Frequently Asked Questions

Political Science/International Relations

What are some of the professional organizations may I join ?

The American Political Science Association (www.apsanet.org), International Studies Association (www.isanet.org) or any of the professional associations for a given area of the world that may interest you, such as the African Studies Association or the Asian Studies Association.

What are some skills/aptitudes required for the IR major?

You need to be a good student since the field is very competitive. You need to be able to write clearly and to do documentary research. It helps to know at least one language in addition to English.

What are some of the job opportunities can I look for now and later for my career in International Relations?

Here are a few possibilities:

• Teaching at various levels
• Working for think tanks (defense, foreign policy, development)
• Working on non-governmental organizations
• Working in marketing or management for the private sector
• Companies that operate abroad and for foreign-owned companies that operates in the U.S.
• Working for government in the Foreign Service (Department of State, cultural affairs (USIA), the intelligence community, the international development agencies (USAID)
• Working for international organizations such as the UN, World Bank, etc.

Departmental Features

Study Abroad

China (Suzhou); Germany; France (Clermont) and other countries can be arranged through the Center for International Services and Programs.

Evening Program

The Department offers evening programs for Political Science majors and minors. Required core courses are offered at night at least once during the regular academic year, and intermediate and advanced level courses are offered frequently enough to allow a student to complete the degree over a four-year period.

Internships

The Department of Political Science offers internships for political science majors, political science majors with public service specialization, and international relations majors.

Services Courses

The Department of Political Science offers a large number of courses that fulfill University Curricular Requirements.

Awards

Distinguished Student Award, Distinguished Senior Seminar Paper Award, Outstanding Student Intern Award, Membership in Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society.

What's NEW

Model UN: Politics and Diplomacy

Cleveland State Model U.N. and N.A.T.O. Are you a political science, international relations or history major? Or are you interested in public policy, diplomacy, or current events? Do you like to discuss, research and debate? Then, CSU Model UN is for you! Click here for more information.

Free Lectures + Exciting Topics + National Expert

Cleveland State has partnered with the City Club of Cleveland, CLASS, and donors Alvin and Laura Siegal to provide STUDENTS with FREE admission to the Friday noon City Club Lecture/Lunches. Through the City is Our Campus Ticket Program, this partnership engages students with national experts and Cleveland professionals beyond the formal classroom.

Up to four students can attend each luncheon lecture while spaces last. Simply identify the lecture that most interests you, register to attend ONLINE, receive confirmation of your reservation and instructions, and ATTEND at the City Club downtown. Lectures are added regularly, so check the site often for scheduled events. Leadership Points also available for students pursuing Leadership Certification. REGISTER ONLINE at: http://mycsu.csuohio.edu/studentlife/tickets/lectures.html

For more information, contact the Department of Student Life at 216-687-2048.