Overview

The International Affairs programme at the University of Colorado at Boulder provides students with the analytical tools necessary to understand and influence the modern global landscape. By integrating diverse perspectives from history, economics, and political science, the curriculum prepares graduates to navigate an increasingly interdependent world. Students engage in rigorous academic study while developing the practical skills required for international leadership.

Why International Affairs at the University of Colorado at Boulder?

Choosing this programme means joining a top-tier public research institution ranked No. 46 in the country. The university boasts a prestigious academic environment with five Nobel Laureates and a commitment to sustainability as a Top Green College. Students benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, learning from acclaimed faculty across various departments to gain a holistic view of global issues.

The programme emphasises practical experience through dedicated internship opportunities and off-campus learning. Whether through study abroad, the CU in D.C. initiative, or specialised internships, students apply their classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. Additionally, six optional certificate specialisations, such as Arctic Studies or Global Public Health, allow for tailored expertise in niche global sectors.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 46848 per year
National fee: USD 44748 per year
Local fee: USD 14606 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on functional areas and regional concentrations, requiring students to achieve third-year university-level language proficiency. Modules may include:

Development and Culture
International Economics, Business and Political Economy
Political Geography, International Security and Foreign Policy
International Institutions, Rights and Norms
Africa/Middle East Regional Studies
Asia Regional Studies
Europe/Eurasia Regional Studies
Latin America Regional Studies
International Affairs Internship

Careers with International Affairs

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse roles in the 21st-century global economy, with a median salary of $56,259 within five years of finishing the programme. Many alumni secure positions in federal government organisations, including the State Department, Defense Department, CIA, and NSA. The degree also opens doors to careers in international journalism, non-profit management, and the Peace Corps.

Common professional roles for graduates include:

Foreign Service Officer or Diplomat
Policy Analyst
Intelligence Specialist
International Journalist
Corporate Consultant for Multinational Corporations

The programme has a proven track record of success, with alumni serving as U.S. Ambassadors, United Nations Protection Officers, and CEOs of international marketing firms.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Global Issues and International Affairs

International Relations

Beginning Foreign Language

Economics/Methods

Intermediate Foreign Language

Foreign Language

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Boulder, United States

Disciplines

International Relations View 665 other Bachelors in International Relations in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Application

Application fee ($65 for domestic applicants, $70 for international applicants

Personal Essay (required, 250–650 words)

Letter of recommendation

High school or secondary school transcripts

In addition to the general admission requirements, all international applicants are required to meet a minimum standard of English proficiency.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

46848 USD / year

≈ 46848 USD / year
Out-of-State

44748 USD / year

≈ 44748 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14606 USD / year

≈ 14606 USD / year

Living costs

Boulder

United States

950 - 1350 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for International Affairs.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Boulder

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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