International Relations

The International Relations undergraduate program at The American College of Thessaloniki offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare them for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of global politics, economics, history, and cultural studies. Students will examine the complex factors that influence international relations, including security issues, conflict resolution, international law, human rights, environmental challenges, and global governance structures.

Throughout their studies, students engage with a diverse curriculum that combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications. Courses cover topics such as comparative politics, international political economy, security studies, regional studies, foreign policy analysis, and diplomatic practice. The program also encourages students to participate in internships, student exchanges, and research projects, fostering experiential learning and real-world understanding. Critical to the program’s design is an emphasis on intercultural communication, language proficiency, and ethical considerations in international affairs.

The faculty comprises experienced scholars and practitioners from various fields related to international relations, providing students with valuable insights and mentorship. The program aims to cultivate versatile graduates capable of analyzing complex international issues, formulating policy recommendations, and effectively communicating across cultural boundaries. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or enter professional roles in international affairs, making a meaningful contribution to global stability and development. With its strategic location and international outlook, The American College of Thessaloniki provides an ideal environment for immersive learning and global networking, empowering students to become informed and engaged global citizens.

International Relations Requirements

European Studies 210 - Foundations of European Integration

History 201 - Women in Modern Times

History 221 - Global Modernities: History of the Twentieth Century

History 245 - Foreign Policy of the USA (formerly History 342)

Politics 201 - International Relations

Politics 231 - International Law

Politics 232 - International Organizations and Institutions

Politics 249 - The Politics of International Economic Relations

Politics 301 - War and Peace in the Modern World

Politics 350 - Senior Thesis

Politics 351 - Senior Thesis II

Social Science 349 - Contemporary Globalization

English 250 - Advanced Writing and Professional Communication

Social Science 210 - Introduction to Global Studies and Human Geographies

(4 of the following are required)

Economics 232 - International Economics

European Studies 212 - The Political Economy of European Integration

Finance 210 - Money and Banking

History 231 - Modern Greek History

Humanities 221 - History on Film

Humanities 246 - Introduction to American Cultural Studies

Management 218 - International Business

Politics 207 - The Modern Greek Nation-State

Politics 221 - The Balkans in Contemporary International Relations

Politics 229 - The US Federal Government

Social Science 215 - Studies in Media and Contemporary Society

Social Science 228 - Society and Culture: Theory, Texts, and Practices

Social Science 234 - Gender, Cultures and Societies

 (4 of the following are required)

Anthropology 349 - Intercultural Communication in Theory and Practice

European Studies 311 - The Idea of Europe

History 331 - Topics in Twentieth-Century Greek History

Marketing 318 - Global Marketing

Politics 301 - War and Peace in the Modern World

Politics 304 - Women, Power and Politics (formerly Politics 204)

Politics 305 - Women and International Development 

Politics 321 - US Policy in Southeast Europe 

Politics 332 - Human Rights

Politics 333 - Diplomacy and Negotiation

Other Degree Requirements

Economics 101 - Introductory Macroeconomics

Economics 102 - Introductory Microeconomics

Free Elective - Free Elective 

Statistics 205 - Statistics I

An Application Form;
An official high school transcript of grades. If you have not attended an English- or Greek-speaking high school, an official translation into English is required;
An official high school diploma. If you have not attended an English- or Greek-speaking high school, an official translation into English is required;
Official evidence of proficiency in English: TOEFL 100/IELTS: TOEFL iBT 80, or IELTS 6.5. In case that you do not hold a certificate in the English language, a Skype interview will follow with an ACT English instructor;
A recent passport-size color photograph;
A non-refundable application fee of 70.00 Euro (Non-refundable).

The American College of Thessaloniki offers a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, which provides students with a comprehensive understanding of global politics, international organizations, diplomacy, and economic principles. Regarding financing studies for this programme, the college typically offers a range of options to support students financially. These include scholarships, grants, and financial aid packages based on merit and need. The college’s scholarship program is designed to assist both incoming and current students, recognizing academic excellence, leadership qualities, and financial need. Applicants are encouraged to submit detailed application materials, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements, to be considered for merit-based scholarships. Additionally, there are need-based grants available to help students who demonstrate financial hardship, ensuring that capable students can pursue their studies without undue economic burden.

The college also partners with various organizations and has external scholarship opportunities which students can apply for to offset tuition and living costs. Students are advised to consult the college’s financial aid office early in their application process to understand eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines. In addition to scholarships, students may explore external funding sources, including government grants, private foundations, and international organizations that support students studying abroad. Some students may also opt for part-time work opportunities within campus facilities or participate in work-study programs to help finance their education.

Tuition fees for the International Relations programme are typically outlined on the college’s official website and may vary from year to year. Students are advised to prepare financially in advance and explore all available funding options. The college provides detailed guidance on the financial planning process to ensure students are well-informed about the total cost of attendance and available financial resources. Overall, the American College of Thessaloniki prioritizes accessible education and strives to assist students through comprehensive financial support mechanisms, making higher education in International Relations achievable for a diverse student body.

The American College of Thessaloniki offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts in International Relations designed to prepare students for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, public policy, and global affairs. The program provides a multidisciplinary approach, integrating political science, economics, history, regional studies, and cultural analysis to give students a well-rounded understanding of international issues and global governance. Students will explore key topics such as international security, human rights, international law, global economics, and diplomacy. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and effective communication, preparing graduates to analyze complex international developments and participate actively in global discussions.

The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and experiential learning opportunities, including internships and study abroad programs. These activities allow students to gain practical experience and develop professional networks in the field of international relations. Faculty members are experienced academics and practitioners with expertise in various areas of global politics, ensuring that students receive both theoretical and applied knowledge.

Students also have the opportunity to specialize in regional studies, such as Balkan, Middle Eastern, or European affairs, providing them with regional expertise that is highly valued in international careers. The program promotes the development of language skills, with options for studying additional foreign languages, which are essential tools in international diplomacy and international business.

Graduates of the International Relations program are well-equipped for graduate studies or entry-level positions in government agencies, international NGOs, think tanks, and multinational corporations. The American College of Thessaloniki’s strategic location offers unique access to regional political, economic, and cultural dynamics, enriching the educational experience and opening up diverse career pathways. The program emphasizes the importance of multicultural awareness, ethical considerations, and the role of international institutions, aligning with the college’s mission to foster global citizenship and leadership.