International relations at Harvard?

Hello! I'm a high school junior exploring college options and I'm really interested in studying International Relations. I was wondering if anyone here has experience with Harvard's IR program? I'd like to know about the quality of the program, the types of courses they offer, and any unique opportunities available there. Thanks in advance!

Hey there! Harvard doesn't actually have a specific "International Relations" major within the undergraduate college, but you can study international relations through their Government concentration. The Government concentration covers topics like international relations, comparative politics, political theory, and American politics both broadly and deeply. Within the Government concentration, you can select elective courses tailored to your interests in international relations.

Harvard's faculty in this area is renowned and well-respected, so you can expect high-quality courses and great support from professors. You'll find courses on global governance, international security, international political economy, human rights, diplomacy, and much more. You can check out Harvard's course catalog for the Government department to get a feel for the specific courses they offer.

In terms of unique opportunities, Harvard boasts numerous research centers and think tanks where undergraduates can get involved, such as the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs, and the Institute of Politics (IOP). These centers often host seminars, conferences, and distinguished guest speakers, which can greatly enhance your learning experience, and help you make connections that could open doors for you in the world of international relations down the line.

Additionally, as a Government concentrator, you could pursue internships and summer programs related to international relations. Harvard students have access to various funding sources for travel and research, like the David Rockefeller International Experience Grant, which supports students engaging in summer abroad experiences and internships.

Lastly, studying at Harvard also means being part of a highly diverse and globally connected student body, so you'll undoubtedly have the chance to learn firsthand from your peers' international experiences and perspectives.

Overall, Harvard offers strong coursework and unique opportunities in international relations through its Government concentration, so you're sure to receive an excellent education. Additionally, Harvard's academic programs as a whole are incredibly strong, so you'd also be able to explore interdisciplinary work, by drawing connections between your passion for international relations and your other interests, if you so desire.

If you decide Harvard is the place for you, and are looking for tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle each of their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-harvard-university-essays/. After all, Harvard is one of the most selective schools in the world, and at such institutions, the essays are often just the thing that distinguish one talented applicant from another.

Good luck with your college search!