Bachelor in International Relations and Diplomacy

For the student who hopes to one day become a major player in world affairs, this new major offers academic and hands-on training to shape the international issues and events of our time. Students will get a thorough grounding in the art and science of diplomacy. They will also learn about global politics and economics, as well as develop a deep appreciation for cultures around the world. In the process, they will develop a rich understanding of how to engage with the world around us.

The new IRDP major will be taught by members of our internationally renowned faculty including former ambassadors, and by professors who are also working professionals and among the country’s preeminent experts on such global issues as conflict management, security, competitive markets, law, climate change, and human rights. Students will have special opportunities for externships, study abroad, and participation in the Model UN.

International Relations and Diplomacy Fast Facts

• Offered at Dobbs Ferry and Manhattan campuses so students can take advantage of college's connections with the United Nations
• Internationally renowned faculty
• New, modern major

In Class: International Relations and Diplomacy

International Relations and Diplomacy B.S. Curriculum

Students who choose the major concentration in International Relations and Diplomacy must complete:

Major Requirements

Nine courses (27 credits) listed below:

• IRDP/ SOCL 110 World Cultures
• IRDP/ SOCL 252 Globalization
• IRDP/ POLS 372 International Organizations: Fundamentals
• IRDP/ POLS 373 International Organizations: Model UN
• IRDP/ POLS 340 Art & Science of International Relations
• IRDP/ POLS 356 International Negotiation & Diplomacy
• IRDP 420 International Security, Threats, and Conflicts
• IRDP 471 Capstone Project I
• IRDP 472 Capstone Project II

and

Language Requirements: Two courses (6 credits). This requirement may be waived by taking two language courses (6 credits) at another institution, or by demonstrating competency in a foreign language.

Please note: this requirement is in addition to the two language courses (6 credits) that are part of the General Education Requirements.

and

Major Electives

Three courses (9 credits) designated as IRDP major electives may be chosen from this list (other courses may be so designated by permission of the program head):

• HIST 309 Europe Upheaval: 1914-Present
• HIST 332 China in History: Antiquity to Present
• HIST 333 Asia in Revolution
• HIST 336 Africa: Colonialism and Independence
• HIST/ POLS 367 American Foreign Policy
• ENGL 257 Latin American Literature
• ENGL/ HIST 263 Black Atlantic World
• ENGL 352 Contemporary African Literature
• IRDP 295 Contemporary Issues
• SOCL 206 Sociology of Violence
• SOCL 249 Race, Culture & Ethnicity
• INBU 250 International Business
• SPCM/ PSYN 250 Psychology of Communication
• IRDP 441 Model UN II
• IRDP 442 Model UN III
• IRDP 431 Study Abroad I
• IRDB 432 Study Abroad II
• IRDP 461 Internship I
• IRDP 462 Internship II

There is an 18-credit residency requirement in the major concentration of International Relations and Diplomacy.

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Program Outcomes

By the end of this program, students should be able to:

• Analyze situations in international relations by applying an understanding and knowledge about the dynamics of international relations, key factors, and players.
• Identify issues, interests, and options and develop recommended actions and measures by applying knowledge of international affairs.
• Demonstrate effective communication and negotiation skills for various forms of conflict management.
• Demonstrate knowledge of ethics and consider culture, diversity, and justice in the analysis of international situations.

Career Opportunities

Students pursuing this program can move into a variety of fields upon graduation, including business, government, military, non-profit organizations, and international civil service. This well rounded, integrated curriculum, featuring courses that encourage critical thinking and understanding of its practical applications, is greatly needed in today's job market community and the world.

Mercy College is the dynamic, diverse New York City area college whose students are on a personal mission: to get the most out of life by getting the most out of their education.

Founded in 1950, Mercy offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs within five schools: Business, Education, Health and Natural Sciences, Liberal Arts and Social and Behavioral Sciences. Mercy College challenges its faculty and staff to make higher education work for anyone hungry enough to earn a better place in life. With campuses in Dobbs Ferry, Bronx, Manhattan and Yorktown Heights, the vibrancy of the College culture is sustained by a diverse student body from around the region.