The field of International Relations is diverse, and is constantly evolving because of changes in the global landscape. Issues such as globalisation, the role of civil society in global governance, the appearance of new forms of violence, the widening poverty gap and questions of human rights are all forcing students of International Relations to be concerned with long-standing trends as well as emerging realities. As a result, the major in International Relations at Huron University USA in London gives students a range of choices within an overall framework of five key areas of concentration. In this way, while sharing with all participants a core set of principles and themes, students are encouraged to discover their own response to global change, and develop their own particular areas of interest.

International Relations at Huron is a social science major. However, the structure of the program requires students to recognise the links with humanities crucial to provide another perspective on the human condition. The major also asks students to become familiar with a number of regions of the world, as well as requiring particular skill-based courses. The International Relations department is committed to the widest range of learning techniques, including such innovations as computer-assisted learning, simulation and data-set analysis. The department stresses interdisciplinary and multileveled analysis in the search for understanding of the past, present and future of the world system.

The program seeks to make the best use of the unique opportunities offered by Huron's central location in London, one of the core global cities of the international system. We draw on the wealth of international resources within the city for speakers, expert adjunct faculty, networking with international organisations, and internship opportunities.

20 courses (63 credit hours) are required for the major in International Relations. There are five sub-categories from which electives and required courses must be taken.

1 Core Courses

At the heart of the International Relations program is a shared set of themes, theories, terms, and analytical approaches which all students must acquire. These eight courses comprise the core of the major around which students can then add and concentrate to develop their own interests.

2 Functional Courses

These courses take a particular theme or functional issue in International Relations and examine it in depth. Functional courses are offered on the average every two years so that students have a range of choice and opportunity. In addition, if opportunities arise for innovative or unique offerings, new courses may appear on a one-off basis. Students are encouraged to discuss with their advisor early in their program the possibility of developing a concentration of related courses in the functional area (see concentrations below).

3 Area Courses

The department requires students to acquire an in-depth exposure to three areas of the world through the area course offerings. These courses run in a two-year cycle so that students have a wide range of choices. Students are encouraged to discuss with their advisor early in their program any specific interests in regional areas, since concentrations are possible.

4 Skill and Experiental Requirements

The department wants all majors to have both real-life experience and hands on exposure to international relations prior to graduation in order to enhance their skill level and marketability. Thus students are required to have a co-op or work study experience; to participate in a five-week simulation of diplomacy and negotiation; and to achieve a basic computer competency relevant to International Relations.

5 Related Courses at Advanced Level in Humanities

So much of International Relations today involves cultural aspects of the global human condition that the department requires majors to be exposed to humanities at an advanced level. There are no required courses, so students choose offerings in consultation with their advisor.

6 Comprehensive Exam

At the end of the second year, IR majors are required to sit a three-hour comprehensive exam to test their basic knowledge in International Relations. Students will be examined on fundamental terms, concepts and ideas from International Relations. Students must pass this exam in order to graduate in IR.

Note on Electives

It is recommended that students choose their electives wisely, in consultation with their advisor, in order to build a specialty which will supplement or enhance their work in International Relations. For example, students may want to use their open electives to gain a foundation in economics, or to take a number of courses in finance, accounting, art or internet management. The Department strongly recommends that all IR majors take at least macro and micro economics, as well as advanced internet courses.

	Course Requirements
	Concentrations