斯坦福大学

The program in International Relations is an interdisciplinary undergraduate major allowing students to explore how global, regional and domestic factors influence relations between actors on the world stage. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze choices and challenges that arise in this arena. IR majors pursue study in world politics, including courses in political science, economics, history, and language, focusing on issues such as international security, political economy, economic development, and democratization. Students must spend at least one quarter overseas. The major prepares students for careers in government and the corporate sector, and for admission into graduate programs in law, business, economics, and political science.

Learning Outcomes (Undergraduate)

The program expects its undergraduate majors to be able to demonstrate the following learning outcomes. These learning outcomes are used in evaluating students and the Program in International Relations. Students are expected to demonstrate:

1. understanding of core knowledge necessary to understand contemporary world politics.
2. ability to analyze international issues and draw correct inferences using qualitative and/or quantitative analysis.
3. ability to write clearly and persuasively, communicating ideas clearly.
4. ability to evaluate theory and critique research within the discipline.

The International Relations (IR) major is designed to provide students with an interdisciplinary education of both foundational skills and specific knowledge necessary to analyze contemporary international relations.

Degree Requirements

Students interested in majoring in International Relations are encouraged to declare during their sophomore year, but no later than the beginning of their junior year to ensure timely completion of the program. They are urged to discuss their plans with the undergraduate student services officer as early as possible, and to take recommended preparatory courses for the major in their freshman and sophomore years. To declare the major, students must fill out the Declaration of Major in Axess; choose a faculty advisor; and submit completed and acceptable program proposal forms to the Director of the Program in International Relations (IR). It is recommended that students meet with their faculty advisor at least once per academic year to discuss progress towards degree completion. Quarterly meetings are highly encouraged.

The ten specializations are:

1. Africa
2. Comparative International Governance
3. East and South Asia
4. Economic Development/World Economy
5. Europe (East and West) & Russia
6. International History and Culture
7. International Security
8. Latin America and Iberian Studies
9. Middle East and Central Asia
10. Social Development/Human Well-Being