The Importance and Scope of International Relations

The world is more connected than ever. That means understanding how countries, organisations and global players interact is crucial. The scope of international relations covers everything from trade wars to climate negotiations, making it one of the most relevant fields you can study today. Whether you’re interested in diplomacy, business or solving global challenges, international relations gives you the tools to understand and influence how our world works. Let’s explore why the nature of international relations makes it such a powerful degree choice.

What Is International Relations?

International relations is the study of how countries, organisations and global players interact on the world stage. Think of it as understanding the ‘big picture’ of global cooperation.

The nature and scope of international relations is impressively broad. You’ll dive into everything from why countries go to war to how international trade agreements get hammered out. It’s part politics, part economics, part history, and all of it is fascinating.

What makes this field unique is that you’re not just studying governments. You’ll explore how multinational companies, NGOs, international organisations like the UN and even individual activists shape global events. It’s a field that recognises the reality of modern international affairs – influence comes from many different sources.

What’s the Importance of International Relations?

Here’s the thing: the world’s biggest challenges don’t respect borders. Climate change, cyberattacks, pandemics, economic crises: they all require countries to work together. Studying international relations gives you the skills to understand these complex, interconnected problems.

The scope of international relations is huge, covering areas like diplomacy, conflict resolution, human rights, international law, global economics and environmental policy. You’ll study everything from how peace treaties get negotiated to why some countries become economic powerhouses while others struggle.

This breadth makes international relations incredibly versatile. Whether you’re passionate about human rights, fascinated by global economics or want to understand how international organisations work, there’s space for your interests.

What Skills Can You Gain While Studying International Relations?

An international relations degree develops skills that employers love across all sectors.

Some of the key skills include:

• Critical thinking and analytical skills: You’ll interpret complex global issues, assess evidence, weigh arguments, think about causes and consequences
• Research and methodological skills: Qualitative methods (case studies, interviews), quantitative methods (statistics, modelling), policy analysis
• Communication skills: Writing clearly, presenting arguments, engaging in debate, crafting reports or policy papers
• Negotiation and diplomacy: Learning how to build consensus, understanding different vantage points, negotiating across cultures
• Cultural awareness and global mindset: Understanding diverse political systems, legal frameworks, cultural norms
• Problem-solving and adaptability: Dealing with ambiguity, emerging crises, changing global landscapes
• Project and time management: Juggling multiple assignments/modules, meeting deadlines, working in teams

These skills make you more employable not just in IR-specific roles, but also transfer brilliantly to business, law and leadership.

How Can Studying International Relations Benefit Your Career?

International relations jobs span far more sectors than you might expect. Yes, there are traditional diplomatic careers in foreign ministries and international organisations like the UN, World Bank or European Union. But there’s so much more.

The private sector increasingly values international relations graduates. Multinational corporations, consulting firms and financial institutions need people who understand global markets, political risks and cross-cultural dynamics.

NGOs and think tanks offer meaningful careers for those passionate about specific issues, whether that’s human rights, environmental protection or conflict resolution. Media companies need journalists and analysts who can explain complex global events to the public.

The advantage of international relations is its global employability. Your degree prepares you to work anywhere in the world, making you attractive to global employers seeking professionals who can navigate international complexity.

Why Study a Bachelor’s in International Relations

Choosing an international relations degree at undergraduate level gives you a strong foundation: academically, intellectually and personally. Some of the benefits include:

• Solid grounding in theory and history: you’ll understand how international systems have evolved, major theories (realism, liberalism, constructivism, etc.), legal and ethical frameworks
• Exposure to a variety of international relations subjects: maybe global security, international law, political economy, environmental diplomacy, global health etc., giving you room to discover what excites you most
• Develop a broad worldview and awareness, understanding not only your own country but other political, cultural, economic systems and how they interrelate
• Personal growth: awareness, empathy, ability to navigate difference, leadership, confidence engaging with complex issues
• Smooth progression to postgraduate study if you choose, or step into work with both specialist knowledge and transferable skills

A BA in this field is not only about preparing for a job, but about building your ability to think globally and act responsibly in a complex world.

Why Choose Gisma University of Applied Sciences for Your International Relations Degree in Germany

Germany sits at the heart of European politics and is a major global economic power, making it the perfect place to study international relations. You’ll be learning where European Union decisions are made and where major international negotiations happen.

At Gisma, we combine academic theory with practical skills that employers actually want. Our strong industry connections mean internships, networking opportunities and career guidance that bridges the gap between study and professional success.

Our international student community creates a truly global learning environment. You’ll work with classmates from around the world, giving you firsthand experience of the cross-cultural collaboration that defines modern international relations careers.

Our comprehensive career support ensures your degree translates into opportunities. From CV development to networking events, we’ll support you throughout your studies and beyond.

Conclusion

International relations subjects prepare you for a world where global thinking is essential. Whether you end up in diplomacy, business, journalism or the third sector, you’ll have the analytical skills, global perspective and cultural awareness that modern careers demand.

The challenges facing our world need people who can think internationally, work across cultures and find solutions to complex problems. An international relations degree positions you to be part of these solutions.

Ready to start your international career? Explore Gisma’s BSc International Relations programme and discover how we can help launch your global future.

Your world-changing career starts here.

FAQs

How do international relations programmes prepare students for real-world challenges?

International relations programmes combine theory with practical applications, giving you the ability to analyse complex global issues and propose solutions. You learn to think critically, communicate across cultures and adapt to fast-changing international contexts. Many programmes also integrate case studies, simulations and internships that mirror professional scenarios.

What subjects are typically covered in an international relations degree?

An international relations degree usually includes modules on global politics, diplomacy, international law, economics, security studies, human rights and global governance. Many programmes also explore specialised areas like climate policy, migration or regional studies. This mix allows you to build both broad knowledge and expertise in specific international relations subjects.

What qualifications do I need to study international relations?

Most universities ask for secondary school completion with good academic results and evidence of English language proficiency. Some may require specific grades or subjects, though international relations generally welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds. Strong communication and analytical skills are also advantageous.

What academic programmes are available in international relations?

You can study international relations at undergraduate level, such as a bachelor’s degree that introduces core theories and skills. At postgraduate level, master’s and doctoral programmes, which allow you to specialise further, often focusing on particular themes or regions. Some institutions also offer combined or interdisciplinary degrees linking IR with business, law or data analysis.p travel discounts for longer trips. Download travel apps like the BVG Berlin app or BD Navigator for real-time updates, check fares, and plan routes.