Introduction
The study of international relations focuses on how states, nations, societies, and people interact and shape one another on a global scale. IR involves the study of peace, justice, and stability in addition to the study of power and conflict at the international level.
Along with these subjects, IR scholars frequently pay close attention to economics, trade, culture, and law. Many experts specialize in a certain area or nation; for instance, some concentrate on Latin America or Russia, while others research a particular topic like extremism or nuclear proliferation.
In essence, the area of IR has a wide range of specialties and subfields that mirror its diverse subject matter. They include comparative politics, economics, ethics, law, gender studies, geography, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, psychology, religion, human rights, and diplomatic history.
If you believe that governments, businesses, and other private and public organizations must directly participate in and cooperate in order to address the present socio-economic issues facing the entire world, you should consider studying international relations. If you wish to improve your neighborhood and society for future generations, international relations is the perfect field to study. It also enables you to demonstrate that we have all the means and means available to address fundamental problems like hunger, homelessness, poor healthcare, inadequate education, etc.
Scope of International Relations
With a degree in international relations, you can pursue careers in law, international economics, or the civil service. The career path of journalism is also appropriate for those who want to work as international broadcasters and overseas news correspondents. Major multinational corporations like the Defense Department, both military and civilian, and intelligence agencies hire graduates of this field. Political, foreign, and diplomatic issues are significantly better understood when one studies international relations. Multinational corporations, consulting firms, and domestic and international financial institutions are the typical employers in this industry. International Relations students are also hired by major media organizations, legal firms, independent energy corporations, and multinational small and medium businesses. You need to have a good understanding of cultural differences to obtain prominent positions in the sector.
Nature of work
- Reviewing and outlining different international organizations’ policies.
- Conducting research on economic and governmental concerns that can have an impact on the company you work for.
- Examining national and international policies and social trends
- Surveying people and analyzing the results.
- Predicting political results and social trends.
- Collecting and studying electoral data.
- Surveying the populace to learn what they think about certain policies.
- Suggesting ways for institutions or organizations to advance.
- Publishing the results of your research through a variety of media
- Participating in media discussions to offer commentary and updates on the government’s or your own plans
How to become a specialist in International Relations
An intermediate-level student from any stream may pursue a degree in international relations. For development in the area after earning a bachelor’s degree, typically a master’s degree is needed. Choose the field you want to concentrate on after reviewing your many career options, then look for internships in that industry. Knowing a foreign language and having international experience are advantages over simply having work experience. This experience will demonstrate an understanding of working in cross-cultural teams, practical experience in underdeveloped nations, and language proficiency, all of which are beneficial for any profession in international relations.
Top university offering IR in Pakistan:
- National Defense University
- Quaid-e-azam University
- University Of The Punjab
- University of Karachi
- Government College University
- Bahria University
- National University Of Modern Languages
For details on institutes offering IR, visit
Required skills for a career in International Relations
- Self-awareness
- Creativity
- Data analysis
- Critical thinking
- Good verbal communication skills
- Persuasiveness
- View issues from diverse angles
- negotiation and prioritizing abilities
- Persistent
- Project management abilities
Job Prospects & Career Options
These are the most popular fields that you can join after having a degree in IR
- Political Analyst
- Journalist
- International Marketing Specialist
- Teacher or lecturer
- Civil services
- Print and Electronic Media
- NGO’s
- Advisor
- IR Consultant