To pursue a Bachelor's degree in International Relations (IR), there are certain essential qualifications and requirements that you need to meet. While these can vary slightly depending on the university or institution, the general qualifications are as follows:
International Relations Course Syllabus 2024: Semester Subjects, Electives, Books, Specializations
Updated on Nov 7, 2022 11:41 IST
Shruti TiwariContent writer
International Relations is the analysis of the legal, economic, and political issues on an international level. The perspectives regarding humanity, development, poverty, cross-border activities, etc., are discussed in the subjects included in its syllabus. The students who pursue International Relations courses can seek jobs in government organisations that handle international affairs and relations. Their duties would be to ensure good relations and harmony between nations while working on areas like the environment, trade, security, economy, politics, human rights, etc.
Table of Contents
- International Relations Syllabus - Important Facts
- List of Subjects in International Relations
- 2.1 Core Subjects of International Relations Syllabus
- 2.2 Elective Subjects of International Relations Syllabus
- Detailed Syllabus of International Relations
- Specialisations Offered in International Relations
- Books and Authors Related to International Relations
- Entrance Exams for International Relations
- International Relations Syllabus: Distance Programme
- Top Colleges for International Relations
- FAQs on International Relations Syllabus
International Relations Syllabus - Important Facts
- Course Duration: International Relations courses belong to the Art stream and come under the Humanity discipline. One can pursue graduate-level and postgraduate-level courses in this field. The graduate-level courses are usually three-year courses, and their syllabuses are divided into six semesters. The PG courses are two-year courses, and their syllabuses are divided into four semesters.
- Eligibility criteria: The students need to complete their 10+2 studies with a minimum of 45 per cent marks for the graduate-level courses. For the postgraduate level courses, the students need to complete their graduation in any field related to Humanities and must score at least 50 per cent marks. The postgraduates can also seek admission to MPhil and PhD in political science or other related fields.
- Scope in India: There are plenty of jobs for those with a degree in International Relations. However, jobs in foreign ministry, embassies and other government organisations are mainly offered to those with a master’s degree in International Relations. They primarily serve the external affairs departments and offices assigned with the task of overseeing international relations. The degree holders can work as political journalists or become international relations analysts.
- Change in the syllabus: As International Relations is a relatively new academic discipline, there haven’t been many changes in its syllabus over the years.
- Exam pattern: End-semester exams of International Relations courses are conducted to evaluate the students' proficiency. These exams consist of theoretical papers where 80 per cent is reserved for the theory, whereas 20 per cent is reserved for international assessment done by the college.
- Difference in the syllabus between top colleges/universities: The syllabus for International Relations can vary for different colleges and universities. However, the focus areas of the subjects remain the same, that is, to guide students to develop ways to maintain international peace and cross-border security.
List of Subjects in International Relations
Since the purpose of International Relations courses is to equip the student with latest knowledge and training in areas and functions of the field, the course syllabus includes all the topics and subjects, which provide knowledge for the same. Check below International Relations syllabus.
Core Subjects of International Relations Syllabus
Given below is the list of core subjects included in International Relations syllabus and brief description for the same.
| Subject Title |
Subject Details |
|---|---|
| Introduction to International Relations |
This subject discusses the scope of International Relations and the theories that revolve around it. Concepts related to area of studies, power politics, etc. are also included in it. |
| International Law and International Relations |
The development of International Law, difference between State and International Law, contemporary issues in International Law, India and international conventions, maritime law and outer space, etc. are covered in it. |
| Trends and Issues in Contemporary World Affairs |
The Cold War, changing patterns of World Order, globalisation, prominent contemporary issues, etc. are discussed in this subject. |
| Conflict Resolution and Peace Building |
It includes the definition of conflict and levels of conflict in the global system. The definition of peace and how to resolve conflicts at international level are also included in it. |
| India’s Foreign Policy |
The mission, objectives, and factors that influence the foreign policy of India are discussed in this subject. It also highlights issues in India’s Foreign Policy and also discusses its relation with major countries and areas. |
| Cultural Diplomacy |
History of cultural diplomacy, its methods, India’s Cultural Diplomacy, and related case studies are the focus areas of this subject. |
| West Asia in World Affairs |
It focuses on the society in West Asia, political issues in West Asia, non-regional actions in the region, conflicts, and related topics. |
| Russia in World Affairs |
Formation and fall of USSR, Emergence of Russia and CIS, Russia’s Foreign Policy, issues of Russia, the current status of Russia in World Foreign Policy, etc. are discussed here. |
| Political System in South Asia |
Types of governments in South Asia, conflicts and issues in the region, economy and development of the region, South Asia and its relation with external powers are the focus areas of this subject. |
| Central Asia in World Affairs |
The dominance of Islam in Central Asia, civil wars, social and political issues in the region, regional security issues, economic development and foreign policy of the region, relations of Central Asia with External Powers, etc. are its key focus areas. |
| Human Rights and International Relations |
Historical development of Human Rights, UN Charter of Human Rights, Challenges of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, and other key topics are discussed in it. |
Elective Subjects of International Relations Syllabus
Given below is the list of elective subjects included in International Relations syllabus and brief description for the same.
| Subject Title |
Subject Details |
|---|---|
| UN and World Peace |
The role of the UN when it comes to world peace is discussed in this subject. The missions and humanitarian initiatives taken by the UN are also covered in it. |
| Human Rights |
The basics of human rights are discussed in it. It also covers topics like Human Rights Violation, institutions setup to tackle issues pertaining to Human Rights, and related concepts. |
| Public Policy |
The basic concepts of Public Policy are discussed in this subject. Policy analysis, evaluation of public policy, etc. are also included in it. |
| India and International Organisations |
The major international organisations and their structure and functions are discussed in it. Moreover, the participation of India in these organisations and the role of India as a country are also explained. |
| Global Migration |
The history, issues, and theories related to Global Migration are included in it. It also talks on the refugee crisis and helps the students to understand the impact of global migration on culture and identity of a nation. |
| Media and Politics |
The roles and responsibilities of the media when it comes to International Relations are discussed in this subject. It also highlights the issues raised due to the intersection between politics and media. |
| Politics of Developing Areas |
The politics of developing countries and regions of the world is discussed through this subject. It also discusses the politics of third world nations and the impact of globalisation on these nations. |
Detailed Syllabus of International Relations
The International Relations syllabus might vary for each college or institution. Similarly, different courses include different syllabus. An overview of the detailed syllabus for BA in International Relations is given in the below table:
| Semester |
Core/ Elective |
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 |
Core |
Introduction to Political Science |
Meaning and elements of the State, its origin, and functions are discussed in this subject. It also talks on concepts like law, liberty, justice, rights and duties, equality, etc. |
| Semester 1 |
Core |
English I & II |
The students have to study two papers in English to strengthen their listening, speaking, and writing skills in English. |
| Semester 1 |
Elective |
Hindi I |
It is an optional language for the students who want to expand their linguistic skills in Hindi. |
| Semester 1 |
Elective |
Indian Studies Paper 1 |
The study of India and its issues along with its role in International Relations are discussed here. |
| Semester 1 |
Elective |
Foreign Language Paper 1 (French or German) |
The students can learn French or German as an optional paper in this semester. |
| Semester 2 |
Core |
Environmental Studies |
Social issues and its relation with the environment, environmental pollution and its types, ecosystems, biodiversity, and related concepts are discussed here. |
| Semester 2 |
Elective |
Foreign Language Paper 2 (French or German) |
The students can further study French or German languages in this semester. |
| Semester 2 |
Core |
English III & IV |
The advanced knowledge of the English Language is imparted this semester. |
| Semester 2 |
Elective |
Hindi II |
The advanced knowledge of the Hindi Language is imparted this semester. |
| Semester 3 |
Core |
World Since 1648 |
World Prior World War 1, Industrial Revolution, Expansion of Europe, First and Second World War, The Cold War Era, etc. are discussed in this subject. |
| Semester 3 |
Core |
Introduction to International Relations |
The meaning of international relations and its scope along with concepts like national interest, ideology, power, etc. are explained in it. |
| Semester 4 |
Core |
Fundamentals of Research Methodology |
Basics in Social Science Research, Research Design, Data Collection methods, etc. are covered in this subject. |
| Semester 4 |
Core |
Indian Political System |
Making of Indian Constitution, Directive Principles of State Policy, Indian Federalism, Working of the Political System, etc. are covered in it. |
| Semester 5 |
Core |
Introduction to International Political Economy |
Meaning of Global Political Economy, major tools of International Economics, Globalisation and IPE, etc. are discussed in it. |
| Semester 5 |
Core |
India’s Foreign Policy |
It talks on the Indian Foreign Policy and its issues. It also discusses various aspects of the foreign policy of India. |
| Semester 5 |
Core |
Diplomacy |
Meaning of diplomacy and its role in maintaining International Relations are discussed in this subject. |
| Semester 5 |
Core |
Comparative Politics |
Meaning, nature, and scope of comparative politics, definition of political system, political parties and pressure groups, etc. are explained in this subject. |
| Semester 5 |
Elective |
UN and World Peace |
Introduction to the UN, UN and International Peace and Security, UN and Social Development, UN and Human Rights, etc. are included in this subject. |
| Semester 5 |
Elective |
Human Rights |
The meaning of Human rights, issues affecting human rights, organisations and departments that deal with these issues, etc. are covered. |
| Semester 5 |
Elective |
Political Geography |
The meaning of Political Geography, Human Geography, Power Politics, Nationalism, etc. are discussed here. |
| Semester 5 |
Elective |
Public Policy |
Basic concepts and theories related to Public Policy, Public Policy Analysis, Policy Making in India, Evaluation of Public Policy are the focus areas of this subject. |
| Semester 6 |
Core |
Introduction to International Law |
Concept and nature of International Law, Essentials of Statehood, Peaceful Settlements of Disputes, Laws of Peace, Laws of Force, etc. are covered here. |
| Semester 6 |
Core |
International Security |
Introduction to International Security and its tools, International Security in third world countries, etc. are discussed here. |
| Semester 6 |
Core |
Issues in International Politics |
International Politics post the Cold War era, Global Governance, Contemporary Issues in World Politics, etc. are explained. |
| Semester 6 |
Elective |
India and International Organisations |
The role of India in International Organisations that work towards peace, security, and human rights are explained in it. |
| Semester 6 |
Elective |
Global Migration |
The impact of Global Migration on the culture of a country and various issues and crises related to Global Migration are included. |
| Semester 6 |
Elective |
Media and Politics |
The role of media in International Relations and issues raised due to the links between political parties and media houses are highlighted here. |
Specialisations Offered in International Relations
International Relations itself is a specialisation offered in Political Science course. Therefore, there aren’t any further specialisations in this subject.
Books and Authors Related to International Relations
The students can refer to these reference books to get deeper perspective and insights on the subjects included in the International Relations courses:
| Subject |
Book Title |
Author |
Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science |
Foundations of the Political Science |
Peter Harris |
Basic concepts, meaning, and scope of Political Science are discussed in this book. |
| International Relations |
Understanding International Relations |
Chris Brown and Kirsten Ainley |
The basic idea of International Relations and its role in maintaining global peace and security are discussed. |
| Fundamentals in Research Methodology |
Social Research Methods |
Alan Bryman |
The meaning, data collection methods, issues in data collection, data interpretation, etc. are highlighted. |
| Indian Political System |
Introduction to the Constitution of India |
Brij Kishore Sharma |
The emergence of the India Constitution and its role in maintaining equality, social justice, human rights, etc. in the country is explained here. |
| International Political Economy |
A Beginner’s Guide to the World Economy |
Randy Charles Epping |
The basics of the World Economy and its role in the development of IR are explained. |
| India’s Foreign Policy |
Foreign Policy of India |
Khanna V. N. |
The foreign policy of India and the issues included in it are discussed in this book. |
| Diplomacy |
Non-State Actors in Economic Diplomacy |
Kate McDonald and Stephen Woolcock |
How non-regional powers influence the economic diplomacy of a region is explained in it. |
| Comparative Politics |
Introduction to Political Analysis |
Apter and David. A. |
Different tools used for analysing political affairs are explained in this book. |
| UN and World Peace |
Reforming the United Stations |
Nazrul Islam |
The issues in the United Nations and how they can be reformed are discussed. |
| Human Rights |
Contemporary Human Rights Ideas |
B. G. Ramcharan |
The formation of new ideas on Human Rights and its development are discussed in it. |
Entrance Exams for International Relations
Most universities and colleges offer entry to the students on merit basis. However, the entrance exams are usually required for the master’s degree courses in International Relations. Some of the top entrance exams for International Relations courses are listed below:
The main subjects that the students need to study for clearing these International Relations entrance tests are Political Science, Indian Foreign Policy, Current International Affairs, and History and Economics. These tests are objective type computer-based tests.
International Relations Syllabus: Distance Programme
There are several universities and colleges that offer distance programmes in International Studies. The benefit of taking up the distance or online course in International Relations is that it allows the students to pursue it along with a regular course or employement. Moreover, the affordable fee structure and flexible schedule of these courses are other advantages of online courses.
The syllabus of the distance programmes is identical to that of the regular courses. The subjects like Human Rights, International Politics, Constitution of India, Introduction to International Relations, etc. are the focus areas of the syllabus. The best colleges that offer distance programme in International Relations are listed below:
- NMIMS Global
- Chandigarh University
- Annamalai University
- The Global Open University
- Vinayaka Mission Research Foundation
Top Colleges for International Relations
The top colleges/institutions for International Relations on the basis of teaching facilities, infrastructure, and placement opportunities are given in the below table:
| Sr. No. |
College/Institute/University |
Course/Syllabus Links |
|---|---|---|
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| 2 |
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| 3 |
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| 5 |
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| 6 |
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| 7 |
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Also Read: International Relations Colleges in India
FAQs on International Relations Syllabus
Q: Which are the main objectives of the International Relations courses?
A: The main objectives of the International Relations courses are highlighted below:
- To make students understand the meaning and scope of IR
- To make them aware of the ongoing geopolitical issues
- To make them aware of the human rights violation worldwide
- To motivate them to find ways to maintain peace and security globally
Q: Which are the key objectives of the Comparative Politics subject?
A: The key objectives of the Comparative Politics subject are listed below:
- To enable students to compare power structures among different political systems
- To enable students to grasp development of different countries
- To help students undertake research in Area Studies
- To empower students to participate in the political systems throughout the world
Q: What are the course outcomes of the Diplomacy subject?
A: The course outcomes of the Diplomacy subject are mentioned below:
- To help students grasp the development of diplomatic processes in the ancient and modern eras
- To help students understand the fundamentals of modern diplomacy
- To enable students understand the role of diplomacy in maintaining foreign relations
- To provide with a wide view of the ongoing global affairs
Q: What are the course outcomes of India’s Foreign Policy subject?
A: The course outcomes of the India’s Foreign Policy subject are explained below:
- To enable students to grasp the issues in making foreign policy
- Understanding of foreign policymaking in India
- To help the students understand the practises involved in foreign policymaking
- To understand the processes and factors involved in policy making
Q: Which topics are covered in the Introduction to International Political Economy?
A: The topics that are covered in the Introduction to International Political Economy are listed below:
- IPE and Development
- Globalisation and IPE
- Introduction to International Political Economy
- Major tools of International Economics and Political Science
- Perspectives of IPE
- IPE and Global Political Economy
- Production Possibility Frontier
- Dependency and World System Theory
Q: Which are the course outcomes of the Introduction to International Relations Theory?
A: The course outcomes of the Introduction to International Relations Theory are mentioned below:
- To understand the basics of contemporary IR theory
- Understanding and judging international politics
- Discussing ideas and concepts related to Political Theory
- Different frameworks for understanding International Politics
Q: Which are the course outcomes of the World Since 1648 subject?
A: The course outcomes of the World Since 1648 subject are explained below:
- Analysing the cause and effects of the first World War
- Analysing the cause and effects of the second World War
- Evaluating the post-cold war world order and decolonization process
- Rise of colonialism via industrial revolution
- Understanding different revolutions and their contribution to International Relations
Q: What does the syllabus of Environmental Studies include?
A: The syllabus of Environmental Studies includes these topics:
- Natural Resources - renewable and non-renewable resources
- Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental Studies
- Ecosystems
- Biodiversity and its conservation
- Environmental Pollution
- Social Issues and the Environment
- Human Population and the Environment
- Field Work
Q: What are the course outcomes of the Introduction to Political Science subject?
A: The course outcomes of the Introduction to Political Science subject are mentioned below:
- To understand the basics of political science
- To understand political terms like state, equality, justice, duties and rights, etc.
- To understand the connectedness between political science and other disciplines
- To make the students aware of the rights and duties of the citizens
- To study the functions of government
Q: What does the syllabus of the Introduction to Political Science subject include?
A: The syllabus of the Introduction to Political Science subject includes the following topics:
- Meaning and elements of the State
- Theories related to the Origin of the State
- Nature and Functions of the State
- Structure and various types of government
- Political Culture, Political Socialisation, Political Development and other major concepts
- Basic concepts like law, liberty, justice, equality, etc.
Q: Which topics does the subject Human Rights and International Relations include?
A: The subject Human Rights and International Relations includes these topics:
- Historical Development of Human Rights
- UN Declaration of Human Rights
- Challenges of Human Rights
- Development of Human Rights
- Human Rights in India
- Constitutional Provisions for protection of human rights
- Human Rights Commission
- Judiciary and Human Rights
Q: Which topics does the subject Central Asia in World Affairs include?
A: The subject Central Asia in World Affairs includes these topics:
- Society and Politics in Modern Central Asia
- State and Regional Security in Central Asia
- Economic Development in Central Asia
- Foreign Policy of Central Asian States
- Central Asia and the External World
- Recent Industrial performance in the region
- Politics of modernisation in Central Asia
- Multiple facets of the state
Q: Which concepts does the Political System in South Asia subject cover?
A: The concepts covered by the Political System in South Asia include:
- Introduction to South Asia’s geography, economic significance, and colonial heritage
- Forms of Government in South Asia
- Issues and Conflict in South Asia
- Economy and development in the region
- South Asia and External Powers
Q: What are the course outcomes of the Russia in World Affairs subject?
A: The course outcomes of the Russia in World Affairs subject are iterated below:
- Understanding the history, civilisation, and culture of Russia
- Analysing Russia’s foreign policy
- Understanding global and regional issues of Russia
- Analysing the significance of non-government institutions in Russia when it comes to making decisions
Popular Exams
Following are the top exams for International Relations. Students interested in pursuing a career on International Relations, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.
Jun '24 | CT SET 2024 Counselling Start TENTATIVE |
Jun '24 | CT SET 2024 Result TENTATIVE |
21 Feb ' 25 | SAT Registration Deadline for March Test |
25 Feb ' 25 | SAT Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation, a... |
Feb '25 - Apr '25 | CUET 2025 Application Process TENTATIVE |
Apr '25 | CUET UG 2025 Application Form Correction TENTATIVE |
21 Sep ' 24 | Second Phase of Counselling Begins |
20 Sep ' 24 | Reporting to Respective Colleges |
Most Popular Courses
Following are the most popular International Relations courses, based on alumni reviews. Explore these reviews to choose the best course in International Relations.
Popular International Relations Colleges in India
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Popular International Relations PG Courses
Following are the most popular International Relations PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.
PG Courses
- M.A.
46 Colleges
- PG Diploma
2 Colleges
- MBA/PGDM
1 College
Popular International Relations UG Courses
Following are the most popular International Relations UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.
UG Courses
- B.A.
25 Colleges
- B.A. (Hons)
1 College
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a month ago
Yes, International relations draws from Political science, Economics, History, Sociology, and Law, making it highly interdisciplinary. It encompasses a wide range of subfields, including Diplomacy, Foreign Policy, Conflict Resolution, Globalization and international law, and The study of negotiation
S
SHRUTI TIWARI
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month ago
Hey, thankyou for raising your query, I would like to answer your question here, For a Master's degree in International Relation you typically need a Bachelor's degree in Political Science, History, Econmics or any similar fields that are often preferred to taking admissions. Also Most universities
S
SHRUTI TIWARI
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month ago
To be eligible for a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in International Relations (IR) in India, or political Science with a focus on International relations you typically need to have passed a similar exam from any stream with 50% from a recognised board.
Some colleges may also conduct entrance exams as part
S
SHRUTI TIWARI
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month ago
Look, IR which is International relations does cover various topics in their course, it's a vast subject that is full of diversities, here you can learn about Foreign policy, international security, global governance and international law, human rights, trades and also about environmental issues.
S
SHRUTI TIWARI
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
External powers like the US and China influence bilateral relations in South Asia in many ways, including:
Trade: The EU supports trade facilitation and harmonization of standards in the region.
Cooperation: The EU encourages regional integration through the South Asian Association for Regional Co
R
ROHIT Rohit
Contributor-Level 10
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