International Relations and Organisations Leiden University

Overview

Are you interested in international organisations, diplomacy, and issues of peace and security? The BSc specialisation in International Relations and Organisations is just right for you.

You choose International Relations and Organisations (IRO) because you are fascinated by global affairs and the dynamics of international cooperation and conflict, and you prefer in-depth analysis over unsubstantiated opinion. Your open mind, inquisitive and critical attitude, as well as your willingness to invest in acquiring new knowledge and skills, makes that you fit in perfectly with your fellow IRO-students.

Studying IRO means understanding the real story behind today's headlines; working with excellent academic teachers and researchers; developing skills in research, writing and presenting; and being part of an international classroom and community.

IRO is a 3-year BSc degree programme and part of Leiden University's Political Science curriculum. It is taught in The Hague, the city in which politics and international relations converge. The Hague is the third UN city and host to many international organisations, embassies, and NGOs. The city houses many nationalities; as an internationally oriented student you will feel at home.

Preparing you for a wide range of interesting MSc options, IRO is an excellent first step in your international career.

What you will learn

As a graduate from the programme Political Science: International Relations and Organisations (BSc) you possess knowledge and understanding of the discipline of Political Science and you have been introduced to doing to original research and the frontiers of the discipline.

You have a grasp of the key concepts in the study of political phenomena such as politics, the state, political systems, democracy, power, influence, policy, political culture, political behaviour, international regimes, international organisations, political conflict and conflict resolution. You have acquainted yourself with theories, models and approaches in the analysis of political phenomena at national and international level. Also, you have a basis in the methodology and techniques of political science research, statistical analysis and ethical aspects of scholarship.

You are able to independently design and conduct research, report about the outcomes. You are well prepared for further studying Political Science and related subjects at master's level in the Netherlands or abroad.

Career prospects

Studying International Relations and Organisations (IRO) you are building a foundation that will benefit you in your future career, whether as part of an international organisation, or as a journalist or consultant.

Typically, students with a bachelor's and master's degree in international relations or political science find jobs in the European Union, the United Nations, government, a multinational or non-governmental organisation, international organisations, or national organisations.

Most of our alumni work in policy-making, strategic analysis, research and education, management, consultancy, diplomacy, administration, and politics.

Examples of jobs

• Journalist
• Manager
• Diplomat
• Politician
• Consultant
• Policy officer
• Instructor
• Researcher

Accreditation

Accredited by NVAO, the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders.