International Relations

B.A. in International Relations

In recent decades, the forces of globalization have increased awareness of the interdependent and interrelated nature of modern society. The International Relations major educates students in the historical, political, and cultural forces that shape the interactions between states, international organizations, multi-national corporations, and other international actors.

The International Relations program at Duquesne is truly distinct because it is grounded in the commitment to promoting peace and justice in global society that is essential to the mission of Duquesne and its founders, the Spiritans. Our IR majors come from all continents and are exposed to a challenging and diverse academic curriculum, with the opportunity to choose from 8 areas of concentration and learn from professors and speakers of international reputation.

Career Options

Students majoring in International Relations have a variety of career paths open to them. Majors are prepared to work in a governmental, social, or business environment within an international context. Training in advanced language skills, combined with historical and political knowledge of specific regions of the world, will make International Relations majors very competitive in the job market. International Relations graduates from Duquesne are presently employed by:

  • Government Agencies (e.g.: Homeland Security, State Department, USAID - U.S.
  • Agency for International Development, U.S. Commercial Service)
  • Law Firms
  • NGOs
  • Multinational Corporations (e.g.: Westinghouse, PPG, PNC, BNY Mellon)
  • Non-profit organizations (e.g.: UNICEF, Brother's Brother Foundation)

 

 

Program Type

Major

Degree

Bachelor's

School

McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts

Duration

4-year

Required Credit Hours

36

Program Requirements

Students majoring in International Relations are required to complete 36 credits in the following courses.

  • IR 102 Careers in IR
  • IR 200 Writing and Research in IR
  • IR 393 Political and Economic Geography
  • IR 499 Advanced International Relations Theory
  • Must be at 300 level and above OR 6-credit hours of IR prefixed electives
  • Arabic Studies
  • Asian Studies
  • European and Russian Studies
  • Human Rights and Humanitarian Operations
  • Intelligence and Security Studies
  • Latin America
  • Middle East and Africa
  • U.S. Foreign Policy
  • IR 145 Global Society
  • IR 208 Politics of Great Powers
  • IR 209 Politics of Emerging Powers
  • IR 245 International Relations
  • IR 254 American Foreign Policy
  • IR 345W Security Ethics
  • IR 491 Internship

Double Major in International Relations

Many International Relations students choose to enhance their skills and increase their attractiveness in the job market by completing a double major in 4 years.

Due to the complementary nature of the coursework, many students choose to complete their second major in Political Science, History, Modern Languages and Literatures, or any other offerings in the College of Liberal Arts.

Study Abroad Opportunities

International Relations students are strongly encouraged to spend at least one semester abroad during the course of their undergraduate studies. Through study abroad, students develop global awareness, experience diverse cultures, and gain deeper knowledge in their chosen area of concentration. Study abroad experience is also an excellent addition to a resume for those seeking careers in an IR-related field.

International Relations majors may study abroad in any country, provided that they do so through an accredited program approved by the directors. The University has two campuses abroad: one in Dublin, Ireland, and one in Rome*, Italy.

Duquesne still maintains in Rome its first (since 1985) study abroad/exchange program: DU/Villa Nazareth. For decades, this program has served, in both Italian and English, DU students in all disciplines. Presently, it is only for the majors in International Relations.

The cost of the DU/VN program includes tuition/fees, room/board, public transportation in the city of Rome, as well as a few excursions throughout Italy. Students are responsible for their round trip airfare, course material, and personal miscellanea.