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International Relations


International relations is the study of global issues that affect different countries as well as foreign affairs. As such, international relations often is considered a political science. Experts in the field are adept at history, economics, international law, gender issues, anthropology, and cultural studies.

Education & Career Opportunities in International Relations

Working as a diplomat is the most well-known career for people who earn international relations degrees. The United States Foreign Service staffs thousands of people at U.S. embassies in different countries.

It is possible to land jobs in international relations with just a bachelor's degree, but higher levels of education, combined with job experience, are invaluable to career advancement. People who earn international relations degrees work in many different fields. International relations jobs include:

  • Immigration specialist
  • Foreign Service officer
  • Journalist
  • Diplomat
  • Foreign affairs specialist

Pay for federal workers varies by rank, but as a rule, federal workers are paid higher and receive larger raises than private-sector employees.

According to the Partnership for Public Service, the following are some salary ranges for various international relations jobs:

  • Intelligence officer: $38,790-$75,600
  • Investigative assistant for immigrations and customs enforcement: $35,360-$56,859
  • Foreign affairs officer: $89,033-$115,742

The federal government also has many departments that send civilians with international relations degrees overseas. Federal jobs include intelligence officers and customs enforcement. The Department of Homeland Security far and away is the largest U.S. employer of international relations positions.



Stratford Career Institute
Stratford Career Institute Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

  • French as a Second Language
University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix As the largest private university in North America, University of Phoenix has more than 200 locations, and is available online in most countries around the world. Whether you're seeking a college degree at an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level, we can help you reach your academic goal—and sooner than you might think.

  • A.A. in General Studies
Berkeley College
Berkeley College Widely recognized as unique among colleges and universities, Berkeley College offers a proven approach to career education that provides students with a competitive edge and the skills sought by employers.

  • AAS, International Business
  • AS, International Business
Colorado Technical University Online
Colorado Technical University Online Take your career to new heights with Colorado Tech Online! Since 1965, Colorado Technical University has helped thousands of students achieve success in business, management and technology careers. Learn more today.

  • Associate of Science in General Studies