In this program, you’ll study topics such as international law, conflict resolution, globalization and foreign policy analysis, to analyze the dynamics between nations and multinational companies. As an international relations major, you’ll apply theory and quantitative analysis to real-world problems that prepare you for positions in diplomacy, security, international relations, private enterprises and more. You’ll also be prepared to secure related roles within academia, journalism, government agencies and nonprofit organizations.
The knowledge and skills you’ll develop
This interdisciplinary program equips you with specialized knowledge in international relations and a range of transferable skills in research, team-based collaboration and problem-solving. In addition to your coursework, you’ll have opportunities to exercise your skills by completing internships, fellowships and other professional opportunities. Additional competencies you'll develop include:
- Applying statistical analysis and quantitative reasoning to real-world scenarios.
- Comprehending advanced elements of the political and legal systems.
- Practicing action-driven writing for decision-making.
- Understanding global trends within international institutions and regions.
- Utilizing critical reasoning and argumentation.
What are the differences between this BS and a BA in international relations?
The major differences between the international relations BS and BA programs fall within the required coursework. As a student in the BS program, you aren’t required to take a language course like in the BA program. Instead, you’ll be required to take four other courses not required for the BA program including Political Statistics, an extra upper division track elective, and two science and society courses.
Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in international relations explores how countries and non-governmental organizations interact with each other on a global scale. In this program, you’ll cover how the world functions politically through topics such as diplomacy, conflict and trade. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for careers in government, international business or nonprofit organizations.
As an international relations major, you’ll be required to complete Political Statistics, where you’ll learn how to conduct regression, ANOVA and chi-square tests. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to take Policy Design Studio and play the role of a U.S. embassy official and address real events as they happen under the guidance of a former ambassador.
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
students enrolled as of fall 2024
in research expenditures in FY23
interdisciplinary schools and departments
undergraduate degrees
graduate degrees
for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”