collageInternational relations is a field that deals with the relationships between large entities such as states, nations, multinational corporations and nongovernmental organizations. However, there tends to be a greater focus on big ideas such as terrorism and human rights.
International Relations is a highly developed field of knowledge, sometimes referred to as International Studies. With a Master in International Relations, students will explore the study that researches relationships between countries, on the whole and in much detail, involving roles of states, governmental and non-governmental organizations, academic and public policy fields, economics, international law, cultural studies and much more, becoming thus an interdisciplinary field of study.
Although International Relations is a relatively young discipline, dating back to the 17th century, it is a very developed one, partly thanks to the extremely intensive situation shaping out in the modern world. With a Master in International Relations, you can be a professional addressing a number of important issues such as human rights, dealing with organized crime, globalization, nuclear proliferation, economic development and many others. Graduates with a Master in International Relations degree can go on to careers in government branches, diplomacy, non-governmental organizations, as well as private companies and corporations.
Once you have realized that you are not indifferent to the fate of the planet and that you have the right talents and capabilities, don’t hesitate to check out some of the Master in International Relations programs on this page to find the one that suits you best.
What is an International Relations Degree?
At the graduate level, an International Relations degree program might explore all the nuances of social justice, global economics, politics and foreign policy. International Relations is an academic discipline that zeros in on all types of interactions between actors at the global level. Topics of study may include diplomacy, international security, environmental policy, trade, and financial regulation.
An international relations (IR) degree may be pursued at three levels – Masters, Doctoral, and Graduate Certificates. Within each of these levels, there may be a large degree of variation. First, graduate schools may refer to their IR degree programs by other names. International Politics, Global Affairs and International Affairs graduate programs are examples. Often, too, an international relations major may be paired with a related field or area of emphasis. These could span peace studies, governance, politics, business, law, conflict resolution, or development.
Because of this range, students might look for a degree in international relations that mirrors several key factors.
- Research interests
- Educational level
- Professional goals
Popular Schools with International Relations Degrees in Canada
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International Relations scholars ask questions such as: How do states manage their coexistence? What factors impact human migration? Can multinational corporations undermine political stability?
International Relations studies cross-border interactions between various groups to understand how such interactions affect people, states, regions, and the global community. This program will give you a solid foundation in the economic, political, and socio-historical interactions between nations. During the course of your studies, you’ll gain statistical analysis skills, research capabilities, written and verbal communication skills, and competence in a second language (other than English).
Career opportunities
As an International Relations graduate, you’ll be prepared for career opportunities in areas such as the civil service, the non-profit sector, and the business world. A degree in International Relations can also be used as a stepping-stone to graduate studies or another professional degree such as law, medicine, veterinary medicine, or education.
Program highlights
Co-operative work placement – Gain valuable full-time paid work experience that alternates with your academic studies.
Study abroad opportunities – Cultural and academic experiences at destinations around the world.
Courses in this program
A Multidisciplinary Survey of International Relations, Gateway to Geography, Principles of Microeconomics, The Contemporary World, Introduction to Social and Cultural Anthropology
Detailed course information
First year Degree Guide – Arts
Program Description (Course Calendar)
List of Courses in the Program
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A member of the Canadian Polar Commission and authority on Canadian security and Arctic issues, senior research fellow, Robert Huebert, has been involved in many aspects of the changing Arctic. Connected to a wide network of academics, media, bureaucrats, and military personnel, he ensures student exposure to all aspects of the international system. “In an increasingly globalized international community, the need for those who understand the international system will continue to grow. Our dynamic program facilitates understanding. ”
Admission requirementsI am currently a(n):High school student or graduateUniversity transfer student or graduateAdult/mature student
A leader in its field, the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs (NPSIA) has an international reputation for providing the interdisciplinary training necessary to understand international issues and policy in a complex global environment. Our expertise includes: conflict resolution and security, terrorism and intelligence, international trade and finance, international governance and development. NPSIA is the only Canadian full member of the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs, which is committed to preparing students for the global workplace of the 21st century.
A collaborative specialization in African Studies and Latin American and Caribbean Studies are also available.
Capital Advantage
In international affairs, capital cities are where the action is. NPSIA’s location in Ottawa gives the School a direct window on Canada’s role in international affairs, while allowing us to engage with the international policy community. Students benefit from having direct access to officials from government departments, business and non-governmental organizations based in Canada’s capital city. Career opportunities are just down the road, and are facilitated by our extensive internship and co-operative education programs.
Fields of Specialization
- International Economic Policy
- Conflict Analysis and Conflict Resolution
- Intelligence in International Affairs
- Security Defence Policy
- International Organizations and Global Public Policy
- International Development Policy
- Project Management for Development and Humanitarian Assistance
Faculty Research Highlights
- Canadian foreign policy
- Fragile States, conflict and development
- International development policy and foreign aid
- International economic policy and trade negotiations
- Security and intelligence studies
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