International Relations - BA

Program Overview

The program combines theoretical foundations with practical experience, preparing graduates for diverse careers in government, NGOs, international organizations, and the private sector. Students develop strong analytical and communication skills, cultivate a global mindset, and gain expertise in specific areas of international relations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Bachelor of Arts in International Relations (LAINRBA) at Arizona State University (ASU) equips students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the globalized world.

Objectives:

• Develop strong analytical and communication skills.
• Acquire a deep understanding of international relations theory and practice.
• Gain expertise in specific areas such as national security, cybersecurity, diplomacy, and international trade.
• Cultivate a global mindset and intercultural competence.
• Prepare students for successful careers in various sectors, including public service, NGOs, and the private sector.

Description:

The LAINRBA program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical experience. Students explore critical issues such as conflict resolution, foreign policy, human rights, intelligence, and international law. They learn from renowned faculty with expertise in diverse areas of international relations and benefit from unique internship and research opportunities.

• The program features a global focus, with opportunities to study abroad and engage with international organizations.
• Students gain valuable practical experience through internships and research projects.
• The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths in government, NGOs, international organizations, and the private sector.

Outline:

Program Content:

• National Security: Explores the complex dynamics of international security, including terrorism, cyberwarfare, and nuclear proliferation.
• Cybersecurity: Focuses on the evolving landscape of cyber threats and strategies for protecting critical infrastructure.
• Intelligence: Examines the role of intelligence agencies in national security and policy analysis.
• Diplomacy: Analyzes the art and science of international negotiations and conflict resolution.
• International Trade: Investigates the global economic system, including trade agreements, foreign direct investment, and international finance.
• International Law and Institutions: Explores the legal framework governing international relations and the role of intergovernmental organizations.
• Global Challenges: Addresses pressing issues such as climate change, poverty, and human rights.

Program Structure:

• The LAINRBA program is a four-year program consisting of 120 credit hours.
• The curriculum is divided into core courses, electives, and a capstone project.
• Core courses provide a foundation in international relations theory and practice.
• Electives allow students to focus on specific areas of interest and develop their expertise.
• The capstone project requires students to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world problem.

Course Schedule:

• The program offers a variety of courses taught by experienced faculty.
• Courses are offered in a variety of formats, including lectures, seminars, and online modules.
• Conflict Resolution: This module equips students with the skills and knowledge to analyze and resolve international conflicts.
• Foreign Policy Analysis: This module provides students with a framework for understanding the formulation and implementation of foreign policy.
• International Political Economy: This module explores the interconnectedness of politics and economics on a global scale.
• Global Governance: This module examines the various institutions and actors involved in governing the international system.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Foreign Service Officer
• Security and Policy Analyst
• Intelligence Analyst
• International Relations Specialist
• Diplomat
• Trade Negotiator
• Consultant
• Researcher
• Journalist
• Academic

Career Outcomes:

Graduates of the LAINRBA program are well-prepared for careers in various sectors, including:

• Government: Federal agencies, state departments, intelligence agencies, and foreign service.
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs): Human rights organizations, development agencies, and environmental groups.
• International organizations: United Nations, World Bank, and regional organizations.
• Private sector: Multinational corporations, consulting firms, and financial institutions.

Other:

• The program offers a second language requirement, ensuring students develop language proficiency essential for global engagement.
• The program features a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking and communication skills.
• Students benefit from access to ASU's extensive global network of academic partnerships and internship opportunities.
• The program prepares graduates for advanced study in international relations, law, public policy, and other related fields.