“International Relations: From Theory to the Situation Room
It’s 2 A.M. Tensions are tight in the room. The superpower has declared a naval blockade, and the stock markets are crashing now. However this is a sophomore seminar in Georgetown University not the White House Situation Room.
Many students vaguely think International Relations (IR) as a major learning politics and history. However, in reality, American universities especially those in Washington D.C. and New York are real life high-stakes simulations. Then how do top American universities develop the next generation of global leaders? What classes do they have?
1. Curriculum: No Diplomacy Without Economics and Geography
The most notable characteristic or feature of an IR major in the U.S. colleges is “Interdisciplinary”. There are no classes where students just have to memorize dates of treaties. For example, at Georgetown SFS (School of Foreign Service), a highly recognized institution for IR, first year students are required to study “Map of the Modern World”, the famous course of SFS. Students unfold the maps and examine how geographic factors such as mountains, rivers, and borders determine a nation’s conflicts, economic alliances, and political destiny.
Also, surprisingly, economics is also one of the most emphasized skills. This is because modern diplomacy cannot be discussed without understanding trade, exchange rates, and financial sanctions. While IR is a humanities major, even courses of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and international finance are required. This training becomes a powerful weapon for graduates to enter the finance or consulting sectors.
2. Class Style: “What if you were the President?”
U.S. college classrooms are not places where students just write notes quietly. The professor constantly asks “Why” to students, and they engage in heated debates.
These are two main factors that students learn in classes: Simulations or Case Studies and Language Training.
Classes modeled at Harvard Kennedy School or Georgetown SFS are often immersive situations. Students are also assigned roles such as “President” or “Ambassador” in a scenario similar to the current international conflicts to negotiate and resolve problems. Through this, students learn and experience the art of negotiation and crisis management that are not included in textbooks.
Students should not just be able to speak some words of foreign languages, however, they must be able to converse and debate with the languages. To graduate, students must pass an Oral Proficiency exam where they discuss complex political and social issues with a native speaker. In IR, language is the essential fundamental tool for understanding culture and persuading others.
3. Environment: The “DC Advantage” and The Reality for International Students
The biggest benefit of studying IR in the U.S. is being close to power. Even the term “Hillternship” (Capitol Hill + Internship) is often used by students in Washington, D.C. However, international students must overcome a hurdle of security clearance. High-profile internships at federal agencies, such as White House or State Department, are eligible for U.S. citizens. This is not a dead end, though. Clever students turn to political risk firms, international NGOs, or Think Tanks like CSIS or Brookings.
In addition, many students find opportunities to study and analyze how geopolitical shifts impact global markets at their home country’s Embassy in D.C. or in the Private Sector such as Political Risk firms. The important key is finding a niche where students’ international background is advantageous, not just looking for a job.
4. Career: Beyond the Diplomat
“If I major in IR, do I have to become a diplomat?” This is partially right. The U.S. IR graduates have a wide range of career paths.
- International Organizations & NGOs: Solving global problems at the UN, World Bank, etc.
- Global Business & Consulting: Working as Political Risk Analysts to strategize investments for multinational corporations.
- Law & Journalism: Proceeding to law school or becoming international correspondents.
Conclusion
Studying International Relations in the United States involves more than just learning knowledge. It also involves the process of gaining a “Perspective” to view the world and the “Skills” to resolve conflicts. If you want to go beyond your desk and become a global leader who tackles the real world, U.S. IR programs may offer you one of the grandest stages.