What Can You Do With an International Relations Degree?
April 20, 2026
Exploring careers in diplomacy, government, business, nonprofits and more.
If you're interested in global affairs, politics, economics and the connections between countries, an international relations degree can prepare you for a variety of career paths. Graduates work in fields ranging from diplomacy and public service to business, international development, journalism and nonprofit leadership.
Because international relations is an interdisciplinary field, you'll study topics across political science, economics, history, geography and culture. Along the way, you'll learn how to analyze complex global issues, evaluate different perspectives and understand how decisions made in one part of the world can affect communities around the globe.
Just as important, you'll develop transferable skills that employers value across industries, including research, communication, critical thinking and problem-solving. Whether you're interested in shaping public policy, working for a global organization or helping businesses navigate international markets, an international relations degree can provide a strong foundation for your future career.
What Is an International Relations Degree?
International relations is the study of how countries, governments, international organizations and people interact across national borders. It explores the political, economic, cultural and social forces that shape the world and influence relationships between nations.
As an international relations student, you'll examine global issues from multiple perspectives and learn how countries cooperate, compete and respond to shared challenges. Common areas of study include:
- International politics
- Foreign policy
- Global economics
- International security
- Human rights
- International development
- Environmental policy
- Global conflict and cooperation
Many international relations programs also encourage students to expand their global perspective through foreign language study, internships and study abroad experiences.
The goal is to help students better understand an increasingly interconnected world while developing the analytical, research and communication skills needed to address complex global challenges.
Career Paths for International Relations Students
For many students, an interest in international relations begins with a desire to better understand global affairs and contribute to solutions on an international scale. That's why careers in foreign service and diplomacy are among the most common paths for international relations graduates.
1. Foreign Service and Diplomacy
Many international relations students are drawn to careers that involve shaping policy, strengthening international partnerships and addressing global challenges.
Foreign Service Officers represent the United States abroad, working to advance diplomatic, economic and security interests. Depending on their role, they may analyze policy issues, assist U.S. citizens overseas or help manage relationships between countries.
Other government-focused career paths include intelligence analysis, foreign affairs, policy advising and national security. These roles allow graduates to apply their understanding of global affairs while helping inform important decisions at home and abroad.
2. Government and Public Policy
International relations graduates also often work in federal, state or local government positions focused on policy research and analysis.
Potential roles include:
- Policy Analyst
- Legislative Assistant
- Government Affairs Specialist
- Public Policy Researcher
These professionals help evaluate public policies, analyze current events and provide recommendations to lawmakers.
3. International Business
As companies continue to operate across borders, many employers seek professionals who understand global markets and international issues.
International relations graduates may work in:
- International marketing
- Global supply chain management
- International trade
- Business consulting
- Corporate communications
Their understanding of cultural differences, political environments and economic trends can be valuable in global business settings.
4. Nonprofit and Humanitarian Organizations
Many nonprofit organizations work on issues that cross national boundaries, including education, public health, poverty reduction and human rights.
International relations graduates may pursue roles such as:
- Program Coordinator
- Development Associate
- Advocacy Specialist
- Grant Writer
- Community Outreach Coordinator
These positions allow graduates to contribute to causes that have local, national and global impact.
5. International Development
International development professionals work to improve economic and social conditions in communities around the world.
They may support projects related to:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Economic growth
- Infrastructure
- Sustainability
Careers in this field often involve collaboration with governments, nonprofits and international organizations. One such example includes the Peace Corps.
6. Journalism and Media
Students who enjoy writing and researching current events may find opportunities in journalism and media.
Possible career paths include:
- Reporter
- Foreign Correspondent
- News Researcher
- Communications Specialist
- Political Writer
International relations coursework helps students develop the research and communication skills necessary for these roles. Students typically monitor the news day in and day out to stay up to date with current events.
7. Law
International relations is also a common major for students considering law school.
The major helps students build skills in research, writing, critical thinking and argumentation that are valuable in legal studies.
After earning a law degree, graduates may pursue careers in international law, immigration law, public policy, government or private practice.
Skills Developed Through an International Relations Degree
An international relations degree is about more than understanding global affairs. Along the way, students develop versatile skills that are valued by employers across a wide range of industries.
These skills often include:
- Research and analytical thinking
- Written and verbal communication
- Problem-solving
- Cross-cultural understanding
- Critical reading
- Public speaking
- Collaboration and teamwork
Because these skills are highly transferable, international relations graduates can pursue opportunities in government, business, nonprofits, education, journalism and many other fields. The ability to analyze complex issues, communicate effectively and work with people from diverse backgrounds can be valuable in nearly any professional setting.
Is International Relations the Right Major for You?
International relations may be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy learning about current events and global issues
- Are interested in politics, economics or history
- Like research and discussion-based courses
- Want a major that offers multiple career pathways
- Are curious about different cultures and perspectives
One helpful way to evaluate the major is to think about the types of problems you want to solve. The major is incredibly demanding, but highly rewarding. If you're interested in understanding the forces that shape our world and developing the skills to make an impact, an international relations degree can provide a strong foundation for a variety of meaningful careers.
International Relations at Bucknell
Bucknell University's international relations program combines coursework from multiple disciplines, allowing students to examine global issues through political, economic, historical and cultural perspectives.
Nearly all international relations majors at Bucknell study abroad, and majors are required to pursue a second language which prepares students to make a difference on a global scale. Because the major draws from several academic fields, students can tailor their coursework around topics that align with their interests and career goals.
Majors select an area of concentration to focus on, varying from Africa, Asia, Europe, Eurasia & Russia, Latin America & Caribbean, and Middle East. Additionally, students pursue a thematic track, with options from Culture and Identity, Development and Sustainability, Foreign Policy and Diplomacy, Global Governance, and Conflict Resolution.
Whether students are interested in government service, international business, nonprofit work or graduate study, the interdisciplinary nature of the program can help them build a foundation for a variety of future paths.
Bucknellians who pursued a degree in international relations have gone on to pursue careers in:
- Law
- International Business
- Banking and Finance
- NGOs
- Journalism
- Think Tanks