Political Science vs International Relations?

College Majors Humanities Majors
1

Hi everyone,

I’m a junior right now and thinking about possible majors I could pursue in college. I’m better suited to things like world history, foreign culture, and politics. These are subjects that I actually enjoy as well. I also really enjoy learning about social issues. I do plan on pursuing more education after college.

As I’m looking at the specifics of each major, I’m seeing that International Relations and Political Science overlap alot. What makes them different, and which the better path to take as an undergrad?

On a second note, though I love politics, I’m not sure I want to remain in the US for the rest of my life. Would this affect my choice in a major? For example, if I did want to move abroad and I had studied Political Science, would I only be knowledgeable in the American system?

Thank you for any help.

2

International relations is essentially political science with a focus on international issues. It often involves more economics, history, and higher foreign language study.

Political science is a broader major that will generally require you to take a survey class in American government, international politics, and possibly comparative politics. It is also more likely to require classes in political theory. You will not only be knowledgable in the American system and have the flexibility to take classes about either domestic or foreign politics as an upperclassman.

I would make sure you apply to schools with the option to study both international relations AND political science, and then spend your first year taking classes in both to determine which is more suited to you!