Political Science: International Relations & Comparative Politics

In an era of globalization in which all nations depend on trade, effective communication across borders and oceans is becoming increasingly important.

While the differences are most easily noted, the similarities between cultures, nations, politics and people are what connect us and help us relate in the global arena. As the world is inextricably connected through commerce and technology, how we relate to one another is more relevant than ever. Through a concentration in international relations and comparative politics, you will delve into such topics from foreign policy analysis and international security, to social movements and humanitarian law, and political parties and electoral systems.

The Curriculum

View the 2024-2025 Academic Catalog to find course titles, numbers and descriptions.

Requirements for B.A. in Political Science with a Concentration in International Relations & Comparative Politics

Six Core Courses

  • POLSC1201 Introduction to American Politics and Government (SA) (SS) (SJ)
  • POLSC1301  Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics (SA) (SS)
  • POLSC1401 Introduction to International Relations (SA) (SS)
  • POLSC1501 Political Theory 
  • POLSC2701 Research Methods in Political Science 
  • POLSC4100 Senior Seminar

Five additional Political Science courses, chosen from the list below, exclusive of internships or directed studies. At least two must be at the 3000-level.

  • POLSC2301 Politics of Race and Ethnicity in Latin America and Caribbean*
  • POLSC2302 European Politics: From Transition to Integration
  • POLSC2401 American Foreign Policy
  • POLSC2409 The Politics of International Economic Relations
  • POLSC2411 The Contemporary Middle East and North Africa: Challenges and Promise 
  • POLSC2413 International Law and Institutions
  • POLSC2415 In the Footsteps of Thucydides*
  • POLSC2417 Statecraft and Globalization*
  • POLSC2419 The Geopolitics of Democracy*
  • POLSC2421 Model United Nations
  • POLSC2503 Revolution and Nationalism
  • POLSC3301 Comparative Politics of Developing States
  • POLSC3303 Street Democracy
  • POLSC3403 Human Issues in International Relations
  • POLSC3405 Negotiating Peace
  • POLSC3407 People and Politics of the Middle East

*Travel Course

At the completion of Political Science degree, the student will:

  • Understand the basic tools and concepts of the discipline of political science and each of its subfields: American Government, Comparative Politics, International Relations and Political Theory
  • Understand how the various subfields interact
  • Demonstrate a practical application of concepts and theories of the discipline
  • Be able to orally communicate effectively
  • Develop an understanding of non-Western governments
  • Develop an understanding of the interactions in the international arena

What can I do with a degree in international relations and comparative politics?

A degree in comparative politics and international relations can prepare you for a variety of careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Here are some examples:

  • International relations specialist: You can work for government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, or the World Bank to analyze and address issues related to international relations.
  • Diplomat: With a degree in comparative politics and international relations, you can work as a diplomat, representing your country's interests abroad and negotiating with foreign governments on a variety of issues.
  • Political analyst: You can work for research institutes, think tanks, or political campaigns, analyzing political trends and policies at the national and international levels.
  • Journalist: You can work as a journalist covering international news and events for newspapers, magazines, or broadcast media.
  • Intelligence analyst: You can work for government agencies such as the CIA, analyzing intelligence reports and assessing threats to national security.
  • Consultant: With your knowledge of global politics and international relations, you can work as a consultant for multinational corporations, helping them navigate political and cultural differences in different countries.
  • NGO or non-profit worker: You can work for NGOs or non-profit organizations, working on issues related to human rights, poverty, conflict resolution, or international development.

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