INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS MAJOR
Help to bring about change in the world. Global developments are determined by international politics, and studying international relations will provide you a better understanding of the global effects of historical and current world affairs.
International relations is concerned with the way in which actors, including sovereign states, intergovernmental organisations, non-governmental organisations and multinational corporations, interact with each other. These interactions cover a variety of activities, such as diplomacy, trade, conflict, and foreign policy. Studying international relations offers insight and understanding around how both historical and current world affairs influence contemporary international society.
COURSE CONTENT
During the course you will develop critical analysis and thinking through papers, internships and seminars that will provide the student with an international, solutions-based outlook on world issues. The course will provide the foundations for the student to work in the multinational corporate sector as well as international aid and intelligence.
FUTURE DIRECTIONS
Examples of careers for graduates of studies in international relations includes:
Governmental organisations
- Policy
- Communications
- Political assistants
- Researcher or advisor
- Journalist
Diplomacy and embassies
- Diplomat in a nation’s Foreign Service
- Diplomatic Service Officer
Military
- International Affairs Officer
- Governmental or international organisations advisors
- Armed forces Operational Officer
Intergovernmental Organisations
- Political Affairs Officer
- International aid / development worker
Non-governmental organisations
- Journalist
- Public relations
- Media consultants
■ Compulsory paper for this major.
■ Compulsory paper for all BCIS students.
EXPERIENCE-BASED EDUCATION
Through the NZIIA, students who study International Relations at IPU New Zealand will have various opportunities to get involved in practical work and events with external stakeholders including Ambassadors and diplomatic corps. Thereby developing critical global competencies and other transferable skills in real settings.
The New Zealand Institute of International Affairs is an independent, non-governmental organisation that seeks to encourage an understanding of the importance of global affairs to the political and economic well-being of New Zealand.
NZIIA fosters a wider understanding of international issues, trading partnerships and relationships with other countries. At the Palmerston North Branch of the NZIIA, we aim to create a stronger regional voice in international affairs and support an applied approach to community engagement in the Manawatu region.
