If you’re considering an International Relations degree, chances are you’re at a point where you’re comparing different universities, educational models, and degree programs while trying to figure out which path fits your future best.
Maybe you’re drawn to global politics, diplomacy, international business, or the idea of working across cultures.
Or maybe you simply know you want an international path, but you’re still figuring out what that actually looks like.
And that’s completely normal.
Because choosing where and how to study International Relations is not just about picking a university. It’s about choosing the environment that will shape your global perspective, your network, and the opportunities you’ll have access to later on.
This is especially true in a field where context matters so much.
What Do You Study in an International Relations Degree?
An International Relations degree combines multiple disciplines to help students understand how the world works politically, economically, socially, and culturally.
Depending on the university and academic system, courses may include:
– Global politics and international organizations.
– Diplomacy and foreign policy.
– International law.
– Economics and global markets.
– Security and conflict studies.
– Intercultural communication.
– Geopolitics and contemporary history.
But the most important aspect is not the list of subjects.
It’s the mindset the degree develops.
International Relations teaches students to analyze complex global issues, understand different perspectives, and navigate environments where politics, business, culture, and communication constantly intersect.
And in many modern international studies programs, especially those inspired by the American educational model, students are encouraged to debate, participate, and apply ideas—not just memorize theory.
This is because understanding the world requires more than information.
It requires perspective.
Is an International Relations Degree Worth It, and Is It Right for You?
This is one of the most common questions students ask before choosing this path.
And the honest answer is: it depends on what you’re looking for.
An International Relations degree is usually a strong fit for students who:
– Are curious about global issues and current affairs.
– Enjoy critical thinking and discussion.
– Feel comfortable working across cultures.
– Are interested in politics, diplomacy, communication, or international business.
– Want a career with an international dimension.
At the same time, it’s important to understand that this degree does not lead to just one specific job title.
Instead, it opens multiple possible directions.
That flexibility can be a huge advantage—but only if you’re willing to actively build your profile through internships, international experiences, languages, and networking opportunities.
Because in this field, your experience matters as much as your diploma.
What Can You Do With an International Relations Degree?
One of the biggest misconceptions about International Relations is that it only leads to diplomacy.
In reality, graduates work across a wide range of sectors and industries.
Some examples include:
– International organizations and NGOs.
– Government institutions and foreign affairs.
– Multinational companies.
– International communication and media.
– Public policy and consulting.
– International education and cultural programs.
Many students interested in this path also explore long-term goals connected to a diplomatic career path, while others become interested in areas like global business, geopolitical analysis, or work in an NGO environment.
The versatility of the degree is one of its strongest advantages.
And if you want a more detailed breakdown of professional opportunities, you can also explore different international relations careers and pathways connected to this field.
How to Choose the Best University for an International Relations Degree
This is where many students underestimate the importance of the decision.
Because not all International Relations programs prepare students in the same way.
And in a global field, the academic environment matters enormously.
Here are some of the key criteria worth evaluating before choosing a university:
| Criterion | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Language of instruction | Defines your graduate profile and international network. Studying in English opens doors to international employers and organizations from day one. |
| Academic system | European (ECTS) vs. American credits: different curricular flexibility, recognition abroad, and graduate school options. |
| Study abroad options | Erasmus partnerships vs. own agreements with US universities. The scope and type of mobility shape your international experience significantly. |
| Internship and employability network | Access to agreements with companies, institutions, and international organizations. A strong network matters more than the degree name on many CVs. |
| City and environment | Proximity to embassies, EU institutions, multinational headquarters and professional networking opportunities — especially relevant in Madrid. |
This last point is often underestimated.
But in International Relations, where you study can directly affect the kind of opportunities and connections you access during your degree.
Where to Study an International Relations Degree in Spain
Spain offers several universities with International Relations programs, but the experience can vary significantly depending on the city and educational model.
And in a field this international, those differences matter.
Studying International Relations in Madrid
Madrid has become one of the strongest locations in Spain for students interested in global careers.
Why?
Because it combines academic life with direct exposure to:
– Embassies and consulates.
– International organizations.
– Government institutions.
– Multinational companies.
– Think tanks and policy forums.
– International events and conferences.
This creates an environment where students are not only studying theory.
They are surrounded by the real ecosystem connected to their future industry.
For students interested in politics, diplomacy, international business, or international relations employment, this context can make a major difference over time.
CIS University: Bachelor’s in International Studies in English with an American Degree
At CIS University, International Relations is approached through an International Studies model inspired by the American educational system.
That means students experience:
– Classes taught fully in English.
– A highly international student environment.
– Discussion-based and participatory learning.
– Greater academic flexibility.
– Transferable credits within the American system.
The program combines political, economic, cultural, and communication perspectives to help students develop a broader international profile.
In addition, students can benefit from pathways that allow them to continue their studies internationally while earning an accredited American degree.
This combination of Madrid + English + American education creates a very different experience from more traditional models.
Explore our Bachelor’s in International Relations
Requirements for an International Relations Degree in Spain
Requirements vary depending on the university, but most programs typically ask for:
– Secondary school completion or university entrance qualifications.
– Academic transcripts.
– In some cases, interviews or motivation statements.
– English language proficiency for programs taught in English.
For universities using the American system, admissions processes often evaluate more than grades alone.
They also look at:
– Motivation and personal profile.
– International interests.
– Communication skills.
– Academic potential.
– Critical thinking.
This is because these programs are designed for students who are expected to participate actively, not just attend lectures.
Frequently Asked Questions About the International Relations Degree
Before choosing this path, students usually have important questions.
An internationalist is someone trained to understand and work within global political, economic, and cultural systems. The profile combines analytical, communication, and cross-cultural skills, with career paths ranging from diplomacy and international organizations to consulting, multinational business, and development cooperation.
If the program is taught in English, yes. English is especially important because it is the working language in most international careers. Studying fully in English from day one — as at CIS University — not only prepares you linguistically but builds the confidence to operate in any global environment.
Salaries vary greatly depending on the sector, country, and role. Careers in diplomacy, consulting, international business, and NGOs all follow different paths. Profiles with language skills, international experience, and specialized knowledge tend to have stronger salary progression, particularly in strategic consulting, multilateral institutions, or multinational companies.
The American system is usually more flexible, discussion-based, and internationally oriented from day one. Traditional Spanish programs often follow a more structured academic model focused on lecture and exam. At CIS University, the American approach means active participation, diverse classrooms, and a learning environment that already mirrors the international settings you will work in.
Choosing an International Relations degree is not only about what you want to study.
It’s about the kind of future (and the kind of world) you want to be part of.