International Relations Major: Curriculum, Career Prospects & Inspiring Alumni

What is International Relations?

International Relations (IR) is a branch of social science that studies interactions between countries, international organizations, multinational corporations, and other non-state actors on a global scale. IR students not only learn the theories of interstate relations, but also analyze various global issues such as diplomacy, peace, conflict, economic cooperation, climate change, human rights, and international security challenges.

In general, the IR program equips students with critical thinking skills, the ability to analyze global issues, cross-cultural communication, as well as negotiation and diplomacy skills. Students will also gain an understanding of the political, economic, social, and legal dynamics that influence a country’s foreign policy and international relations.

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Scope of Study & Core Courses in International Relations

The scope of IR studies is very broad and multidisciplinary. Some of the core courses commonly taught include:

• Theories of International Relations
• Foreign Policy
• International Diplomacy and Negotiation
• Area Studies (Southeast Asia, Europe, Americas, Middle East)
• International Law
• International Political Economy
• International Organizations (UN, ASEAN, WTO, etc.)
• International Security and Conflict Studies
• Globalization and Contemporary Issues
• Foreign Policy Analysis

In addition to lectures, IR students are also active in international simulation forums (such as Model United Nations), policy research, internships at government agencies or international organizations, and extracurricular activities that strengthen networking and soft skills.

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Career Prospects for International Relations Graduates

Graduates of IR have very broad career prospects, both domestically and internationally. Here are some career paths often pursued by IR alumni:

• Diplomats and Ministry of Foreign Affairs staff
• Employees of international organizations (UN, ASEAN, global NGOs)
• International business consultants and corporate relations
• Journalists and global issue analysts at international media
• Academics and researchers at research institutes or universities
• Foreign relations staff at multinational companies
• Program managers at international donor agencies

In the era of globalization, the need for professionals who understand international dynamics is increasingly high, whether in government, private sector, or non-profit organizations. Strategic thinking, cross-cultural communication, and international networking are key advantages for IR graduates.

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International Relations at Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH)

Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) is one of Indonesia’s top private universities offering an internationally-standardized International Relations program. Under the Faculty of Social & Political Sciences, the IR program at UPH is designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge, practical skills, and leadership character rooted in Christian values.

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Strengths of UPH’s International Relations Program

International & Multidisciplinary Curriculum
UPH’s IR curriculum integrates theory and practice, covering area studies (especially ASEAN & Southeast Asia), international security, digital diplomacy, global business, and contemporary global issues. Students also learn from experienced lecturers and practitioners from both Indonesia and abroad.

Flexible Program Options
UPH offers a regular program for full-time students, as well as a professional class (evening/weekend program) designed for those who wish to continue their studies while working. There are also specializations such as ASEAN & Southeast Asian Studies and International Business & Security.

Global Network & Internship Opportunities
UPH has partnerships with various universities and international organizations, giving students the opportunity to join student exchanges, overseas internships, or international conferences.

Multicultural Environment
IR students at UPH come from various regions of Indonesia and abroad, creating a learning environment rich in global perspectives and cross-cultural experiences.

Modern Facilities & Career Support
UPH provides complete campus facilities, research centers, a diplomacy simulation laboratory, and career development services to help students prepare for the workforce.

Soft Skills & Leadership Development
Students are encouraged to actively participate in seminars, training, student organizations, and various national and international competitions to strengthen critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills.

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Specializations & Professional Classes

• ASEAN and Southeast Asian Studies (info)
• International Business and Security (info)
• International Relations for Professionals/Evening Classes (info)

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Success Stories: UPH International Relations Alumni

UPH IR alumni have proven their competitiveness in various sectors, both nationally and internationally. Here are some inspiring alumni profiles:

• Anastasia Praditha (2016): Policy Officer at the Embassy of the Netherlands in Indonesia, actively involved in foreign policy development and bilateral cooperation.
• Dicky Satria (2013): Consultant at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Indonesia, contributing to sustainable development programs and public policy advocacy.
• Grace R. Wibowo (2012): Corporate Communications Specialist at Unilever Indonesia, responsible for corporate communications and global issues.
• Dewi Ayu Lestari (2014): International Journalist at Reuters, covering political and economic issues in Southeast Asia.
• Fachri Ramadhan (2017): Diplomacy Staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, representing Indonesia in various international forums.

Many UPH IR alumni are also active as mentors, speakers, and community leaders, expanding UPH’s network and reputation in the global arena.
See complete alumni stories at: UPH IR Alumni Stories

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FAQ: International Relations Major

1. What are the main courses in IR?
   Theories of international relations, foreign policy, diplomacy, international organizations, global security, international political economy, area studies.
2. Can IR graduates only become diplomats?
   No. IR graduates can work in government, international organizations, global business, media, and research.
3. Is UPH’s IR program available for working professionals?
   Yes, there is a special program for professionals/evening classes.
4. Are there student exchange opportunities at UPH?
   Yes. UPH has global partnerships for exchange programs and international internships.
5. Is it easy for UPH IR graduates to get a job?
   With a relevant curriculum, global network, and strong soft skills development, UPH IR graduates are highly competitive in both national and international job markets.

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Enroll & Build Your Global Career with UPH IR

Interested in building an international career and being part of a global community? Apply now to the International Relations program at Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) and gain opportunities to study, intern, and network professionally at both the national and international levels.

There are many special tuition discounts available for new registrations. Exciting, right? Register now (click here).

Contact a Student Consultant at 0811-1057-7765 for more information!

Be a future leader with UPH’s excellent, integrity-driven, and globally-minded IR education!

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