I am in highschool applying to colleges now and I’m looking at my academic choices. I really want to work globally and with a variety of businesses (nothing specific yet). I want to work towards a double major in college, but I’m confused on how it works. I defiantly want to major in German, a language I am already taking, but should I pair it with business/economics or international affairs? My parents believe that international affairs is too vague and is too close to political science, which goes towards a career in law. If I take German with economics what are my future (job) choices? What would I miss out if I don’t take International affairs? Would I really have the chance to get a better job, or are economics and international affairs similar enough for applying to a business? Is there anyway I can do German, International affairs, and economics? maybe minor in one? If it depends on the school how can I find out?
If you want to work in business, then a second major in business or economics is a better choice than international affairs. You can use some electives to supplement your majors in German + business economics with some courses in international relations without doing a formal minor in it (or, you might be able to fit in a formal minor in IR). Keep in mind that you would be encouraged (if not required) to study in a German-speaking country for a semester or an full academic year. You might be able include an internship in a foreign company as part of this.
You can pursue a career in several areas of international affairs with a degree in economics; you don’t necessarily need a major in international affairs for this. Though you can pursue a career in certain areas of business with a major in international affairs, an economics or business major would be a stronger preparation and probably would open up more opportunities. Of course, adding a graduate business degree (MBA) considerably changes this. In general, economics and IR are not similar enough in applying for many business positions.
Other options to consider:
-IR programs commonly require you to choose both a thematic track and a country/regional track. For a thematic track, usually one or more options in economics are available. German would cover the language requirement and you’d have to add some courses in area studies (e.g., German history, politics, etc.) to complete the country/regional track.
-Some German departments offer a track which combines German language studies and business studies.
-You could consider a major in international business, which typically would have a language requirement. Often, international business is only permitted as a secondary major that must be paired with a major in one of the core business subspecialties (e.g., accounting, management, marketing, finance, etc.).