What Jobs Can I Get With an International Relations Major?

by Karen S. Johnson

A degree in international relations explores several disciplines, such as political science, economics, anthropology and sociology, that explain or illuminate circumstances in other countries and how those circumstances influence countries’ relationships with one another. As you get into your studies or perhaps during an internship, you may decide that one discipline holds more interest for you over others, and this can help guide your career selection or determine if you need an advanced degree. The specific discipline you choose will affect your salary.

Politics and Government

If politics has always fascinated you or you have an interest in public service, an international relations degree is conducive to working as a legislative aide, policy analyst at a government agency or running for public office. At the federal level, consider a foreign services career with the U.S. State Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Central Intelligence Agency or the United Nations -- although the UN has international hiring quotas and is limited in how many Americans it can hire. Fluency in a foreign language is an appealing skill for federal employers, particularly those in security, intelligence and diplomacy.

Business and Law

Conducting business globally isn’t the purview of large, international conglomerates; Internet technology has transformed even small businesses into international merchants. If you enjoy business issues such as trade regulations, import and export restrictions or implementing human resources policies on a global scale, highlight these strengths to companies conducting business internationally. Manufacturers and transportation service companies are typical examples but there are many others. If your specialty is finances, apply at large banks or investment firms. You can work in law without a law degree if you are happy as an administrative or legal assistant. Look for those with an international practice.


Numerous nonprofit agencies work internationally, allowing for opportunities to work in a domestic office with a global reach, to travel or even to be based in another country. Well-known nonprofit agencies that provide global services include the Red Cross and CARE, but there are many others, including environmental groups. Some humanitarian aid organizations routinely work in war-torn countries or respond to natural disasters, but many others work year-round in stable environments. Remember, there are nonprofit organizations in both the public and private sectors.


Possessing foreign-language fluency can open a lot of opportunities, either to augment a career or in working specifically as a translator or interpreter. While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 2010 median annual salary of $43,300, your income will also be affected by your employer and specialization. For example, a translator who understands complex medical concepts and terminology may earn more than one with no specific specialization. Proficiency in written translation can lead to work translating written documents for lawyers, advertising agencies and companies who need to draft or revise international agreements, such as employment contracts.

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