Top 6 benefits of studying international relations
If you’ve found yourself wondering ‘What can you do with an international relations degree?’ We have the answers for you.
What is international relations?
Before you can decide if you want to study international relations, you must understand what it is and the role it plays in our everyday lives. International relations help us understand how countries, governments, international organisations and global systems interact. It explores issues like diplomacy, conflict, trade, human rights and climate change to help us better understand how the world works on a political and economic level.
Why study international relations?
Now that you understand what international relations is, it’s time to ask the most important question ‘Why study international relations?’. The biggest reason (and let’s be honest, the one you should care about most) is how it can have a positive impact across the globe. International relations help build better relationships between countries and governments, making a better and safer world for everyone.
The importance of international relations lies in its ability to help us make sense of complex global challenges and prepare us to solve them.
Benefits of studying international relations
International relations is a versatile subject with a skillset that can be applied to many different roles. There are many benefits of studying international relations, including:
1. Comprehensive understanding of global issues
One of the biggest benefits of studying international relations is the ability to deeply analyse global challenges from multiple perspectives. You will explore complex issues like international security, conflict resolution, climate change, trade agreements and economic changes. You will also develop a deep understanding of how political, economic and cultural factors play a role in shaping our world and the ways in which these can be leveraged to make the world a better place for all.
2. Career versatility
A degree in international relations will allow you to develop a wide skillset that can be applied to a wide variety of job roles. Skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and communication are crucial in all areas of international relations. Some of the careers you can pursue include:
- Diplomat or foreign service officer
- Policy advisor or political analyst
- Journalist or international correspondent
- Non-government organisation (NGO) or humanitarian aid worker
- International business consultant
3. Enhanced cross-cultural communication
In our globalised world, the ability to communicate effectively across cultures is essential. Studying international relations helps you build cultural sensitivity and understanding. Through group projects, discussions and case studies, you’ll learn how to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. These perspectives may even change how you think and feel about different situations.
This skill is not only crucial for careers in diplomacy or global business, but also incredibly valuable in everyday life.
4. Opportunities for global networking
Another top benefit of studying international relations is the opportunities the subject gives you to do some major global networking. Through exciting work placements, some of which could be in other countries, you can build a professional network and get valuable advice from those you are studying and working with.
5. Leadership and analytical skills
If you’re still wondering ‘Why study international relations?’, would developing your leadership skills persuade you? Becoming a confident leader will have a huge effect on your future career. By showing that you are able to lead a team efficiently and make important decisions, you will prove yourself to be a valuable employee.
During your studies, you will also develop analytical skills, which are crucial when working in international relations. Your ability to assess complex issues and propose effective solutions will make you a standout candidate to future employers and will ensure you are having a positive impact on the world – which is at the heart of international relations.
6. Personal growth and global citizenship
Personal growth may not be the first thing you think of when listing the benefits of studying international relations, but it is one of the biggest outcomes. By studying international relations, you will gain a deeper understanding of how the world works and the backgrounds and perspectives of many different people. These contribute majorly to your personal growth and help you become a more global citizen.
Study international relations at Royal Holloway, University of London
If learning about the benefits of studying international relations has made you excited to pursue a degree in it, Royal Holloway, University of London, is a fantastic place to begin your international relations journey.
Ranked in the UK’s top 25% for research (THE, REF, Overall ranking of institutions, 2022), Royal Holloway offers high-quality teaching, a supportive international community and strong links to global employers. Located 40 minutes by train from central London, it gives you access to one of the world’s most influential cities for politics, business and international affairs.
As an international student, you can begin your studies at the Royal Holloway International Study Centre. Here you will find preparatory pathway programmes expertly designed to help you succeed at the University.
If you would benefit from additional academic and English language support before beginning your international relations undergraduate degree, there are two options to choose from the International Foundation Year in Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities and the International Foundation Year in Management and Economics. Both programmes are two semesters long and by achieving the required grades on completion you can progress to the first year of your chosen undergraduate degree at Royal Holloway, University of London.
If you already have an undergraduate degree but would benefit from extra support before starting your Masters, the Pre-Masters Programme in Arts, Humanities, Economics and Sciences is the perfect choice. The two-semester programme builds on your existing subject knowledge while also boosting your English language and academic skills. Completing the programme and achieving the required grades allows you to progress to your chosen postgraduate degree at Royal Holloway, University of London.
Find out the entry requirements, fees and visa information for your chosen pathway programme at the Royal Holloway International Study Centre.
FAQs
Why is the study of international relations important?
The importance of international relations comes from gaining a better understanding of global issues such as diplomacy, security, and trade, and equips individuals to address challenges like climate change, human rights, and international conflicts effectively.
What is the scope of studying international relations?
The scope includes careers in diplomacy, international law, journalism, global business and NGOs, as well as opportunities in policymaking, academia, and international organisations like the UN or World Bank.
Is international relations a good career?
Yes, international relations offers a rewarding career with opportunities to influence global policies, work in diverse fields, and contribute meaningfully to addressing critical global challenges.