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Examine how nations, cultures and global systems interact

International relations majors are world travelers, humanists, problem-solvers, innovators and advocates. As an international relations major at Linfield, you will study across the disciplines of politics, history, economics, cultures, ethics, literature and language to gain a solid skill set applicable to a global career.

Curious whether this program is the right fit?

Share a little about yourself through our information request form to connect with an admission counselor and get answers about the international relations program.

What You Can Expect

Study of global politics, diplomacy and international systems

Coursework explores how nations cooperate, compete and negotiate, examining institutions such as the United Nations, international law, trade systems and security alliances.

Interdisciplinary perspectives on global issues

Students analyze topics including human rights, development, conflict, migration, climate change and global inequality, drawing on multiple academic fields to understand their causes and consequences.

Cultural and regional understanding through language and area studies

Language study and region‑focused coursework deepen cultural awareness and provide context for understanding global interactions and international decision‑making.

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Students posing for a photo in front of the sea while studying abroad in Austria.

Why Study International Relations at Linfield?

International Relations at Linfield offers an academic environment grounded in curiosity, global awareness and interdisciplinary collaboration. Small classes encourage discussion, debate and close engagement with complex international issues. Faculty mentorship supports students as they pursue regional interests, thematic questions or policy‑focused research. The program’s integration of political science, history, economics and cultural studies fosters a broad, nuanced understanding of global systems. This approach cultivates analytical thinking, cross‑cultural communication and a commitment to thoughtful global engagement.

Accolades & Rankings

#1 College in Oregon
- TIME Magazine
#1 Liberal Arts College in Oregon for Social Mobility
- U.S. News and World Report
#1 Best Value College in Oregon
- Niche

International Relations Career Outlook

An international relations degree can open doors for your career

In 2024, the median annual wage for workers with a social science degree was $75,000, exceeding the national average of $49,500. While your income heavily depends on where you live, your level of education and the depth of your experience, enriching your expertise can help support your career growth and financial stability.

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Potential career paths include:

  • Foreign Service or Diplomatic Officer
  • Intelligence or Security Analyst 
  • Policy or Research Analyst 
  • International Development or Humanitarian Specialist
  • NGO or Human Rights Program Coordinator
  • Political Risk or Global Strategy Analyst
  • International Business or Trade Specialist
  • Journalist or Global Communications Specialist

What financial assistance is available?

Financing your college education can feel like a lot to manage, but 喵咪社区 is here to help make the process clearer and more manageable. Linfield’s Financial Aid Office offers personalized guidance from experienced counselors who can help you understand your options, plan ahead, navigate the and answer any questions along the way.

You can also plan ahead by estimating your cost of attendance using Linfield’s Cost Calculator.

Scholarships 

喵咪社区 offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to help reduce the cost of college. When you apply for admission, you’ll automatically be considered for many Linfield scholarships. Additional scholarships are available based on academic interests, achievements, life experiences and personal background.

Learn more about available scholarships on Linfield’s Scholarships page.

Request more information

Have questions about studying international relations at Linfield? Reach out! We'd love to connect with you.

portrait of Patrick Cottrell
Patrick Cottrell
Professor and Department Chair
Walker Hall
503-883-2477
pcottre@linfield.edu