Interested in the impact of the Syrian refugee crisis or the global armed drone debate? Are you passionate about mitigating global climate change or working to stop human trafficking? Want to learn more about the rise of China or the future of the United Nations? These are among many topics you might explore as an International Relations major/minor.
International Relations is the study of international conflict and cooperation. Students of International Relations examine the world's urgent and increasingly complex political, economic and social issues: among them human rights, peace and security, international trade, democratization, and economic development. The new major/minor at LMU encourages students to critically evaluate international affairs, and prepares graduates for lives of active global citizenship.
What do International Relations majors do?
International Relations majors pursue an interdisciplinary course of classes, in political science, economics, and history, among others, seeking a holistic understanding of international issues and transnational problems. Majors also develop proficiency in a second language and gain firsthand international experience through a study abroad program or an international-focused internship.
Is this major right for you?
You might be an International Relations major if you are interested in:
- Diplomacy and inter-governmental relations
- International economics, trade, and business
- Peace and security studies
- International law
- Global health, climate justice, and/or human rights
- International aid and development
- Politics of international organizations
About our faculty
Our faculty members are committed to student success, using a variety of teaching methods—from simulations to international research immersion trips to community-based learning— to enhance student learning. In addition, faculty members actively advise students, supporting them in their academic and professional goals. All of the faculty members are engaged scholars, with active research agendas on a variety of issues relating to the social justice mission of the university. They are well-published, and frequently present their latest research at conferences and invited talks in their areas of expertise.
Representative Courses
- Latin American Politics
- Humanitarian Intervention
- International Security
- Politics of the Global Economy
- Middle East through Film
- Politics of Africa
- Political Violence and Terrorism
- Peace and Reconciliation
- Politics of East Asia
- The Future of the United Nations