Ursinus College

What you'll study

This programme blends core International Relations theory with focused coursework in national security, intelligence and policy analysis. You will encounter a mix of historical, theoretical and contemporary approaches to understanding state behaviour, conflict, cooperation and the institutions that shape global order.

• Core topics: international relations theory, comparative politics, US foreign policy, international law and organisations.
• National security focus: national security policy, intelligence and asymmetric threats, conflict and crisis management, homeland security and cyber security policy.
• Research and methods: quantitative and qualitative research methods, policy analysis, statistics for the social sciences.
• Practical skills: writing for policy, negotiation and mediation, data visualisation for analysts, public speaking and briefing preparation.
• Complementary studies: modern languages, history, economics, environmental security, and regional studies (e.g. Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa).
• Capstone and experiential learning: senior capstone seminar or research project, internship placement with government agencies, NGOs, think tanks or private-sector policy teams, and opportunities for study abroad to deepen regional expertise.

Programme structure

Students typically complete a mix of required core courses, elective seminars and a culminating capstone or research project. Small class sizes support close faculty mentoring and allow for seminar discussion, simulations and practicum work. Many students combine the major with a language minor or other complimentary majors such as Political Science, Economics or International Studies.

Entry requirements

Ursinus evaluates applications holistically. Successful applicants usually demonstrate strong performance in high‑school or secondary coursework with particular strength in social studies, history or related subjects. Admissions generally look for:

• Completed secondary school diploma with solid academic record.
• Evidence of strong analytical and written communication skills, often through essays or personal statements.
• Letters of recommendation that speak to intellectual curiosity and readiness for close faculty engagement.
• Preparation in or willingness to study a foreign language is advantageous for the international focus of the programme.
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through approved tests or equivalent documentation if their prior education was not in English.

Transfer applicants are assessed on college coursework and a record of success in relevant social‑science courses; internships or extracurricular engagement in politics, debate, Model UN or community organising strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with analytical, research and communication skills well suited to roles across the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Foreign service and diplomatic work at national foreign ministries or international organisations
• Policy analysis, legislative staff work or public affairs roles in government
• National and homeland security roles, intelligence analysis and security consulting
• Positions in international NGOs, humanitarian organisations and development agencies
• Research and advocacy work at think tanks, political risk firms and international consultancies
• Journalism, communications and public diplomacy
• Further study in law, international relations, public policy or security studies at graduate level

Internships and the capstone project are commonly used to build relevant experience and professional networks; many students pursue internships in nearby cities, and alumni often progress to graduate programmes or mid‑career roles in policy and security.

Why study at Ursinus College

Ursinus offers a liberal‑arts environment with small classes and close faculty mentoring, allowing students to pursue interdisciplinary study in international affairs alongside hands‑on learning. The college’s emphasis on undergraduate research and experiential opportunities means students can undertake faculty‑supervised projects and secure internships that translate classroom learning into practical skills.

• Small seminar sizes that prioritise discussion, simulations and personalised feedback.
• Access to internships and professional placements in nearby urban centres, enhancing practical experience in policy and security settings.
• Opportunities to combine the major with language study, study abroad and cross‑disciplinary minors to build regional and thematic expertise.
• Faculty with active research and practice experience who provide close mentorship for senior projects and career preparation.

Overall, the programme is designed to prepare students for careers that require rigorous analytical thinking, effective communication and real‑world experience in international and security affairs.