The International Relations Major

Students who major in international relations plan an individual program with a focus on a particular issue, such as international political economy, foreign policy analysis, diplomatic history, Third World development, international law and organization, or arms control and strategic studies.

Courses are chosen in consultation with one or more members of the faculty committee, one of whom will be the student’s academic advisor. A major’s program can include courses taken at one of the other Five Colleges or in other departments at Mount Holyoke if they are pertinent to the focus of her major. For example, a student concentrating on global environmental problems could count courses offered by the geology or biological sciences departments. Or, a student focusing on ethical issues in international relations could use certain courses in the religion or philosophy departments to satisfy her requirements in the major.

Questions about the appropriateness of particular courses should be directed to the student’s advisor or the program chair.

The major requires a minimum of 40 credits and proficiency in a foreign language. For details, see the International Relations chapter of the catalogue.

The International Relations Minor

The minor in international relations is the Five College Certificate in International Relations. See the Five College Consortium chapter of the catalogue for specific information.