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B.A. in International Relations

International Relations

The Department of International Relations (IR) offers an interdisciplinary program that allows students to develop a solid background in related areas of political science, political and diplomatic history, foreign policy, international law, political economy, civil society, and gender studies.

The bachelor’s degree in International Relations provides a solid foundation for diverse career options. These include those associated with politics and government, diplomatic service, international development, and business.

At a Glance:

Degree Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Total Credits 120 credit hours
Total Courses 40 courses
Duration of Study 3.5 – 5 years (depending on the student’s pace)
Language English
Start Date August or January
Costs Click Here
Chair of Department

Curricular Objectives

  • Introduce students to the major theories, concepts, approaches, and themes of International Relations.
  • Develop students’ understanding of, and critical thinking on, international politics and international institutions.
  • Prepare students for future careers with an international dimension, such as the Foreign Service or international organizations.
  • Instill in students an appreciation for the limitations of, and challenges facing, theoretical explanatory models in International Relations in our increasingly interconnected world.

Learning Outcomes

  • A strong understanding of the workings of the international system.
  • An understanding of motivations and strategies shaping foreign and defense policies.
  • Development of critical analytical skills regarding the complex interdependent global environment and security challenges within which policymakers operate.
  • An ability to think globally about emerging problems such as climate change, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation.
  • Thinking with a sense of ethical duty and responsibility about global affairs.
  • An advanced capacity at intercultural communication.

Course Structure

The course structure of the International Relations Program is divided as follows:

Requirements Type No. of Courses Credit Hours
General Education Compulsory 10 30
Core Compulsory 28 84
Free Elective 2 6
Total 40 120

Study Plan

The study plan summarizes the course’s subject requirements and indicates when planned subjects should be studied.

Download study plan

Future Career Scope

With a degree in International Relations, you can work as:

  • Diplomat:
    Represent and protect your nation’s interests abroad in the areas of politics, trade and consular services.
  • Political Analyst:
    Interpret various political developments, analyze laws, public policies and government decisions before advising government official, political parties or the media.
  • Foreign Affairs Analyst:
    Analyze and developments at the regional and international level before making recommendations on how these affect the work of your organization.
  • Non-Profit Program Coordinator:
    Plan and coordinate programs to further the organization’s goals and carries out fundraising, budgeting, and community outreach.
  • United Nations Worker:
    Work for one of the specialized agencies of the United Nations in the area of trade, human rights, development, environment or refugees to enact policies for the benefit of all humanity.

Duration of Study

You can set your study pace according to your circumstances and convenience:

  • Minimum 3.5 years, upon the successful completion of 12 courses per year.
  • Standard 4 years, upon the successful completion of 10 courses per year.
  • Maximum 5 years, upon the successful completion of 8 courses per year.

* This study duration does not include English language courses.

Academic Year Breakdown:
Semester Start Date End Date Duration Type
Fall 30 August 6 December 14 weeks Mandatory
Spring 10 January 22 April 14 weeks Mandatory
Summer June August 8 weeks Optional

* The start and end dates are subject to changes.

Semester:

Instructional period of 14 weeks plus a final examination period offered twice a year (referred to as Fall and
Spring semester). Additional instructional periods include intersessions and Summer sessions.

ACADEMIC CALENDAR

Tuition Fees

The American University of Kurdistan’s annual tuition fees per academic program is 8000$ (for 30 credits). However, self-funded students can benefit from a newly implemented 15% discount on the tuition fees. This discount does not apply to international students. For self-funded students and those awarded Merit Scholarships, the below tuition rates apply:

Baccalaureate % Annual tuition fees payment Annual tuition fees payment after 15% discount (NEW) Scholarship
98.0 – 100 $0 – Mustafa Barzani Merit Scholarship
90.00 – 97.99 $2,500 $2,150 Chairman Masrour Barzani Merit Scholarship*
80.00 – 89.99 $5,000 $4,250 Board of Trustees Merit Scholarship*
<79.99 $8,000 $6,800
International Students $10,000 Not Applicable
  • The above rates are applicable for students register for courses at AUK from January, 2021.
  • Annual tuition is based on registration as a full-time student and the successful completion of 30 credits.
  • Only a limited number of Merit Scholarships are available.
  • The American University of Kurdistan accepts students receiving Political
    Prisoners Aid and Martyrs Aid. Learn more about how you can finance your education.
  • Tuition fees installments are paid per semester.
  • Other fees are applicable.
LEARN MORE

Who Can Apply

National students graduated from one of the following:

  • High School: Arts or Science

Learn more about admissions requirements for International Students, Transfer of Credits and Readmission.

REGISTER YOUR INTERST

Entry Requirements

  • Students must be high school or Institute graduates.
  • Proof of English Proficiency. Learn more about our English language requirements and exemptions.

Minor Degree Opportunities

Students majoring in International Relations, have the option to earn a minor degree in the below programs:

  • Accounting & Finance Management
  • Business Management
  • Oil & Gas Management
  • Information Science
  • Environmental Science
  • International Studies
  • Public Policy
  • Security & Strategic Studies

Questions?

In case of inquires you can email our admissions office on admissions@auk.edu.krd
and/or call us on 07517414102/07517414103 (Viber/WhatsApp), during working hours from Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 am – 2:00pm

APPLY NOW

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+964 (0) 751 741 4101

+964 (0) 751 741 4102

info@auk.edu.krd

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