International Relations

major, minor

/ Academics / Departments & Programs / Politics and Economics / Academics / International Relations Major

International Relations

major, minor

Degree Overview

Study political systems and interactions across the globe while developing a range of related skills.

As you pursue an international relations degree, you'll explore the theory and practice of global politics. You'll gain the skills and knowledge to advocate for human rights and resolve conflicts from a Christian perspective. Whether at home or abroad, you'll be well prepared for a career in fields ranging from diplomacy, international law, and international business, to non-profit humanitarian work.

Program Distinctives

Practical learning - 90% of Calvin students have an internship experience before they graduate. As you pursue your political science major, you might intern at a government office, courtoom, law firm, advocacy group, or NGO.
Expert teaching - You'll learn from faculty who have expert knowledge in their fields, and you'll have opportunity to engage closely with your professors and peers.
Learn abroad - With several faculty-led study abroad programs, you'll have plenty of opportunities to study off-campus in places like Washington D.C., Ghana, and Hungary.

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Degree Information

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    Internship experience

    Political science majors, particularly those who do not anticipate pursuing either law school or some graduate program shortly after graduation, are encouraged to enroll in internship programs. Interested students can find more information about on the Internship page.

    IR Major Cognate Requirement

    Students wishing to complete an International Relations major must complete a cognate set of courses that complement the major. Students have three options to complete the cognate requirement.

    Option 1

    Take any three of the following courses (note that some of these courses have prerequisites):

    Option 2

    Complete an approved off-campus semester program (with a maximum of three credits from the program counting towards the regular, non-cognate requirements of the International Relations major).

    Option 3

    Complete nine credits of foreign language beyond the 202-level.

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