B.A. in International Relations

In this rapidly changing world, it is not enough to simply know what's going on in one's own town, state, or country. Instead, understanding international affairs and foreign cultures is increasingly important for the educated person and citizen. To more effectively meet the dramatic changes and challenges occurring around the world, Geneseo offers a major in international relations.

The program, coordinated by the Political Science Department, is interdisciplinary; you will take courses from a variety of different academic areas including anthropology, economics, foreign languages, geography, history, management, and sociology.

The International Relations Minor

The minor in international relations is a 24-credit hour program based largely on the same structure of Basic Courses and Elective Tracks as the major.

Academic Opportunities

The faculty in International Relations builds particular expertise and experience in European and Russian affairs, the Middle East, Latin America, South Asia, international organizations, democratization, terrorism and security affairs. Faculty engage students in independent research, lead study abroad programs, and mentor honors theses. Students who excel are eligible for Sigma Iota Rho, the honor society in International Relations. The Department Colloquium series addresses major international issues. Dual degree programs and partnerships are being developed with universities in Russia, Mexico, Turkey, and China.

Co-Curricular Opportunities

Geneseo's Model United Nations Club participates each year in simulations hosted in the fall by the Georgetown University and in the winter by Harvard University. An additional experience is provided for students who want to participate in the Model European Union simulation. In alternating years, this simulation is hosted by a European university and an American university. These simulations give you the opportunity to mix with European students as well as students from other American colleges and universities. In addition, Geneseo sends one student to West Point's annual conference on US foreign policy.

Founded in 1871 as a school for teachers, Geneseo has evolved into one of the premier public liberal arts colleges in the country.

As one of the most selective public colleges in the country, Geneseo is highly ranked in national publications for academic quality and value. The undergraduate research grants program allows a host of students to engage in a wide variety of research with Geneseo faculty members and present papers at regional and national meetings.

Geneseo offers 49 undergraduate majors and an array of dual degree and international study programs, including humanities courses in England and Europe each summer, including our core Humanities courses taught in England and Europe each summer.

Student activities include NCAA Division III athletics (2005 national championship in women’s cross-country); 200 student organizations (including 11 student multicultural groups); an active student government; community service opportunities; and a variety of distinguished speakers and cultural events each year. The College also offers a nationally award-winning student leadership program and a nationally award-winning community/college collaboration dedicated to rebuilding areas devastated by Hurricane Katrina.