International Relations

The International Relations program at Tufts University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of global affairs, diplomacy, security, economics, and international institutions. Designed for those interested in analyzing the complex interactions among nations, organizations, and cultures, this program provides a solid foundation in political science, history, economics, and international law, equipping students with the analytical skills necessary to navigate and address the pressing challenges of our interconnected world.

Students in the program have access to a diverse range of courses that explore topics such as international conflict and cooperation, global governance, human rights, environmental issues, and economic development. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research methodologies, and real-world applications, preparing graduates for careers in diplomacy, policy analysis, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, students are encouraged to participate in internships, study abroad programs, and research projects that deepen their understanding of international systems and cultural perspectives.

The program also features a distinguished faculty composed of leading scholars and practitioners who bring extensive expertise and practical experience into the classroom. Through seminars, workshops, and conferences, students engage with current issues and policy debates, fostering a nuanced understanding of the complexities of international relations. Additionally, the program’s interdisciplinary approach enables students to integrate knowledge from various fields, enhancing their ability to develop innovative solutions to global problems.

Tufts University’s location in the Boston area provides students with access to a vibrant hub of political, nonprofit, and governmental organizations, offering numerous opportunities for internships and networking. The program’s commitment to diversity and inclusion promotes a global perspective, encouraging students to appreciate different cultures and viewpoints. Graduates of the International Relations program leave well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or to enter the workforce with a strong analytical toolkit, a broad understanding of international issues, and a commitment to contributing positively to global society.

The IR major requires the completion of 12 courses in the IR curriculum (Core and Thematic Concentration) plus completion of the IR language requirement and a capstone requirement.

Students should immediately begin using an IR Major Checklist, to better understand the requirements and to track their progress. This form should be updated before each registration period and used in consultation with your advisor.

I. Core Requirements
The Core Requirements constitute the foundation of knowledge that is needed by all majors in International Relations, regardless of thematic concentration. They are comprised of broad introductory courses that cover the major themes and debates within each discipline on the study of international affairs.

1. Introduction to Politics of International Relations (PS 61)
2. Principles of Economics (EC 5)
3. International Economics (one course from approved list)
4. The Historical Dimension (one course from approved list)
5. Theories of Society and Culture (one course from approved list)

II. Thematic Concentration Requirement
Thematic Concentrations are designed to provide students with substantial, in-depth, and focused study of an aspect of international relations. Students will choose one concentration and take 7 courses from that concentration.

1. Regional and Comparative Analysis (choose one sub-concentration)
   a. Europe and the Former Soviet Union
   b. East and Southeast Asia
   c. Africa
   d. Middle East and South Asia
   e. Latin America

2. International Economics (choose one sub-concentration)
   a. International Trade
   b. International Finance
   c. International Environmental Economics
   d. International Development Economics

3. Global Health, Nutrition and the Environment

4. International Security

5. Globalizations
   (Note: The OLD TC5 The United States in World Affairs is available to Class Years 2017-2019 ONLY.)

6. Identity
   (Note: The OLD TC6A Ideologies and TC6B Empires/Colonialism/Globalization are available to Class Years 2017-2019 ONLY.)

III. Research Methods Requirement
IR students will choose one thematic concentration and take 7 courses from that concentration. One of the 7 courses must be a research methods course. View an approved list of research methods courses for Thematic Concentrations 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6.  Note: TC3 students are required to take a Quantitative Reasoning course, which has a separate course listing. 

IV. Language Requirement
Majors in International Relations must display oral and written proficiency in a foreign language. Thorough language study is an essential tool for developing the cultural literacy and sensitivity, which are important goals of the major. Proficiency is met by 8 semesters of instruction or the equivalent in a single language. Students may place into courses above level one and thereby complete the requirement in fewer than 8 Tufts semesters.

1. Completed Common Application or Coalition Application
2. Completed Tufts Writing Supplement 
3. High School Transcript(s)
4. Senior Grades: All applicants will be required to send their senior grades as part of their application. Students applying Early Decision I should send first quarter or trimester grades no later than the last week in November. Students applying Early Decision II should plan for their first semester or trimester grades to arrive no later than the third week in January. Finally, Regular Decision applicants should submit their first semester or trimester grades by the middle of February. Students studying abroad (where predicted grades are common) should send those if senior grades are not available.
5. Testing:
   • For applicants to the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering or the Combined Degree Programs with the SMFA at Tufts or the NEC: SAT with two subject tests or ACT. See the standardized test requirements for information about these tests and recommendations regarding which subject tests to take.
   • For applicants to the SMFA at Tufts' BFA program: SAT or ACT. Subject tests are not required for BFA candidates applying to the SMFA at Tufts.
6. TOEFL Scores: Required only for students for whom English is not the first language or who attend a school where English is not the language of instruction.
7. Letters of Recommendation: Tufts requires one letter from a teacher in a junior or senior year major academic course (math, natural science, social science, English, or a foreign language) and one letter from a guidance counselor for all applicants. Candidates for the SMFA at Tufts' BFA or Combined Degree programs are required to submit a letter from their art teacher as well. An additional letter from all other applicants, though not encouraged, may be submitted if the student feels it can add new perspective to his or her application.
8. Extracurricular Activities: In addition to evaluating an academic fit, the admissions committee looks for ways a student may contribute to the community as a whole. They will assess the level and type of involvement in each activity and may ask questions such as: Has the student been a significant contributor or leader? How has the involvement contributed to the school or larger community? Does the student have a special talent in a particular area? We do not expect all students to be team captains, class presidents, or editors-in-chief; rather, we look for meaningful involvement in their school and/or community. The Common Application allows students to list up to ten different activities, but you don't need to fill every space. Some of the most successful applicants are heavily engaged in just a few activities. Keep in mind that the Common Application is your one chance to show your extracurricular engagements: we are not able to accept a supplemental resume of activities.
9. Art Portfolio: Required only for students applying to the Combined Degree BFA/BA or BFA/BS and BFA applicants to the SMFA at Tufts. Submit a 15-20-piece portfolio of recent work, which represents your strengths and interests, via SlideRoom.
10. $75 Application Fee or Fee Waiver - You may have the application fee waived by submitting either i) a written request from your college counselor or school official who can attest that the fee would represent a financial hardship, or ii) a College Board Request for Waiver of the Application Fee form. You may consider the waiver approved unless a member of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions notifies you otherwise. Without an application fee, or an approved fee waiver, we cannot continue to process your application to Tufts University.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Tufts University offers a variety of funding options for students enrolled in its International Relations program. Financial aid is available through federal and private student loans, scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships. Undergraduate students can apply for need-based financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile, which help determine eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs. Tufts University also provides institutional scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership skills, and diverse backgrounds, which do not require repayment. Graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in International Relations have access to departmental fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships that offer stipends and tuition remission. These assistantships often involve teaching or research responsibilities aligned with the student’s academic interests and can significantly reduce the overall cost of education. External funding sources, such as government-sponsored scholarships and international organizations, are also encouraged and can be utilized to fund studies. Additionally, students are advised to seek private scholarships and grants available through various foundations and NGOs dedicated to supporting students in the field of International Relations. Tufts' Office of Financial Aid provides comprehensive counseling services to help students identify and apply for suitable funding opportunities. It is recommended that prospective and current students regularly check the university’s official website and contact the financial aid office to stay updated on available scholarships, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Overall, Tufts University is committed to making education accessible and affordable, ensuring students have multiple avenues to finance their studies in International Relations.

The International Relations program at Tufts University offers students a comprehensive education in the complex dynamics of global affairs, emphasizing interdisciplinary understanding and critical analysis. The program combines coursework in political science, economics, history, and international law to develop a nuanced perspective on international issues. Students have the opportunity to engage with topics such as diplomacy, security studies, development, human rights, and environmental policy. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, policy analysis, and non-governmental organizations, among others.

Tufts' location near Boston provides students access to a vibrant community of scholars, policymakers, and NGOs, facilitating internships and practical experiences. The program encourages language acquisition, global travel, and research projects to deepen students’ understanding of different cultural and political contexts. Faculty members are leading experts in their fields, offering mentorship and research opportunities that foster academic growth and professional development. The program also emphasizes experiential learning, including simulation exercises, fieldwork, and participation in conferences.

Students may pursue an undergraduate major in International Relations, often combined with minors or concentrations in areas such as Peace and Justice, Humanitarian Affairs, or Regional Studies. The university's strong commitment to diversity and inclusion fosters an educational environment where varied perspectives are valued and integrated into the learning process. The program's alumni have gone on to influential roles in government, international agencies, and academia. Overall, Tufts' International Relations program aims to produce informed, engaged global citizens capable of addressing the pressing international challenges of our time.