mind back to our old friend Nicolas Sarkozy’s in 2011’s G20 summit. Speaking of Benjamin Netenyahu, Sarkozy casually remarked to Barack Obama: “I can’t stand him. He’s a liar.” According to French website Arret sur Images, Obama responded: “You’re tired of him; what about me? I have to deal with him every day.” An IE graduate would never!

Our tip? Always know what mics are turned on and how close they are. You can have that one for free.