Explore how international affairs blends politics, economics and culture to shape global relations - and how students can turn this into a meaningful career.
If you're curious about what's really happening in the world, like why countries go to war, how climate agreements are made or what it takes to run a global nonprofit, international affairs might be the path for you.
It's a major and career path that combines politics, economics, history, culture and even environmental studies to explore how nations and organizations interact across borders.
Whether you're dreaming of working at the United Nations, launching a career in global business or helping solve humanitarian challenges, international affairs gives you the knowledge and tools to make a real impact on the world stage.
At its core, international affairs refers to the study and practice of how countries and other global actors - like non-governmental organizations (NGOs), corporations and international organizations - interact across borders on issues such as diplomacy, trade, security, human rights, environment, migration and global governance.
But international affairs isn't confined to political science. A leading example? The University of Cincinnati's programs (under its School of Public & International Affairs) integrate political science, economics, history, environmental studies, journalism, geography, languages and more. This approach prepares graduates to think flexibly across cultures, time periods and systems.
Studying international affairs isn't just about memorizing world maps or learning how governments work. It's about understanding the big-picture issues that shape our world - and how people, countries and organizations respond to them.
In this major, you'll dive into topics like:
Diplomacy and foreign policy - how countries build relationships and solve problems together
Global trade and economics - who controls what, who benefits, and why it matters
Conflict and peacebuilding - from war zones to peace treaties
Human rights and international law - protecting people across borders
Climate change and global health - solving challenges that affect everyone, everywhere
You'll explore these topics through real-world examples, simulations like Model United Nations, hands-on research and courses that challenge you to think across cultures and disciplines. It's the kind of learning that connects the classroom to what's actually happening in the world today.
One of the best things about majoring in international affairs is how many real-world skills you'll gain. Skills that employers across all kinds of industries are looking for.
Here's what you'll come away with:
Critical thinking - You'll learn how to analyze complex global issues from different angles and come up with thoughtful solutions.
Communication - Whether you're writing a policy brief or giving a presentation, you'll get comfortable explaining big ideas clearly and confidently.
Cultural awareness - You'll build a deeper understanding of different perspectives, languages and traditions, which is key to working on global teams.
Research and analysis - From digging into data to breaking down global trends, you'll learn how to find information and make sense of it.
Real experience - Many international affairs programs include co-ops, internships or study abroad options so you can apply what you learn in real-life settings.
These skills can take you in so many directions. Whether it's government, nonprofits, business or law, gaining skills related to international affairs are so transferable you won't be locked into one path. You'll be ready to adapt and thrive wherever your career takes you.
International affairs isn't just about reading textbooks or writing papers. At schools like the University of Cincinnati, you'll have chances to actually experience what a global career looks like.
Here's how you can put your learning into action:
Model United Nations (MUN): Step into the role of a diplomat and represent a country at international simulations. It's a fun, hands-on way to understand how global decision-making really works.
Co-ops and internships: UC's nationally recognized co-op program lets you work with international organizations, nonprofits, businesses or government offices - sometimes even abroad.
Study abroad and exchange programs: Get out of the classroom and explore different cultures firsthand while earning credit toward your degree.
Accelerated degree options: Programs like UC's 3+3 Law School track let you fast-track your education if you're interested in international law or policy.
These experiences give you more than just a resume boost. They help you build confidence, make connections and figure out what kind of impact you want to make in the world.
Read a real-world example: UC applies interdisciplinary, global approaches to policy-making, foreign relations major
One of the best parts about studying international affairs is how many directions it can take you. Because the field is so broad and interdisciplinary, it opens the door to a wide range of careers, both in the U.S. and around the world.
Here are just a few paths you could take:
Diplomat or foreign service officer: Represent your country and help build international relationships
Policy analyst or researcher: Shape public policy and offer insight on global issues
International development or humanitarian aid worker: Work with nonprofits or NGOs to support communities in need
Global business or trade specialist: Help companies navigate international markets and cultural differences
Law, journalism or education: Use your knowledge to inform, advocate and teach others about global topics
Graduates from programs like UC's go on to work in government, nonprofits, international organizations and even global tech and business. Whether you're passionate about human rights, climate policy or international law, this major gives you the tools and experience to make a real impact.
In a world where everything is connected, no single country can solve these problems alone. That's why understanding international affairs is so important. It gives you the knowledge and real-world skills to be part of the solution, whether you're helping shape policy, working across cultures or leading change on a global scale.
At the University of Cincinnati, programs through the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) are designed to prepare students like you to tackle global challenges with confidence, curiosity and real-world experience.
