A career in international relations can revolve around the intersection and exchange of politics, culture, and media. Careers in this area can work for federal or international government departments and branches or non-governmental organizations (including non-profits, humanitarian/philanthropic organizations, or corporate organizations).

Global Communication courses have the most direct relevance to this career path, due in large part to their focus on examining how to create effective communication across different cultures, political systems, and media structures. Students interested in this career path would also benefit from taking classes in Communication and Culture, which takes a deeper look at how people communicate within and across distinctive groups, societies, and languages.

Additionally, courses within Social Interaction assist students in learning more about social influence, persuasion, and effective deliberation in decision-making situations. If students are interested in a more political orientation to international relations, courses in Political Communication afford students to learn more about how law and policy affect communication.

There are a wide variety of jobs one might take on this career path. Examples include the following:

• Diplomatic agent/liaison
• International negotiator
• Tour guide
• Translator/language specialist
• Foreign affairs analyst/specialist
• Immigration specialist
• Foreign service officer
• Intelligence specialist/analyst
• Policy advisor

To prepare for a career in this area, students may also seek out classes in the Jackson School of International Studies, or a minor in International Studies, which offers various courses within specific geographic regions. Students interested in furthering their education may also wish to participate in a study abroad program like the UW Exploration Seminars.

A full list of internships available through the department can be accessed here.
Below, we’ve listed several alumni from the Department of Communication with successful careers in international relations.