7 Best Study Abroad Programs for International Relations

FIE: Foundation for International Education So, you’ve chosen to study international relations abroad and now you’re deciding where! The answer to that “where” question you’ve been asking is crucial. This opportunity will provide you with new and exciting developments in your education on an INTERNATIONAL SCALE. 

Finding the best study abroad programs for international relations has the power to shape your future career!

You’ll be discussing this experience not only with your friends and family, but with future employers as you advocate for yourself in the workforce. You might even leverage new ideas in your future career based on what you have learned abroad.

The good news is that, to make your life that much easier, we’ve selected some of the best study abroad programs for international relations (by providers like FIE, IES, and CIEE) based on their unique features and outstanding program reviews written by past participants. Take a look!

7 stellar study abroad programs for international relations

1. FIE – Conflict and the Struggle for Peace: Explorations in Ireland and the Middle East — 10

If you’re deciding between locations, this program allows you to study international relations abroad while traveling to TWO historical cities, Dublin and Amman. You’ll be able to study peace and conflict from a post-colonial nation, as well as the management and conflict resolution during the Arab-Israeli conflict. Also, your time in Amman will not just focus on this conflict but will give you an understanding of Arab culture and Middle Eastern politics. 

• Where? Ireland + Jordan
• When? Summer semester
• Learn more about FIE

2. IES Abroad European Union — 9.24

If international relations is your minor, this program allows you to study politics, economics, and business alongside international relations majors; and if this field is your major, you can fully immerse yourself in these unique classes. You’ll have the opportunity to visit numerous cities inside and outside of the EU, including a visit to the European Parliament, where you can discuss issues with EU officials. If you’re interested in studying Europe in depth, this program is definitely for you. 

• Where? Freiburg, Multiple Countries
• When? Fall and Spring
• Learn more about IES

3. International Relations in Haifa, Israel — 9.57

If you choose to study international relations abroad with CIEE’s program in Israel, you have the opportunity to participate in two very UNIQUE features: special honors programs in peace and conflict studies and an internship in one of the many NGOs and local organizations. The university also provides cutting edge research centers for ethnic and religious studies. If you are looking for more hands-on experience in international relations, this would be an awesome choice for you.

• Where? Haifa
• When? Academic Year, Fall, and Spring
• Learn more about CIEE

4. Rwanda: Post Genocide Restoration and Peacebuilding — 9

If you study in Rwanda, you’ll be examining the origin, impact, and challenges of post-conflict resolution after the 1994 genocide, one of the most horrific conflicts in history. Studying international relations abroad in Kigali will provide insight into how foreign nations handled the Rwanda Genocide and the interrelations between peace, justice, reconciliation, and forgiveness. This program also provides insight into national and international involvement in genocide prevention and peacebuilding. 

• Where? Kigali, Rwanda + Uganda Rural areas
• When? Year-round, Fall, Spring 
• Learn more about SIT

5. Multi-Country Summer Europe: 10 Cities in 5 weeks — 9.7

When you read through the reviews of this program, you’ll understand why it made the list of best study abroad programs for international relations. It has a concentration on European countries which will provide you with insight into Europe’s relationship with other nations and the impact it has had in other countries. If Europe’s influence on other nations piques your interest, this would be an impactful program to participate in.

• Where? Multiple Countries 
• When? Summer
• Learn more about Forum-Nexus Study Abroad

6. TEAN: Singapore Management University — 10

Study international relations abroad at one of Asia’s top business schools and brag about it on your resume! If you’re interested in learning about Asia and the influence of Asian countries on international relations, this program is calling your name. You will have the opportunity to learn about the politics, language, and business development of several countries on the continent. Plus, you’ll be located in the center of Singapore with the ability to travel to other cities and countries nearby. 

• Where? Singapore
• When? Academic Year, Fall, Spring 
• Learn more about The Education Abroad Network

7. USAC The Netherlands: Maastricht - Undergraduate Course Work — 9

USAC’s program in the Netherlands has landed itself on the list for best study abroad programs for international relations because of the additional experiences offered outside of the classroom. Not only will you be living in the oldest city in the Netherlands, but you’ll have field trips, museum visits, and seminars that will be coupled with your classroom experiences. Not to mention you’ll be able to hop on a train and visit other historical cities (such as Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam!) throughout your time abroad.

• Where? Maastricht
• When? Academic Year, Fall, Spring, Summer
• Learn more about USAC

Ready to study international relations abroad?

Your perfect program is out there.

Studying international relations abroad will provide you with an exciting and stimulating academic experience — not to mention a new home, new cuisine, and a new daily routine. You’ll be pushed out of your comfort zone, in and outside the classroom, which will contribute to rapid self-growth.

Not only will you grow as an individual, but this experience will set you apart from other young professionals in your field. When it comes time to send in job applications, you’ll have experiences that will add impressive talking points to your interviews.

Whether you’re learning about the Arab-Israeli conflict through FIE, or grabbing some street food after a long day learning about the complexities of Asian politics, you’ll be living out your international relations focus. So enjoy every moment, and learn as much as you can. You got this!

View ALL International Relations Study Abroad Programs

This article was written with support from the Foundation for International Education (FIE). With over two decades of experience in international education, FIE provides comprehensive, customized study abroad programs in Amman, London, and Dublin.