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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.



Kaplan University
Kaplan University Advance your career and get the distinct competitive advantage you need with an online degree from Kaplan University. And do it without missing a day of work.

  • BS in Political Science
  • BS in Liberal Studies
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.

  • B.S. in Business/Global Management
  • B.S. in Liberal Studies
  • A.A. in General Studies
Strayer University
Strayer University Get the right foundation for your future with a degree from Strayer University. Evening, weekend and online classes are all available to meet the needs of busy adults.

  • BBA: International Business
  • MBA: International Business
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.

  • BS, International Business
  • AAS, International Business
  • AS, International Business
  • BS, Bus Admin-Int'l Business
  • BBA, International Business
Walden University
Walden University Balance your personal and professional commitments while earning a respected Ph.D., master's degree, or bachelor's degree online at Walden University. Programs offered in management, education, psychology and health and human services.

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration - Course-based - Local Government Management for Sustainab
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration - Mixed-Model - Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
  • M.S. in Criminal Justice Leadership & Executive Management - Law and Public Policy
  • Master of Public Policy - Health Policy
  • Master of Public Administration - Policy Analysis
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University

Earn your degree online with Grand Canyon University. We offer approximately 100 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs that can be completed 100% online. Degree programs are available in the fields of education, nursing and health sciences, business, fine arts and production, and liberal arts.



  • B.A. in History
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
  • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - International Business
The University of Liverpool
The University of Liverpool Advance your career and increase your earning potential with a masters or a doctoral degree from the University of Liverpool. Study online in small groups of business professionals.

  • Master of Science in Global Human Resource Management
  • Master of Science In International Management
  • MSc in International Management (Oil and Gas)
  • Master of Business Administration (International Business)
Baker College Online
Baker College Online Baker College Online is fully accredited and offers over 40 programs that will help you earn your Certificate, Associate, Bachelor, Master's or Doctorate degree affordably. Learn more now.

  • Bachelor of General Studies
Keiser University
Keiser University Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

  • Business Administration - International Business, BA (Online)