Columbia International Relations Major

Hey everyone! I'm highly interested in international relations and I've been looking into Columbia University. Can anyone tell me more about their international relations program, the curriculum, and any study abroad opportunities that they offer for this major? Thanks!

Columbia University offers a highly-regarded international relations program through the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA). However, SIPA is a graduate school, which means there isn't a specific undergraduate international relations major. Instead, as an undergraduate, you can pursue a major in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations.

The curriculum for this concentration includes courses that cover topics like international politics, political economy, political theory, and comparative politics, as well as a range of regional and transnational issues. You'll need to take a few required foundation courses, and then will have the flexibility to build your own program by selecting from a wide array of electives based on your interests.

Columbia University offers a variety of study abroad programs, which can enhance your international relations education. The Center for Undergraduate Global Engagement is a great resource to explore the numerous opportunities available. Some popular programs related to international relations include the Columbia in Paris program at Reid Hall, the Berlin Consortium for German Studies, and the Oxford-Cambridge Programme, among many others. Keep in mind that these programs usually have specific requirements and deadlines, so be sure to check their websites for detailed information.

Additionally, you can get involved in student organizations and internships related to international relations to further enhance your experience and professional network. On campus, you'll find clubs like the Columbia International Relations Council and Association (CIRCA) and Model United Nations, which provide opportunities to engage with diplomacy, debate, and global affairs, and to meet peers who are passionate about the same topics as you.

In summary, while Columbia doesn't offer a specific undergraduate international relations major, you can still pursue a major in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations, which should give you a fantastic foundation in the field, so long as you take advantage of study abroad programs, student organizations, and internships that align with your interests in international relations.

If you decide Columbia is the right place for you to pursue your studies in International Relations, 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 Columbia's school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-columbia-university-essays/. After all, Columbia is a highly selective institution, and the essays are often just the thing that distinguish one talented applicant from another. Best of luck with your college process!