Degree Overview: Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree in International Relations
Majors Overview December 22, 2013Get information on an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree in international relations and its education requirements, coursework, career choices, and continuing education choices.
A.A. Programs in International Relations
Students enrolled in Associate degree programs in international relations involve themselves in examining world affairs from an interdisciplinary perspective. More particularly, students are taught about the environmental, cultural, political, historical and economical factors affecting many countries. They also examine the manner of operation of various political systems and countries and their mode of cooperation with one another. Community colleges and colleges are among the principal institutions offering international relations associate programs, and they typically offer the program as an Associate of Arts.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma. However, applicants who don’t hold these credentials may have to satisfy special admission guidelines at some schools.
Coursework
Coursework augments core classes in general education with various courses related to social science. Students enrolled in some programs may be allowed to opt for electives that help them focus on a particular area of emphasis including environmental issues, business or history. Some programs require students to take classes in a foreign language. Coursework in Associate degree programs in international relations commonly include:
•World civilizations
•Comparative government
•World geography
•Western civilization
•Global affairs
•Political science
•Economics
•Oral communication
•Cultural anthropology
•Social science statistics
Career Choices
Most job givers seek candidates who hold an advanced degree. However, graduates with an associate degree can aspire for some relevant entry-level positions including careers such as:
•Interpreter
•Flight attendant
•Tour guide
•Travel writer
Continuing Education Choices
Some programs may allow associate degree graduates to transfer credits from the program to a bachelor’s degree program in the field. Those who graduate from the Associate degree program can also seek entry-level jobs into a related field, such as international business or political science. Beyond a bachelor’s degree, students seeking continued education could enroll in master’s or doctoral programs.