Bachelor of Arts in International Relations
and Global Politics

The curriculum for the Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Global Politics provides the student with the practical and theoretical skills required to operate professionally in the field of international relations. The regional emphasis focuses on Europe, the Mediterranean and Middle East, with methodological courses in politics, economics, public administration, law and other areas of related interest.

Program Objectives

After having completed AUR’s program in International Relations and Global Politics, students will:

• Possess a framework of knowledge in the fields of politics, history, economics international relations and relevant social sciences.
• Possess the knowledge of the theory and the analytical ability to put it into comparative and ethical context.
• Possess methodological skills relevant to data-gathering and communication of findings.
• Be prepared for pursuing postgraduate studies or for a career in either International Governmental Organizations, International Non-governmental Organizations, public administration and associated institutions for research and commentary on the subject.
• Be able to use the Roman, Italian and multicultural learning experience at AUR in order to enhance their ability to apply the skills in other contexts.

In addition to the requisite classroom time, students pursuing an AUR degree in International Relations and Global Politics are given the opportunity to supplement class lectures with biannual international conferences which address issues of current topical interest and give students opportunities to meet, listen to and question those who develop and implement international relations policy. Students can also participate in relevant field trips around Italy, Europe and beyond, and internship possibilities in Rome at organizations dedicated to the pursuit of enhanced international cooperation.

Each year the Department concentrates on one or more themes or issues which link the courses to conferences, visiting speakers and field trips. Recent themes have included “Racism” and “Revolution”.

The Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Global Politics requires successful completion of 120 credits made up of a 40-credit General Education requirement, a 36-credit major and 44 credits of free electives. Students must achieve a cumulative grade point average of no less than 2.00 on a 4.00 scale, and earn at least a C grade (2.00) in every core course in the major (21 credits).

Requirements for the Degree

A. Proficiency in English, Mathematics and Italian Language

A note on our Proficiency Requirements and Placement Examinations: All new first-year students are required to take placement examinations in mathematics and English. New transfer students are exempt from taking the examinations only if transfer credits in mathematics and/or English have been accepted by AUR. Italian language tests are given for students wishing to register for a course above ITL 101 (optional). The tests are given during orientation week preceding the start of each semester. The scores obtained will be used for English, mathematics and Italian placement.

B. The General Education Requirements

1. Foundational Skills: First Year Seminar; Writing Skills; Quantitative and Scientific Reasoning; Italian language; IT skills; Information Literacy; Oral Presentation Skills
2. The Individual in a Multicultural Society; Three courses from a list in the Catalog
3. United States Government and Society; One course from a list in the Catalog
4. Roma Caput Mundi; One course from a list in the Catalog

C. Core Courses

• IA 100 Introduction to International Relations: History and Concepts
• IA 200 International Relations: Theories and Cases
• IA 201 Global Politics
• ECO 211 Principles of Macroeconomics
• IA 202 International Organizations or IA 203 US and Europe since 1945
• IAPO 300 Junior Research Seminar in International Politics
• IAPO 499 International Relations Senior Thesis

International Relations and Global Politics Electives

Students may take any courses from a list in the Catalog for a total of 15 credits. At least nine credits must be in Politics or International Affairs. At least one three-credit course other than the Senior Thesis must be at the 400-level.

Free Electives

Free electives can be used towards satisfying a minor, to supplement a major or to explore other academic areas.