4 benefits of studying a master’s in international relations abroad

Sponsored by IE School of Global and Public Affairs  

In an increasingly globalised world, there has never been a better time to study international relations and understand the complex challenges affecting today’s society.  

As a branch of political science, an international relations degree entails examination of states and transnational organisations, as well as pressing issues such as rising inequality, SDGs and climate change.  

With possible career paths ranging from political affairs officers at the UN to international development workers at an NGO, studying international relations could be an option for you if you’re passionate about making a difference.  

At IE School of Global and Public Affairs in Spain, the Master in International Relations is a highly customisable programme that is designed to meet the needs of the international job market, particularly for students looking for a unique cultural experience in the heart of Europe.  

Here’s how you can benefit from studying international relations at a world-renowned school:  

Enjoy an international experience 

A successful study of international relations requires the ability to understand international perspectives – what better way to do it than studying at a school well known for its highly diverse student body?  

Giancarlo Falguera Silva, an alumnus from the programme, decided to make the move from the US to Spain as a result of his desire to experience Spanish culture and the school’s diversity.  

He said: “Nearly 30 different nationalities are represented in the programme, all of whom bring a new and different perspective to every discussion that we have in class.” 

Rebecca Zlatkinm, who previously studied political science and economics in the US, also spoke of her experience on the programme: “It has challenged me to go beyond my comfort zone and have conversations across the political and cultural spectrum with my peers.  

“At IE University, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from people who are culturally very different from me. I am constantly pushed to question my views and understanding of the world in an international context.” 

A world-class education 

The flexible nature of the programme means that students can focus on what interests them the most. There are three core tracks:  

• Geopolitics and diplomacy 
• International economics and business 
• Global governance and international cooperation 

Bryce Johnston, a graduate of the programme, said: “The different modules catered to everyone’s unique experiences. In one class, I would hear first-hand about the intricacies of bond pricing, while in the next, my friends would explain legal issues in Latin America.” 

As a result of the school’s outstanding faculty, IE School of Global and Public Affairs is now a full member of the most prestigious organisations and networks in its academic space: the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA), the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) and the European Consortium for Political Research (ECPR). 

Opportunities outside the classroom 

Aside from a strong academic programme, students will also participate in a fieldwork visit to Brussels, where they’ll learn from regional and global players in the space of international relations. The school’s partners in these trips include the European Commission, the European Parliament and NATO, in addition to private-sector and civil-society organisations. 

KC Anderson, a graduate of the Dual Degree International MBA and Master in International Relations, said: “Standing in the European Parliament with a representative from Spain and discussing transatlantic security cooperation with officials at NATO are once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will forever serve as highlights from my time as a student at IE University.” 

Plus, students can complete an exchange at one of IE’s partner universities around the world. Examples of potential universities include Sciences Po, the University of St. Gallen, the University of Pittsburgh, as well as many more.  

Career development 

IE University collaborates with global institutions to help students gain invaluable practical experience. Giancarlo spoke highly of the opportunities he had working with the UN and NATO, as part of the capstone project. He said: “These types of partnerships show just how proactively IE Talent & Careers reaches out to students to help them with their professional ambitions.”  

KC said: “I landed my current position as a Senior Consultant for Government and Public Services at Deloitte thanks to my experience at IE University.  

“The university opened many doors for networking opportunities, as well as interactions with an extremely talented peer group that pushed me to be the best student I could possibly be. The combination of my international experience and the diversity IE University provides set me apart from other applicants.”