International Relations

As an international relations major at Rollins, you’ll investigate some of the world’s most pressing challenges through an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses everything from political science and economics to history, anthropology, and modern languages. Along the way, you’ll develop in-demand analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills that will prepare you for an influential career in a range of fields.

Many Rollins alumni secure high-profile roles in government, diplomacy, Foreign Service, and intelligence. Others leverage their multifaceted skills and expertise in careers in business, journalism, law, and countless other sectors. No matter your specific career path, international relations will help you engage the world with big-picture perspective and understanding.

Why Study International Relations at Rollins

Interdisciplinary Approach

The challenges of the 21st century can’t be solved through a single lens. As a Rollins international relations major, you’ll grapple with these complex problems through an array of disciplines, including political science, history, anthropology, and economics.

Collaborative Research

Through Rollins’ Student-Faculty Collaborative Scholarship Program, every student has the opportunity to partner with our faculty on the kind of advanced research typically reserved for grad school.

Cross-Cultural Experiences

Increase your cultural competency and prepare for global impact by becoming fluent in a second language and engaging in an international learning experience.

Interested in Studying International Relations at Rollins?

“My courses in history, economics, anthropology, and political science gave me multiple lenses through which to view problems and prepared me to join the Fulbright program after graduating from Rollins. As a graduate student, this diverse academic background has also given me an advantage over classmates who are new to one area or another.”

Brenna McKee ’15

Master’s of International Affairs Candidate, University of California San Diego’s School of Global Policy and Strategy

Rollins International Relations Careers

Rollins international relations grads are making tomorrow happen at some of the world’s most innovative organizations.

Mo Coffey ’08

Director of the Fellowship for Emerging Leaders in Public Service, New York University

Layna Mosley ’93

Professor of Political Science, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

Brent Woolfork ’02

Director of Government Affairs, Center for American Progress

Elise Letanosky ’07

Head of Field Office, Anbar, Iraq, Danish Refugee Council

Jesenko Tesan ’04

Founder, Association and Institute for Studies of Societies in Transition

Ian Wallace ’12

International Trade Specialist, International Trade Administration

Real World Experience

From community engagement courses to internships and research, international relations students hone their skills in the real world.

Popular Courses

Within this multidisciplinary field, you can choose a focus according to your interests. You might earn a minor or double major by specializing in a geographic area, modern language, or complementary field, such as global health.

ECO 308

European Emerging Markets

Trace the transition from Communist to post-Communist economies across Central East Europe, and research the many factors shaping this region’s current economic climate.

International relations students in a lecture.

POL 332

International Human Rights

Examine the theories, politics, and laws that shape our understanding of human rights around the world, and engage issues such as gender, culture, refugees, and modern slaves.

ANT 365

Real and the Supernatural in Latin America

Investigate the Latin American folklore traditions of the supernatural—from witchcraft and ritual sorcery to shamanism and healing.

ANT 453

The Brazilian Amazon: Environment and Culture Change

Explore the relationship between the ecology of the Brazilian Amazon and the people who have lived there.

Students sit outside with their laptops for an outdoor seminar.

POL 353

Foreign Policy of the U.S.

Discuss the decision-making power of various stakeholders and debate whether U.S. foreign policy is reactive. You’ll also study everything from nuclear security and arms control to trade relations and foreign aid.

HIS 375

Aspects of War

Examine the political, social, economic, and personal impact of warfare, and investigate the causes and effects of this most brutal of human struggles.

Beyond the Classroom

Faculty-Led Field Studies Travel up the Mekong Delta as you explore the history and culture of Vietnam. Traverse the world’s tallest sand dunes while studying conservation management in Namibia. Help build an eco-lodge in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro as you examine community development in Tanzania. You’ll gain global experience under the watchful eye of seasoned faculty through dozens of one-of-a-kind field studies.

Prestigious International Opportunity Our rigorous curriculum prepares international relations majors to compete for elite scholarships and study-abroad opportunities. Just ask Karina Barbesino ’19, who spent three semesters studying Mandarin in China through the competitive Boren and Critical Language scholarships.

Get Involved Whether you’re crafting solutions to social issues at our Social Impact Hub or promoting civic engagement through The Democracy Project, you’ll have multiple opportunities to create change on our campus and in communities around the world.

An international relations student pushes a wheelbarrow in a villiage in Tanzania.

Expert Faculty

Rollins’ international relations faculty draws from the departments of anthropology, economics, history, political science, and modern languages and literatures. These experts have significant experience living, teaching, and researching abroad, several as Fulbright Scholars.

International Relations Program
Cornell Hall for the Social Sciences
1000 Holt Ave. – 2789
Winter Park, FL 32789
T. 407.646.2158
F. 407.646.2363

Visit the International Relations Program Website

Contact International Relations Professors