<p>I'm very familiar with the international relations programs in the UK, specifically St Andrews. To be honest, I think that St Andrews and Johns Hopkins are far and away the best options on your list. St Andrews is considered by many to be one of the two best IR programs in the UK and is more on par with Georgetown, Tufts, Ivies, etc. than the others you're considering. In fact, the School of International Relations at St Andrews has exchanges with Georgetown, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton, Columbia and others if this gives any indication of comparative quality. Though the undergraduate program at Johns Hopkins isn't nearly as strong as SAIS, the opportunity for the accelerated option is very valuable. Plus you'd be closer to DC with greater opportunities for internships. Both programs are great, but offer different experiences.</p>
<p>Much of the decision will come down to your particular interests. What specific sub-field within IR interests you? Each school has its own strengths. What type of location, urban or rural, are you looking for? Washington DC is a big city, while St Andrews is tucked away in a small resort community. If you have any other specific questions, feel free to ask.</p>