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What is international relations?

International Relations focusses on the study of a nation's policy with respect to the competitive world and maintaining international peace. Specialising in international relations would give you a chance to rub shoulders with the creme de la creme from different countries and even work with them to resolve humanitarian, health, or political crises across the world.

What are the career prospects?

Diplomat: One of the most coveted positions in the field of International Relations in India is the Indian Foreign Service (IFS). Officers in this service represent India in various international organisations. Candidates are selected through a highly rigorous screening process - the Union Public Service Commission's civil services examination conducted every year.

Intelligence specialist: Working as an intelligence specialist is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. You will be responsible for collecting data and information - possibly even covertly -from foreign countries for a mission while working with the Army, the Navy or any other government agency. Sounds like a job for a secret agent? Well, our lips are sealed!

 

Political analyst: If you like talking politics, especially global affairs, then you might be interested in working as a political analyst. Advising political leaders on foreign policies, identifying important issues and framing foreign policy

Non-profit: Non-profit organisations such as the Red Cross also hire international relations and communication specialists.

Where to study

Some of the leading universities in India and abroad offer courses in international relations. Most institutes require a graduation in Political Science to qualify:

India:

• Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi: Masters in Political Science with majors in International Relations


• Jadavpur University, Kolkata: Master of Arts (MA) in Political Science and International Relations


• Christ University, Bengaluru: M.A. in International Relations

Abroad:

• Stanford University, California: Masters in International Relations


• Columbia University, New York: Masters of International Affairs


• London School of Economics: Bachelor of Science (BSc) in International Relations and History and Master of Science (M.Sc) in International Relations (research)


• Harvard University, Cambridge: Graduation in International Relations

Required skills

• Good communication skills


• Expertise in global affairs and in-depth knowledge of your country's politics, culture and economy.


• Ability to come up with diplomatic solutions that will foster foreign ties.


• Ability to adapt to different environments and cultures is equally essential.

 

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