Are you looking for a career with an international focus? An international relations degree can open the door to exciting world affairs, foreign policy, and global economic opportunities.
An international relations degree will help you improve your analytical, decision-making, and interpersonal skills. As a result, you develop an in-depth knowledge of society, people, globalization, and multinational markets. There is a high demand for these skills among private and public employers.
So, what are the career options for international relations graduates?
1. International Law
Law is a popular career choice for many international relations graduates. And with your knowledge of the laws and regulations of different countries and international organizations, you can specialize in international law.
International lawyers serve their clients by counseling, researching, and analyzing legal matters internationally. They also ensure their clients are compliant and current with international regulations.
One critical quality you must possess as an international attorney is communicating effectively. Take attorney Amir Handjiani, for instance; his consistent eloquence has helped maintain a high-profile career.
2. Journalist
Consider a job in the media if you like to write and report about the world around you. With your international relations degree, you will develop solid research and communication skills essential in journalism.
Journalists are responsible for writing articles, conducting interviews, conducting field reporting, and photographing events. They also write and edit news stories and feature articles for print and electronic media.
Journalists often work for print and electronic media. But you can also find work in government media agencies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
3. Policy Consultant
Policy consultants are responsible for helping politicians and government officials manage their public image and reputation. They also craft policies for those they represent that reflect their values and the values of their constituents.
Policy consultants must be knowledgeable in all aspects of public policy, including economic, social, environmental, and other issues relevant to their client’s interests.
They also help create strategies for managing public opinion through campaigns and media outreach efforts.
To do this job well, policy consultants must have strong communication skills and an understanding of national and international current events.
4. Economic Analyst
An Economic Analyst analyzes economic data, trends, and forecasts to predict how different economies will develop. It requires international relations knowledge and analytical skills to succeed in this role.
To succeed, you’ll need to have a strong interest in global economics, macroeconomics, and financial markets, so it’s a vital role if those topics excite you!
You’ll also need to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in these fields so that your forecasts are always accurate.
With all these requirements met, you can be sure that an Economic Analyst position will provide an exciting challenge for any international relations graduate.
5. Nonprofit Program Coordinator
An international relations degree isn’t limited to only government jobs and politics; graduates of this program have other options, like working for a nonprofit organization.
Nonprofit organizations provide help and services to people and communities in need. They play an essential role in improving the quality of life for communities worldwide.
For example, a nonprofit like World Vision provides food, education, health care, clean water, and other necessities to people worldwide.
Nonprofits need people to help organize their programs and manage operations.
If you have an interest in helping improve the lives of others, consider a job as Program Coordinator for a nonprofit organization.
You can leverage your understanding of global affairs to make a difference in the lives of others through a nonprofit career.
6. Diplomatic Agent
Diplomatic agents represent their country abroad and interact with foreign governments to promote national interests. This can include negotiating trade agreements, representing embassies, and managing cultural exchange programs between countries.
A career as a diplomatic agent can be gratifying; you get to travel around the world while also impacting global politics and diplomacy.
To pursue this path, candidates must have extensive knowledge of international affairs, excellent communication skills, and cross-cultural awareness.
Also, proficiency in foreign languages is highly beneficial when working in different countries.
7. International Policy Analyst
One of the most rewarding career options for graduates of international relations programs is that of an International Policy Analyst. The job title offers a snapshot of the type of work these professionals can expect.
Essentially, they analyze global political events and provide insight into how they might affect national security, foreign policy, and trade agreements.
In this position, you may be asked to research topics such as global economic development, human rights abuses, and even defense systems deployment by a variety of nations.
Government officials and other stakeholders with vested interests in understanding global trends will likely use your analysis.
Takeaway
There are more jobs available for international relations graduates. However, we have covered seven of the most direct career paths to consider for graduates of this program.
Now you are equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your future!
