International Relations

The Bachelor of Arts in International Relations at Webster University offers students a comprehensive and engaging exploration of global politics, diplomacy, international organizations, and cross-cultural communication. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in foreign service, international non-governmental organizations, international business, policy analysis, and other fields that require a nuanced understanding of how nations interact and cooperate on the world stage. Throughout the curriculum, students will examine key issues such as security, human rights, economic development, environmental challenges, and global governance, gaining insights into the complex factors that shape international affairs.

The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication, encouraging students to develop a sophisticated understanding of geopolitical dynamics and multicultural perspectives. Courses range from introductory classes in international relations theory and international law to advanced topics like global conflict, international political economy, and regional studies of Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Students will also have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, study abroad programs, and research projects, which enable them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

Webster University’s small class sizes and personalized instruction provide a supportive environment for academic growth and professional development. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and responsible global citizenship, preparing graduates to navigate and influence the interconnected world responsibly. With a diverse faculty who are experts in their fields, students gain a well-rounded education that combines academic rigor with practical skills. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue advanced degrees in international relations, law, or public policy, or to embark on careers in government agencies, international organizations, diplomatic missions, and multinational corporations. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in International Relations at Webster University equips students with the knowledge, skills, and global perspective necessary to succeed in the dynamic and evolving field of international affairs.

Program Curriculum

The 36 credit hours required for the master of arts (MA) degree in international relations must include the following courses:

• INTL 5000 Introduction to International Relations (3 hours)
• INTL 5100 Research Methods and Perspectives (3 hours)
• INTL 6000 Capstone in International Relations (3 hours)
  or INTL 6250* Thesis (6 hours) and INTL 6900 University Thesis Requirement (0 hours)
• Two courses from the Comparative Politics Cluster (6 hours)
• Four courses from the International Politics Cluster (12 hours)
• Additional graduate elective credit hours (9 hours)

* Students taking INTL 6250 Thesis (6 hours) must also register for INTL 6900 University Thesis Requirements (0 hours). INTL 6900 acknowledges successful completion of all thesis requirements including conforming to university and departmental guideline as well as depositing the thesis in the University library.

* Students completing their degree at either the Vienna or Geneva campuses are required to complete INTL 6250 Thesis to meet this requirement.

The 57 credit hours required for the master of business administration (MBA) with an emphasis in international relations must include the following courses:

• INTL 5000 Introduction to International Relations (3 hours)
• INTL 5100 Research Methods and Perspectives (3 hours)
• Two courses from the Comparative Politics Cluster (6 hours)
• Four courses from the International Politics Cluster (12 hours)
• INTL 6000 Capstone in International Relations (3 hours)

Comparative Politics Cluster (2 courses)

• INTL 5050 Comparative Politics (3 hours)
• INTL 5580 Politics of Development (3 hours)
• INTL 5570 Comparative Foreign Policy (3 hours)
• INTL 5600 Area Studies (3 hours)
• INTL 5605 Topics in Comparative Politics (3 hours)
• INTL 5625 Middle East Area Studies (3 hours)
• INTL 5635 Western European Area Studies (3 hours)
• INTL 5645 Asian Area Studies (3 hours)
• INTL 5655 African Area Studies (3 hours)
• INTL 5665 South and Central Asian Area Studies (3 hours)
• INTL 5675 Central and Eastern European Area Studies (3 hours)
• INTL 5685 Latin American Area Studies (3 hours)

International Politics Cluster (4 courses)

• INGO 5000 Introduction to International Nongovernmental Organizations (3 hours)
• INTL 5400 International Political Economy (3 hours)
• INTL 5510 Theories of International Relations (3 hours)
• INTL 5530 International Law (3 hours)
• INTL 5535 International Disaster Response Law (3 hours)
• INTL 5540 International Organizations (3 hours)
• INTL 5550 War and Diplomacy (3 hours)
• INTL 5560 U.S. Foreign Policy (3 hours)
• INTL 5585 Food and Water Security (3 hours)
• INTL 5590 International Security (3 hours)
• INTL 5595 Energy Security (3 hours)
• INTL 5700 Humanitarian Issues in International Politics (3 hours)
• INTL 5800 Globalization (3 hours)
• INTL 5860 Issues in International Politics (3 hours)
• INTL 5870 International Law and Politics of Outer Space (3 hours)
• INTL 5890 Terrorism in World Politics (3 hours)

International Relations Elective Courses (3 courses)

Any additional courses from the two clusters above, or any of the following:

• INTL 5300 Field Work (3-6 hours)
• INTL 5500 Professional Seminars (1-3 hours)
• INTL 5610 Non-Thesis Readings/Research (3 hours)
• INTL 5900 Advanced Research Methods* (3 hours)
• INTL 6500 Internship (3 hours) 
• Any other graduate elective course (3 hours)

Not all of the courses listed above will be available to students at all locations.

If the requisite course is waived, the student must choose an elective course from this major.

* Advanced Research Methods may be substituted for a course in the Comparative cluster or in the International cluster.

The required courses and electives listed in this core may be taken as directed studies, subject to the conditions stated in the Directed Studies section under Academic Policies and Procedures.

Dual Major INTL/INGO

51 credit hours

The dual major in international relations and international nongovernmental organizations is designed for the student who wishes to seek a single Master of Arts degree with two majors: international relations and international nongovernmental relations. Unlike a sequential or dual degree, the student earns a single master's degree but with two concentrations. It is therefore more credit hours than a single-concentration Masters (36 credit hours) but still fewer than a sequential degree (60 or 63 credit hours).

This program is offered at the Geneva campus.

Required Courses:

• INTL 5000 Introduction to International Relations (3 hours)
• INGO 5000 Introduction to INGO (3 hours)
• INTL 5100 or INGO 5200 Methods (3 hours)
• INTL 6000 or INGO 6000 Capstone (3 hours) 
  or INTL 6250* Thesis (6 hours) and INTL 6900 University Thesis Requirements (0 hours)  
  or INGO 6250* Thesis (6 hours) and INGO 6900 University Thesis Requirement (0 hours)
• INTL 5540 International Organizations (3 hours)
• INGO 5600 Principles of Negotiations (3 hours)
• INGO 5700 Grant Writing, Fundraising, and Development for INGOs (3 hours)
• INGO 5900 Project Management for INGOs (3 hours)

* Students taking INTL or INGO 6250 Thesis (6 hours) must also register for INTL or INGO 6900 University Thesis Requirements (0 hours). INTL or INGO 6900 acknowledges successful completion of all thesis requirements including conforming to university and departmental guidelines as well as depositing the thesis in the University library.

Elective Courses:

• Skills Cluster from INGO (9 hours)
• Comparative Cluster from INTL (6 hours)
• International Politics Cluster from INTL (12 hours)

Application Requirements

• Signed Application Form
• Proof of English Proficiency:

– TOEFL: PBT 550 | iBT 80
– IELTS: 6.5
– Pearson: 53

• Undergraduate Transcripts
• Essay: 300-500 word essay on a topic of your choice OR Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• One Letter of Recommendation
• Certificate of Finance showing $Tuition plus $16,000
• Copy of Passport ID Page
• Official University/College Transcripts (for Transfer Students)
• Some programs have additional entry requirements. Please contact your advisor for more information.

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

tuition_fee: "The exact tuition fee for the International Relations program at Webster University varies depending on the campus, level of study, and residency status. Typically, the undergraduate tuition rates range from approximately $1,200 to $1,700 per credit hour. For full-time undergraduate students, this translates to roughly $45,000 to $55,000 per academic year. Graduate program fees are generally higher, averaging around $1,400 to $1,800 per credit hour. International students should consider additional costs such as application fees, student insurance, and mandatory fees imposed by the university or campus. Webster University offers diverse financial aid options to support students in funding their studies, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and institutional aid. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria, with some scholarships automatically renewing each year for eligible students. Need-based aid assesses the financial situation of applicants and may include grants or work-study opportunities. The university also provides information about external scholarships, fellowships, and loan programs compatible with international students. Payment plans are available to help students manage the cost of tuition by spreading payments over several installments during the semester or academic year. Additionally, Webster University maintains partnerships with organizations, corporations, and government agencies that sometimes offer sponsorships or tuition reimbursement programs to eligible students. Students are strongly encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the university’s financial aid application process early to maximize their chances of receiving aid. International students should also explore options for private loans or sponsorships from their home countries. Webster University’s financial services and admissions offices provide personalized counseling to assist students in understanding the full scope of costs and available funding sources. Overall, financing a degree in International Relations at Webster University involves a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, grants, loans, and employment opportunities, aiming to make the program accessible and affordable for diverse student populations."

The Bachelor of Arts in International Relations at Webster University offers students a comprehensive understanding of global affairs, diplomacy, international economics, and political systems. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in government, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, diplomacy, and global business. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, cultural awareness, and analytical skills, providing a well-rounded education in international issues. Students have opportunities to study abroad at Webster’s global campuses, gaining firsthand experience of different cultures and international institutions. The program integrates coursework in political science, history, economics, and foreign languages, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to understanding international relations. Faculty members are experienced professionals with backgrounds in diplomacy, international law, and global policy, offering mentorship and practical insights. Webster University’s global network allows students to build international contacts and engage in internships and research projects worldwide. Graduates of the program often pursue further education or enter the workforce equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex global environments. The program emphasizes not only theoretical foundations but also practical skills such as negotiation, policy analysis, and cross-cultural communication. This prepares students to analyze international conflicts, understand diplomatic strategies, and contribute effectively to international development initiatives. Websters’s commitment to diversity and global citizenship ensures that students graduate with a broad perspective and cultural sensitivity. The program is accredited and aligned with international standards, ensuring a high-quality education. With a flexible online and on-campus delivery mode, students can tailor their educational experience to their personal and professional goals. Overall, Webster University’s Bachelor of Arts in International Relations is committed to developing global citizens who are equipped to address contemporary international challenges through informed analysis and collaborative solutions.