Global Studies vs International Relations: Which major should I choose?

I'm a junior trying to figure out what to major in when I go to college. I've narrowed it down to Global Studies and International Relations, but I'm still not sure which one to pick. Can someone please explain the main differences between these two majors and what kind of career paths they could lead to? Thanks!

It's great that you've narrowed down your interests to Global Studies and International Relations. While both majors involve the study of relationships between countries and global issues, they do have some key differences.

Global Studies is a more interdisciplinary major that combines various fields such as history, anthropology, sociology, political science, and economics to understand global issues from multiple perspectives. It often focuses on themes like globalization, culture, and governance. Students in this major can analyze global trends, conflicts, and cooperation. Typical courses could include global politics, international development, human rights, and cultural studies.

Career paths for Global Studies majors can be quite diverse. Some job options include working for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations like the United Nations, government agencies, global companies, and even academia or research. Roles can range from international development specialists, policy analysts, human rights advocates, and cultural advisors.

International Relations, on the other hand, is a more focused major that centers on political science and the relationships between different countries. This major usually addresses topics such as international politics, diplomacy, international law, and foreign policy. Students learn about the ways states and non-state actors interact on the global stage, and how power dynamics shape these interactions.

Career paths for International Relations majors often involve careers in diplomacy, policy analysis, and foreign affairs. Some examples of job opportunities include working as a diplomat, foreign service officer, intelligence analyst, or international consultant. Additionally, graduates may work in organizations such as the State Department, international organizations, think tanks, or global corporations.

Ultimately, the choice between Global Studies and International Relations depends on your specific interests and career goals. If you prefer a broader, multidisciplinary approach to understanding global issues and value the study of culture and society, Global Studies might be a better fit for you. However, if you're more interested in the political side of international affairs and want to focus on diplomacy and power dynamics between states, then International Relations is likely the better option.

Remember, you still have time to explore these majors further, and many colleges offer overlapping coursework that can give you a taste of both fields before you commit to a specific major. Good luck with your decision!