Global Affairs
How does game theory apply to international relations? Can we use economic policies to solve environmental issues? What are the best ways to influence behavior using social networks? Do social policies affect aging populations around the world? If these are the types of questions you're interested in, then come find the answers—and much more—as a global affairs major. This program is designed for students who are interested in the intersections among politics, economics, communications and sociology—all on an international scale.
What will I learn?
Political science. Economics. Communications. Sociology. As a global affairs major, you’ll typically take courses in all of these areas (and more!) as you gain a broad understanding of international politics and the many factors that influence them. You’ll learn how to think critically, analyze arguments, and understand strengths and weaknesses of international policies. This is a very flexible major, with only a few required courses, which means you’ll usually get to choose the classes that are most interesting to you.
What can I do with a global affairs degree?
The real question isn’t what can you do, but what do you want to do with a global affairs degree—and where do you want to do it?
Because this program gives you an understanding of politics, economics, sociology and communications—all with a global perspective—you might find yourself working for a private company, nonprofit organization, government agency or non-governmental organization (NGO) anywhere in the world.
Some of your career options may include:
- City manager.
- Communications specialist.
- Community relations manager.
- Diplomat.
- Economic consultant.
- Foreign correspondent.
- Foreign service officer.
- Government analyst.
- Journalist.
- Importer/exporter.
- Legislative assistant.
- Librarian.
- Lobbyist.
- Management analyst.
- Market research analyst.
- Politician.
- Public relations director.
- Research assistant.
- Writer.
Many students also use this degree as a foundation for graduate school or law school.
By the Numbers
Check out salary ranges and career outlooks straight from the U.S. Department of Labor to see the return on investment for your degree.
| Occupation Title | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage | Future Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Scientists | $93,630.00 | $45.02 | |
| Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other | $65,900.00 | $31.69 |
Data provided by the and DOL data from 2024.