International Relations (BA)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Webster University Geneva

Program Overview

The BA in International Relations at Webster University Geneva equips you with essential skills to navigate our interconnected world, focusing on global security, trade, finance, human rights, and diplomacy while building a strong professional network through study abroad and real-world opportunities. It's perfect for students passionate about making a global impact, whether in government, international organizations, nonprofits, or business, and it suits those who thrive on analytical thinking, cultural awareness, and problem-solving in diverse settings.

Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Building Foundations
You'll start with core introductions that set the stage for global understanding, diving into INTL 1050/POLT 1050 Introduction to International Relations to explore key concepts and actors in world politics, alongside POLT 1070 Introduction to Political Theory (or INTL 2680 International Relations Theory) for foundational theories of power and governance. This year emphasizes broad perspectives on international issues, helping you analyze events from multiple viewpoints while beginning to develop familiarity with foreign cultures and languages. It's an exciting entry point that sparks your global mindset right away.

Year 2: Exploring Key Systems
Building momentum, you'll tackle INTL 1500 The World System since 1500, tracing historical interdependencies that shape today's world, and pair it with a 2000-level or above international-focused History course to contextualize modern challenges. You'll also select from subfields like INTL 2030 International Law or INTL 3100 International Political Economy, gaining tools to dissect legal frameworks and economic dynamics in global affairs. These courses sharpen your ability to identify major institutions and their roles, preparing you for deeper analysis.

Year 3: Diving into Subfields and Issues
Here, you'll specialize with three subfield courses such as INTL 2610 Advocacy, NGOs, and Civil Society to understand grassroots global influence, INTL 3030 Advanced Studies in International Law (focused on International Refugee Law), or INTL 3700 International Organizations for insights into political conflicts within bodies like the UN. Electives like INTL 3800 International Security let you explore threats and resolutions, fostering skills to analyze issues from non-Western perspectives. This phase hones your ethical problem-solving for real-world diplomacy.

Year 4: Capstone and Application
Culminate with advanced seminars like INTL 4600 International Relations Seminar and INTL 4280 International Economics, synthesizing knowledge through research and policy simulation. You'll apply everything via internships, fieldwork, or practicums at influential organizations, building a portfolio for careers ahead. Graduates emerge confident leaders ready to influence global change.

Focus Areas
Global governance, international security, political economy, human rights, international law, NGOs, refugee/migration issues, and regional studies—all tailored to interconnected challenges like trade, finance, and diplomacy.

Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate knowledge of IR theories and subfields; identify key actors/institutions; analyze issues from diverse perspectives; gain familiarity with foreign cultures/languages.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
Webster's program aligns with high-demand careers in diplomacy, UN/World Bank roles, NGOs, multinationals, and global health/education—backed by combined BA/MA options for faster entry into roles like political scientists earning $139,380 median (BLS 2024). No specific external accreditation noted; university-wide quality ensures global recognition.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)
Webster's global campuses (including Geneva) and study abroad emphasis boost employability, with alumni in diplomacy, intelligence, and international orgs. Official stats highlight strong outcomes in government/nonprofit/business; leverages worldwide network for top placements.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Webster University Geneva, our BA in International Relations immerses you in experiential learning that turns theory into real-world action, building practical skills like diplomacy, policy analysis, and cross-cultural collaboration right from your coursework. You'll engage with global issues through hands-on projects, international travel, and research opportunities tailored to Geneva's unique position as a hub for organizations like the UN and WTO. This means gaining the tools and experience employers crave, all while leveraging our campus's proximity to international diplomacy.

Here are some standout ways our program delivers that practical edge:
- International travel and field experiences: Participate in Webster study abroad programs, ISTL 2500 International Field Experience in Global Studies, or approved high-impact cultural experiences to build cross-cultural competencies.
- Advanced research labs: Dive deep into global policy at the Global Policy Horizons Research Lab, where you'll analyze relationships between international institutions using the latest technology for ethical problem-solving.
- Geneva-specific emphases: Specialize in Migration and Refugee Studies (exclusive to Geneva), tackling real-world refugee law and advocacy through courses like INTL 3030 Advanced Studies in International Law.
- Seminar-style projects and thesis: Collaborate on group projects in seminars like INTL 4600 International Relations Seminar and capstone with INTL 4700 Senior Thesis (4 hours), honing analytical and presentation skills.
- Study abroad and global engagement: Earn credits via ISTL 2150 Global Exposures for direct immersion in international settings.

This hands-on approach, combined with our global network, sets you up for internships at top organizations in Geneva and beyond—imagine interning at NGOs or UN agencies while still in school. Ready to apply and start making an impact? Check out our full facilities and resources here: [Webster Geneva Facilities](https://geneva.webster.ch/facilities.php). Let's chat about your next steps!

Progression & Future Opportunities

A BA in International Relations from Webster University prepares you for dynamic careers that span government, international organizations, nonprofits, and multinational businesses. Graduates develop strong analytical, communication, and cultural competency skills, positioning them to make meaningful contributions to global affairs: typical roles include International Relations Specialist, Diplomat, Policy Analyst, and Foreign Service Officer.

Future Progression & Opportunities:
• Career Development Support: Webster’s Career Planning & Development Center provides career advising, internship opportunities, resume and interview preparation, and access to job search tools and employer connections to help you transition smoothly from classroom learning to professional work.
• Employment Outlook & Earnings: Graduates with skills in international relations and global affairs often find roles in government, international organizations, and NGOs, with competitive salaries in their respective fields.
• University–Industry Engagement: Through Webster’s global alumni network, study abroad programs, and faculty with professional experience in diplomacy and international affairs, students gain valuable connections and professional references worldwide.
• Accreditation & Long-Term Value: Webster University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Its internationally recognized curriculum in international relations adds credibility and long-term value to your degree.
• Graduation Outcomes: Graduates leave with strong global awareness, research skills, and an understanding of international institutions and policies, ready for roles in government, international organizations, global business, and nonprofit sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA in International Relations, you can continue your studies through a Master’s in International Relations, International Relations and Security Studies, or related fields such as public policy, law, global development, or security studies. Combined BA/MA programs are also an option, allowing you to save time while advancing toward leadership roles and specialized career paths.