My kid is interested in applying to UCLA as an International Relations major, but there is no per se “International Relations” major. The closest majors I found are Global Studies and International & Area Studies majors. What are the differences, and can you major in one while minoring in the other? Is there someone you can talk to to get some advice before applying to UCLA regarding the differences and similarities in these two majors? Thanks in advance.
I’m a current GS senior at UCLA. If your kid is looking for the “traditional” international relations route, they should look at Political Science with a concentration in International Relations.
I don’t think you can minor in PSCI or IA Stds, but you can minor in GS. Here are the general differences between PSCI, GS, and IA Stds:
PSCI IR is focused on state-to-state interactions and the theories behind them.
GS is about Globalization (global interconnection). It specifically focuses on cultural (think anthropology/sociology), political (same as PSCI), and economic (international trade) connection. The major requires a travel abroad during a summer.
IA Stds focuses on a specific region or area and covers general information about that region, language, culture, history, politics, economy etc.
Hope this helps!