Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

This degree blends foundational international relations theory with focused study of national security, intelligence, and diplomatic practice. You will progress from broad survey courses to specialised modules and a senior capstone project that emphasises research, policy analysis and real-world application.

• Core international relations: theories of international relations, global governance, international political economy and comparative politics.
• National security and defence: national security policy, homeland security, intelligence studies, terrorism and counterterrorism, and military-civil relations.
• Law, institutions and diplomacy: international law, diplomacy and negotiation, human rights and international organisations.
• Methods and skills: qualitative and quantitative research methods, policy analysis, GIS and data literacy for social science, writing for policy audiences.
• Regional and thematic electives: study of regions such as Europe, the Middle East, Latin America and Asia, plus thematic electives in migration, development, energy security and cybersecurity.
• Experiential learning: internship opportunities with government agencies, NGOs or private sector organisations, study abroad options and a senior capstone or honours thesis focused on an applied security or international relations problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions decisions are based on a combination of academic record, recommended coursework and supporting materials.

• Academic preparation: competitive high-school grades with coursework in social studies, history and English recommended.
• Standardised tests: Georgia Southern follows a holistic admissions process; applicants may submit standardised test scores where available but these are not always required—check the university admissions guidance for current policy.
• Supplementary materials: a personal statement or essay outlining interest in international relations and security, and letters of recommendation can strengthen an application.
• Transfer applicants: official college transcripts showing completed university-level coursework and a recommended minimum number of transferable credits.
• International students: proof of English language proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS) if English is not a first language, plus certified academic transcripts and any visa-related documentation required by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with analytical, research and communication skills applicable across public, private and non-profit sectors. The degree prepares students for direct employment and for graduate study in fields such as international affairs, security studies and law.

• Public sector: policy analyst, intelligence analyst, homeland security officer, foreign service or civil service roles at local, state or federal levels.
• Defence and security: roles in military staff, defence contractors, security consultancy and emergency management agencies.
• International and non-governmental organisations: program officer, project analyst, human rights or humanitarian assistance positions with NGOs, international organisations and multilateral institutions.
• Private sector and media: risk analyst, corporate security, international business development and journalism focused on international affairs.
• Further study: many graduates pursue postgraduate degrees in international relations, public policy, national security studies, law or related fields.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers this programme within a public research university that emphasises applied learning, regional engagement and small-class interaction. Students benefit from accessible faculty with expertise in international relations and security, and from opportunities to undertake internships and community-engaged research.

• Multiple campuses and regional access: with campuses in Statesboro and coastal locations, students can engage with a diverse set of regional institutions and practicum placements.
• Experiential focus: robust internship support and encouragement to participate in study abroad, practicum placements and a capstone project that connects academic work to practical policy problems.
• Support for veterans and ROTC opportunities: a student community that includes veterans and military-affiliated students, plus ROTC programmes for those interested in military service.
• Career preparation: career services, networking events and connections to regional government, non-profit and private employers to help translate academic experience into employment or graduate-study pathways.