About BA In International Relations in San Francisco State University

International Relations (IR) is an interdisciplinary major focusing on the changing political, economic, and cultural relations within a globalized system. The program explores how global, regional, and domestic factors influence relations between actors on the world stage. Students are prepared for future careers, civic engagement, and life-long learning with strong analytical, writing, research, and presentation skills steeped in theory, history, and practice. 

Our faculty offers courses in theory and regional/thematic issue-areas that meet the diverse needs and preferences of students. Examples of our student best practices include the development of individual and group projects in close consultation with faculty. Outcomes of such training in research and presentation skills are evident not only in classes, including the culminating senior thesis experience (I R 550), but also in student participation in IR conferences at both regional and national levels. Our students have the opportunity to publish their original research papers in the Department’s International Relations Journal.

Program Learning Outcomes

Courses for the Bachelor of Arts in International Relations have three objectives:

1. To impart knowledge of basic concepts, theories and methods in international relations.
2. To develop in each student at least one area of special individual competence in international relations.
3. To train students in research, writing, analytical, and presentation/communication skills.

While integrating liberal arts educational goals, the program also seeks to develop marketable skills appropriate to the field. Utilizing the extensive course offerings in IR and other departments, students are encouraged to develop specializations within geographical, functional (e.g., international political economy), problem-oriented (e.g., arms control), theoretical and methodological, and other categories. The emphasis on elective courses of study requires students to consult with an advisor every semester.

Academic qualification equivalents

• Applicants must be qualified to enter a university in their home country and have a good scholastic record from an accredited/recognized school.

English language requirements

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

                 Paper-based Test (PBT): 500
                 Computer-based Test (CBT): 173
                 Internet-based Test (IBT): 61

•  IELTS (International English Testing System)

                  Minimum Overall Score 6.0

• Pearson Test of English (PTE)

                   Score of at least 50.

San Francisco State University Cost of Attendance

• Tuition, books and supplies, accommodation and board, transportation, and incidental fees are all included in the cost of studying in the United States.
• The cost of attendance for a full-time undergraduate student living on campus is listed below:

The university has a set tuition charge, as well as other costs, and the undergraduate full-time tuition fee and cost of attendance are as follows:

The graduate students cost of attendance will be:-