Take a deep dive into international politics to prepare for a career in diplomacy, international law or global public policy.
The international relations BA degree is an interdisciplinary studies program.
What Can You Do with an International Relations Degree?
With its focus on global politics, the global economy and global development, a degree in international relations gives you the ability to analyze and understand the major challenges facing today’s interconnected world. Interdisciplinary in approach but anchored in political science, the program provides strong analytical skills to prepare for success in almost any global career, from international law and diplomacy to governmental affairs, advocacy, nonprofits, think tanks and public policy, higher education and NGOs. Many students also go on to advanced graduate study.
Why Earn Your BA in International Relations?
- Gain hands-on experience at the United Nations or with international firms, banks and NGOs involved in pressing global issues.
- Learn through active participation in small classes, with award-winning faculty recognized for their scholarship.
- Be career-ready by the time you graduate after connecting with internships, professional development opportunities and our powerful alumni network.
What Can You Do with a Degree in International Relations?
A degree in international relations is a gateway to success in any global career, from international law and business to diplomacy, governmental affairs, advocacy, nonprofits, think tanks and public policy, higher education and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).
All About Global Studies
Saira Amar, Focused on Global Thinking
Featured in Adelphi’s Spring 2022 episode of The College Tour on Amazon Prime, Saira Amar majored in international relations.
The study of international relations opens our eyes to the interconnections between societies, economies and peoples. Our program takes advantage of our location outside New York City—a crossroad of the global economy and a hub of multilateral diplomacy—to broaden students’ participation in global public policymaking.
Katie Laatikainen, PhD
professor, political science
Undergraduate International Relations Tracks
The interdisciplinary international relations major prepares you for a variety of careers, ranging from international business and government affairs to diplomacy, international law and advocacy. You select one of three thematic tracks, with each culminating in a senior capstone seminar.
This track focuses on the global nature of economic interactions and interplay of the public and private sectors across borders and prepares you for careers in international business or government affairs.
This track concentrates on conflict and cooperation and prepares you for a career in diplomacy, international law, Foreign Service or international organizations.
Focusing on the challenges of development and social justice on the global level, this track prepares you to pursue careers in global advocacy and nongovernmental organizations.
Exceptional Hands-On Learning
Experiential learning is a major part of an international relations education at Adelphi. You will broaden your horizons through exciting opportunities beyond the classroom, including study abroad, on-campus guest lectures by experts in the field, and participation in conferences and briefings at the United Nations.
Additionally, you may land a life-changing internship at one of the many organizations in the New York area, including advocacy organizations, social justice groups, NGOS, businesses and media companies.
Recent student placements have included:
- Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations
- NYC Mayor’s Office for International Affairs
- United Nations Department of Global Communications
- Office of U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
- JPMorgan Chase
The International Relations program includes a National Model United Nations course where students attend a 4 day conference at the UN with thousands of university from around the world where they simulate UN negotiations on critical global issues.
Program Info
Application Requirements
To apply for this program, submit the appropriate application requirements:
Transformative Educational Opportunities
All undergraduate students have the opportunity to apply for the following programs to expand their educational landscape:
- The Honors College – fostering intellectual perspectives and critical skills
- Levermore Global Scholars – preparing students to become global thinkers and leaders
- Study Abroad – providing opportunities to experience another culture and see the world from a new perspective
Awards & Recognition
