What Can I Become If I Study an International Relations Degree?

Exploring Career Paths: What You Can Achieve with an International Relations Degree

An International Relations (IR) degree offers an expansive view of global issues and prepares you for a variety of dynamic career paths. By studying international relations, you gain insight into diplomacy, global politics, economic systems, and the cultural and historical factors that shape the world. Let’s explore some of the exciting career opportunities available to IR graduates.

Getting an International Relations degree, especially a Master’s, will equip you with the tools to bring real change to the world. It provides insights into foreign affairs, public policies, international development, economic trends, social issues, law, and more. The scope of International Relations encompasses maintaining positive diplomatic relations between countries, preventing international conflicts, and ensuring smooth operations between governments in our interconnected world.

With this degree, you will have a broad range of career options, including fields like politics, economics, social systems, and the cultural life of communities. Popular career paths include diplomacy, lobbying, political analysis, international law, and intelligence work.

1. Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer

One of the most prestigious roles for IR graduates is becoming a diplomat. Diplomats represent their country’s interests abroad, negotiate treaties, and foster international cooperation.

Skills Required: Communication, negotiation, cultural awareness, and problem-solving.
Where to Work: Embassies, consulates, or international organizations like the United Nations.

As a diplomat, your responsibilities include:

Acting as a link between the country you represent and the host country.
Collecting and reporting information that impacts your nation’s interests.
Discussing, negotiating, and mediating issues about peace, trade, economics, and cultural aspects.

2. International Development Specialist

If you’re passionate about global humanitarian efforts, working in international development is an ideal choice. These professionals focus on improving living conditions, education, healthcare, and infrastructure in developing countries.

Skills Required: Project management, fundraising, and cultural sensitivity.
Where to Work: NGOs, international aid organizations, or government agencies like USAID or DFID.

3. Policy Analyst

Policy analysts examine and evaluate policies that address global challenges such as climate change, trade agreements, or international security.

Skills Required: Research, critical thinking, and expertise in a specific policy area.
Where to Work: Think tanks, research institutions, or governmental bodies.

Political analysts also interpret political developments, analyze laws, and forecast trends, often working for governments, media outlets, or research institutes.

4. Global Business Consultant

An IR degree can also pave the way for a career in international business. Global business consultants help companies navigate international markets, trade regulations, and cross-cultural management.

Skills Required: Business acumen, cultural understanding, and strategic planning.
Where to Work: Multinational corporations or consulting firms.

5. Journalist or Foreign Correspondent

For those with a passion for storytelling and current affairs, international journalism is a thrilling option. Foreign correspondents report on global events, from politics to humanitarian crises.

Skills Required: Writing, research, and adaptability.
Where to Work: Media outlets, newspapers, or online news platforms.

6. Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence analysts assess global threats and provide insights to national security agencies. This role involves analyzing geopolitical developments, monitoring security risks, and formulating strategies.

Skills Required: Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
Where to Work: Government intelligence agencies or private security firms.

Your duties as an intelligence specialist may include:

Collecting and analyzing operational intelligence data.
Creating mission reports using data, maps, and charts.
Maintaining intelligence databases and preparing reports.

7. Human Rights Advocate

Human rights advocates work to protect and promote fundamental freedoms worldwide. This can include lobbying governments, raising awareness, and providing support to vulnerable populations.

Skills Required: Advocacy, legal knowledge, and public speaking.
Where to Work: Human rights organizations like Amnesty International or Human Rights Watch.

8. International Trade Specialist

International trade specialists facilitate global commerce by navigating trade laws, analyzing market trends, and developing strategies for exporting or importing goods.

Skills Required: Economic analysis, negotiation, and knowledge of trade policies.
Where to Work: Trade commissions, private firms, or government agencies.

9. Academician or Researcher

An academic career allows you to contribute to the field of international relations through teaching and research. Academicians analyze global trends, publish studies, and educate the next generation of IR professionals.

Skills Required: In-depth knowledge, research, and communication.
Where to Work: Universities, think tanks, or international research organizations.

10. Environmental Policy Advisor

Global environmental challenges like climate change require coordinated international responses. Environmental policy advisors work to create sustainable policies and foster international collaboration.

Skills Required: Knowledge of environmental science, policy analysis, and collaboration.
Where to Work: Environmental NGOs, government agencies, or international bodies like the UN Environment Programme.

Average International Relations Job Salaries

While a meaningful career is important, financial stability also matters. Here are some average annual salaries for popular IR career paths in the US:

Diplomat: $87,000
Intelligence Specialist: $75,500
Political Analyst: $94,000
Lobbyist: $87,500
Communication Specialist: $55,000

Top Universities for International Relations Degrees

If you’re unsure where to begin your IR journey, here are some recommended universities:

Northeastern University, US
Queen Mary University of London, UK
Radboud University, Netherlands
University of Pavia, Italy
Masaryk University, Czech Republic

Conclusion

An International Relations degree offers a gateway to a multitude of impactful and exciting careers. Whether your interests lie in diplomacy, business, human rights, or global security, the skills and knowledge you gain from this degree can shape a fulfilling career. To succeed, develop essential skills like mastering foreign languages, improving communication, and enhancing negotiation abilities. By complementing your studies with internships and networking, you can make a meaningful difference in our interconnected world.