Bachelor of Arts in International Relations

Concepts and Theories of Global Power

Our graduates understand key concepts and concerns in international relations including notably the way power is acquired and used globally and how state and nonstate actors interact. Graduates are also familiar with contemporary theories of international relations for use as a lens to explain outcomes and events in world affairs.

Dimensions of Comparative Politics and Political Theory

Our graduates demonstrate an appreciation for the practice of comparative political inquiry, and an understanding of traditions of Western and non-Western political thought.

Global Current Event Awareness and Interpretation

Our graduates are conversant in current international and global political events through a close reading of the news and interpretation of events through international relations theories and concepts.

Research Skills

Our graduates possess the ability to pose and answer relevant political questions through research and analysis. This means they are: familiar with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies employed by scholars of international relations and political science; develop the ability to evaluate and synthesize information from diverse and reliable sources, identifying and differentiating between primary and secondary source material; and use these skills to produce a research paper, opinion paper, personal reflection or analytical essay.

Logical Argumentation and Critical Questioning

Our graduates are able to develop a logical argument and justify a position through written and oral presentations and demonstrate the ability to read and question original research and theoretical writings.

Practical Engagement

Our graduates have studied abroad or engaged in an international internship in order to enhance their global citizenship and cultural competence.

Understanding the Critical Importance of Ethics

Our graduates understand the relationship between personal ethics, individual decision-making and public outcomes at the national and international levels.

Diversity

Our graduates have developed an appreciation for persons with national, racial, ethnic, economic, sexuality, gender and gender identity, religious, and disability identities different from their own. They direct attention to the impact on equality, social justice and the rights of all persons of both individual actions and public policies.