If You Studied One of These 5 Subjects at Undergrad level, an International Relations PGCert Could Be For You

Students from many academic backgrounds can thrive on international relations programmes

Students who pursue PGCerts and other postgraduate qualifications in international relations come from a diverse range of academic backgrounds, often in the social sciences and humanities. Moving into this area of study can be an exciting change that allows you more opportunities to apply your unique knowledge and perspectives to important world issues, all while learning about the key theories and cases of international relations.

If you are interested in studying international relations or pursuing a career in an internationally-oriented organisation or sector, you may be surprised to find that your undergraduate studies are more connected to this goal than you might have thought.

Keep reading for an overview of a few undergraduate subject areas that could indicate that an International Relations PGCert would be an engaging, successful move for you.

1. Political Science is a Sister Discipline of International Relations

Political science is a very common area of study for those who go on to pursue further education and careers in international relations. This is no surprise – in some universities, international relations is even considered a sub-discipline of political science. Political science students are likely to have knowledge of foreign policy, state behaviour, and international politics that would be highly relevant in an International Relations PGCert course.

QMUL Online can help you refine your political science knowledge with an international lens

2. An International Relations PGCert Has Much to Offer Economics Students

The economic components of international relations are likely to pose many interesting areas of inquiry to economics graduates. For example, international relations can include specialised studies on economic development and the international political economy, as well as the diplomatic impact of fiscal and trade policy. An International Relations PGCert can be a great way for individuals with economics training to learn to apply their expertise to the international arena.

3. Law Undergraduates Have Knowledge to Contribute to the International Relations Field

The topics covered in international relations study have many interesting implications for law. With multinational organisations growing, globalisation continuing, and international agreements being drafted every day, students who pursued law or legal studies at undergraduate level are likely to find many areas of interest, and may even find that their existing knowledge adds to their understanding of key issues and topics.

Studying international relations can give you a new perspective on your legal knowledge

4. Geography Can Provide a Useful Perspective for International Relations

Geography is quite a broad discipline, but those who studied social or political geography are likely to find international relations a very stimulating subject area. In particular, pursuing a Postgraduate Certificate in International Relations online can be an excellent opportunity for those with geography training to delve into the spatial components of global security, study transnational movements, or explore the shifting locations of modern geopolitical conflict.

5. An International Relations PGCert Can Build on Development Studies

Those who have completed a degree in Development Studies or International Development will also likely have foundational knowledge that will be useful for further International Relations qualifications. For instance, QMUL Online PGCert students have the option to take a module on Globalisation and the International Political Economy of Development, covering subjects like globalisation, imperialism, and inequality.  

If you studied any of the above subjects during your undergraduate course, or if you simply feel drawn to the problems and opportunities of international relations, then QMUL Online’s PGCert course may have just what you are looking for.

Do you want more information on whether International Relations is a good fit for you?

Contact QMUL Online to learn more about the contents of our International Relations distance learning postgraduate courses.