You want to make a real difference in the world — have a job with meaning and purpose — but as you think ahead toward what it will take to get started in the field of international relations, you realize you could use a bit of help. Find out how to get a job in international relations and affairs and what you need to succeed.
Discover top tips to help you in your career search, including advice from experts. Plus, see what recruiters are looking for when evaluating candidates, including university degrees, experience, connections, and more.
Step 1: Attend School in a Global Affairs Hub
Attending a university situated in the heart of a thriving international relations community is crucial for a quality education and future career prospects, whether you want to explore foreign policy, modern-day challenges, or the interconnectedness of global communities.
Washington, D.C. is one such location. The U.S. capital offers a rich history, features diverse cultures, and is a central point for numerous government agencies, industry professionals, and distinguished organizations.
Step 2: Earn a Master’s Degree from a Reputable University
For most careers in foreign affairs and relations, a master’s degree is often a minimum employment requirement. To set yourself apart from other candidates who hold a master’s degree, consider attending a graduate school with a prestigious history and reputation in the industry. Seek out institutions with distinguished faculty, research centers, institutes, and publications related to the field.
Additionally, the master’s degree program you consider should provide an interdisciplinary education with customized paths allowing you to specialize in an area aligned with your international relations career goals.
💡 Top Tips
What Are the Top Skills Employers Look for When Reviewing Resumes of International Relations Applicants?
Some of the specific, technical skills that are most important to employers vary depending on the type of work you’re doing. But almost all international affairs employers value communication skills (writing, speaking, and cross-cultural), the ability to work independently or in a team and language proficiency.”
Meg Wurm Assistant Director, Career and Graduate Academic Advisor
Employers are looking for candidates who have the ability and expertise to:
A career in international relations demands certain essential skills, many of which are developed through a master’s degree program. These include foundational hard skills, such as foreign language fluency and research skills, as well as soft skills, such as communication, conflict resolution, and critical thinking. A well-rounded master’s in international relations program should also provide training in topics connected to global affairs, such as history, economics, and policy.
Additionally, top schools should offer advanced professional skills courses for practical experience. Specialized topics of study may include negotiation, leadership, political risk analysis, and geographic information systems, for example.
Step 4: Put Theory Into Practice
Employers reviewing resumes seek educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Indeed, understanding theory is necessary, but individuals who can put that theory into practice are one step ahead of the competition.
Practical experience is a cornerstone of a top master’s degree program. It might take the form of a study abroad opportunity, internship work experience, or a graduate school capstone project, which could include a field-research trip.
💡 Top Tips
What Is the Best Advice for Someone Preparing to Apply for a Job in International Relations?
Take the time to do some research on the organizations you’re interested in. There are many different public, private, and nonprofit organizations doing work in the international affairs space. The experiences you will have and the skills you’ll need vary widely, so having an idea of where you might fit within the broader landscape will help ensure you’re applying to the positions that are a right fit for you.”
Meg Wurm Assistant Director, Career and Academic Advising
Be flexible. NGOs, think tanks, contractors, nonprofit, private sector, and public sector are all places where you can land jobs. The more flexible you are and the more job search tools (federal resume, resume, and CV) you have in your files or ‘arsenal,’ can allow for a smoother process.”
Josh Lissauer Senior Career Coach
Step 5: Tap Into a Strong Network
When you’re wondering how to start a career in international relations, having the right connections is often key. University alumni contacts working in the industry are an excellent source for professional tips and suggestions to help you get started.
College peers and expert faculty, which may include practitioners, influential authors, and former dignitaries, can be additional sources of insight. Finally, it can be helpful to have access to industry networking events where you can make valuable connections during your job search.
Step 6: Build a Strong Social Media Presence
Similar to networking in person, it’s also critical to network online. Be sure to establish yourself on platforms such as LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter), not only to connect with peers and build your expertise, but also to see what other industry organizations and professionals are discussing. Follow experts in international relations and affairs, join relevant social media groups, and regularly contribute to online conversations. Research industry hashtags to follow too.
Step 7: Take Advantage of Support Services
The master’s degree program you enroll in should also have a thriving graduate student department and career services office, providing lifetime assistance to current students as well as alumni. You should be able to access job search tools, mentoring opportunities, resume development support, mock interviewing sessions, and salary negotiating tips. In addition, career service staff may be able to provide insight into newly posted job opportunities not yet open to the general public.
💡 Top Tips
What Is the Key to Success in the Field of International Affairs and Relations?
Perseverance and curiosity! The landscape of international affairs is complex and ever-changing, and navigating it can be rough at times. As long as you have a healthy dose of determination and are willing to learn as much as you can wherever you go, you’ll be successful.”
Meg Wurm Assistant Director, Career and Academic Advising
Embracing diversity is essential and should remain a primary key to success. Cultural intelligence encompasses knowledge, strategic thinking, motivation, and behavior. However, being skilled at all those things takes time and practice. You can begin with how you relate to your neighbors, family, and friends and work from there to expand that into your professional network.”
Joshua Lissauer Senior Career Coach
Get Ready for a Career in International Relations
Trying to break into any industry can be difficult, but in a nuanced field like international relations, it can be a bit more challenging. An advanced degree is just the first box employers are checking when evaluating applicants.
Hiring organizations are also reviewing the reputation of the school you attended in addition to how well you leveraged its location and connections to the international affairs community. Job candidates with the right education coupled with a strong network, background, language skills, and applied experience typically take the lead.
While you might be one of many job applicants vying for the same position, knowing what characteristics are most desirable to employers can help you better prepare to set yourself apart when you’re ready to apply.
Shreya Agarwal is a second year Masters student pursuing International Development Studies with a concentration in Gender and Democracy and Governance. Originally from India, she completed her undergraduate studies from FLAME University, with a B.A. in Psychology and Economics. Her passion for research and public policy led her to pursue a career in international development. At the Elliott School, Shreya has been an active member of student organizations, having co-founded the Elliott School South Asian Board, and serving as the Vice President of the Organization for International Development. She is currently a research intern at Equimundo: Center for Masculinities and Social Justice, and hopes to build a career as a researcher in the field of gender and policy. Shreya enjoys traveling and trying new cuisines.
What path led you to apply to graduate school? Why did you pick the Elliott School?
I studied psychology and economics for my undergraduate studies and was on track to pursuing clinical psychology and becoming a mental health practitioner. However, I discovered that while individual psychotherapy is greatly beneficial and important, it doesn’t help tackle the larger, systemic barriers that lead to poor mental health conditions in the first place. I discovered the field of international development through my first job as a research associate at a feminist research incubator called Includovate and knew that this is what I wanted to do. After a year of working there, I felt the need to study the field academically and kickstart my career in it. I picked the Elliott School for the flexibility it offers in the International Development Studies program at the graduate level. It was the perfect fit for me as someone who wanted to explore multiple themes in international development.
How has your involvement with student organizations shaped your experience at the Elliott School?
I’ve had the privilege of co-founding a student organization (the Elliott School South Asian Board), and serving as its Vice President. I was also the Vice President of the Organization for International Development (OID) during the Fall semester of 2023. My involvement in these student organizations have given me the opportunity to put myself out there, talk about things I’m passionate about on a platform, and get to know more people within the Elliott School I wouldn’t have known otherwise. It has been a rewarding experience.
Where do you currently work, intern or volunteer, and how does it fit in with your career goals?
For the spring semester, I will be a research intern at Equimundo: Center for Masculinities and Social Justice, which works to engage men and boys in the larger gender equality effort. In the field of gender, masculinities, and the engagement of men and boys is a fairly recent development, and Equimundo has been one of the leading organizations for research in this area. This internship will contribute to my goals of becoming a researcher in the field of gender, and also help deepen my understanding of patriarchal structures as something that affect all individuals regardless of their gender.
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned so far at the Elliott School?
The skill of putting myself out there, learning to have a conversation with anyone about anything under the sun, and becoming a more confident individual overall. The emphasis on networking from the day I got to Elliott has truly helped me get out of my shell (as an introvert), and watch it do wonders for my professional and academic life.
The views expressed by students profiled do not necessarily represent those of organizations they work for, are affiliated with, or the Elliott School of International Affairs.
Anusha Tamhane is a second-year International Affairs student with a concentration in Global Energy and Environmental Policy. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from North Carolina State University in 2020 with degrees in Business Administration and International Relations and a minor in Spanish. She is currently works as the Marketing and Communications Assistant at the GW Office of Sustainability. She also serves as the current Editor-in-Chief of the International Affairs Review (IAR) web edition, the graduate student-run online publication of the Elliott School. In her free time, Anusha enjoys exploring DC, hiking, and martial arts.
What path led you to apply to graduate school? Why did you pick the Elliott School?
I decided to apply to graduate school after a few years of post-grad work experience because I wanted to become more specialized in the realm of international affairs and policy. I chose the Elliott School for two main reasons. First, since it is located in the heart of DC, I knew I’d have exposure to so many events and opportunities. Secondly, I looked at the course catalog and requirements before applying and was drawn to the wide selection of classes available. Classes in international development policy and gender policy specifically piqued my interest. I also liked the idea of having a final capstone project rather than writing an individual thesis, and for these reasons, I decided on the Elliott School.
What has been your favorite course at the Elliott School so far and why?
I have two favorite Elliott School courses (I couldn’t pick just one!) The first is Global Gender Policy taught by Dr. Shirley Graham. I took it during my first semester at Elliott and I learned so much. Dr. Graham is an excellent professor, and the class covers a wide variety of topics, including the history of the Convention Eliminating ALL Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the Women Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, and so much more. I’d recommend this class to everyone, even folks not in the Global Gender Policy concentration because the concepts we learned in this class are applicable everywhere. For example, I’m studying environmental policy, and there are so many gendered issues when it comes to climate change, natural disasters/slow onset events, etc. This class helped me realize that it’s important to consider gender no matter what field you end up in, and Dr. Graham really takes the time to get to know her students and understand their goals.
The second course is called Conflict and Corruption: The Resource Curse and is taught by Professor Sarah Pray, and it’s one of the Elliott School’s skills courses. This class covers the basics of the resource curse, the idea that developing nations with an abundance of non-renewable resources rarely see the benefits/profits from these resources. Along with that, the class also serves as an introduction to advocacy skills, and the final project allows students to prepare an advocacy pitch. Professor Pray’s engaging teaching style and the interesting subject matter made this class one of my favorites.
Where do you currently work, intern or volunteer, and how does it fit in with your career goals?
I am currently the Marketing and Communications Assistant at GW’s Office of Sustainability within the Division of Safety and Facilities. This job aligns perfectly with my career goals because I am studying environmental policy and after graduating, I hope to work in environmental advocacy or climate literacy/communications. We’re fed so much information on a daily basis about climate change, and while some of this information is helpful, some of it can fuel our climate ‘doomism’ or the idea that there’s nothing we can do to solve the climate crisis. I hope to work in a position where I provide accurate and accessible information to a wide variety of audiences (specifically marginalized groups who are more susceptible to the negative effects of climate change) that focuses on the realities of climate change without fueling climate ‘doomism.’ In my current position at the Office of Sustainability, I provide students/the GW community with small-scale sustainable solutions that they can implement in their daily lives. For example, we put out some content last month encouraging students to limit their use of single-use plastics to show that this is a small change that everyone can make.
Think of where you were when you applied to the Elliott School. What advice would you give yourself knowing what you know now, as a student?
When I applied to the Elliott School, I wanted a career change, and I knew I wanted to work on policy issues and international relations. Since starting at the Elliott School, I’ve switched my concentration a couple times (initially starting out in Global Gender Policy/Development before switching to Global Energy and Environmental Policy). While I don’t regret changing my concentration since it allowed me to take a wide variety of classes and develop my interests in environmental policy, I would advise my past self to get clear on what I want to do with my Master’s degree and what specifically within international affairs I am most interested in. This field is so broad and at the Elliott School you have the opportunity to study so many things. I’d advise myself and other students to gain a breadth of knowledge while simultaneously picking one or two things to become an expert in and gain a depth of knowledge in those areas.
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned so far at the Elliott School?
The most valuable thing I have learned at the Elliott School is to express your interests to the people who are in a position to help you reach your goals- professors, bosses, mentors, etc. My first semester at Elliott, I took a class with Dr. Shirley Graham and expressed my interests in gender issues and policymaking. She encouraged me to join an organization that she was the faculty director for, the DC Student Consortium on Women Peace and Security (WPS). Another valuable thing I’ve learned is that you can have multiple thematic interests that don’t seem to relate to one another and still find ways in which they intersect. For instance, I am interested in gender policy, but I’m also interested in environmental policy and climate action. Initially, these areas don’t seem to have much in common, but during my time at Elliott, I’ve learned just how important a gendered lens is when talking about environmental issues and climate policy. I’ve enjoyed exploring these interests at Elliott and learning about the intersections between them.
What is your favorite place in DC to enjoy reading a book or sipping a cup of coffee/tea?
My favorite coffee shop is Kaldi’s in Arlington (not too far from DC). It has a great atmosphere, good music, lots of comfortable seating, and a wide selection of food and drinks (my favorite is the iced mango black tea). It’s my go-to spot when I need to finish a paper or study during finals.
The views expressed by students profiled do not necessarily represent those of organizations they work for, are affiliated with, or the Elliott School of International Affairs.
Jana Ondrášková is a second-year Master’s student in the Security Policy Studies program at the Elliott School with a concentration in Transnational Security. She received her Bachelor’s degree at the University of New York in Prague and SUNY Empire State College in 2022 with a double major in International Relations and Public Affairs. Her focus areas include Countering Violent Extremism in sub-Saharan Africa, democratic backsliding in Europe, and great power competition in the Arctic theater. She is currently a Research Associate at the Business Executives for National Security (BENS) and conducts research on alternative sources of energy, the utilization of small nuclear reactors, and European defense industrial capabilities.Jana also has experience in European Union (EU) integration and policy realms due to her previous work with Prague-based think tank, EUROPEUM Institute for European Policy. Jana enjoys attending panel discussions on a vast array of topics in the security field, international travel, photography, and meeting people from different cultures.
What has been your favorite experience at the Elliott School so far, and why?
My learning experience at the Elliott School has not only been defined by academic opportunities but myriad other experiences that I will cherish many years after graduation. Most memorably, I recently had the opportunity to travel with other young, talented professionals to Northern Europe as part of the course, Transatlantic Perspectives on Security in Northern Europe. Additionally, throughout the academic year, I have had the pleasure of serving on the Security Policy Studies (SPS) Board, which has given me a strong sense of community and endowed me with leadership skills. Being able to help plan SPS Board events, such as welcome back receptions and panel discussions, has connected me with my classmates and faculty. I have also learned a great deal about a variety of challenging international affairs topics by attending student-led events, which considerably complement my classroom experience. I have also interacted with the well-renowned Elliott School institutes, such as the Institute for European, Russian and Eurasian Studies (IERES) and the Leadership Ethics and Practice Initiative (LEAP), which have provided me with insight into international affairs conversations being held in academia and in D.C. One of the most memorable events I attended was a discussion with a CIA professional on leadership and ethics. With an extensive background on counterterrorism, covert action, and human intelligence collection, this event opened my eyes to the vast career opportunities in the field of security. Another remarkable experience was attending an Elliott School event in the City View Room, overlooking the Washington Monument. This networking event allowed me to make meaningful professional connections, as well as strengthen existing ones with my class colleagues and faculty members. Overall, in just one year, the Elliott School has provided me with academic, professional, and social experiences that will remain with me throughout my life, and I look forward to another year of amazing endeavors.
What courses have you found most helpful in your work experiences and how have they been useful?
Without a doubt, my favorite course at the Elliott School so far has been, Transatlantic Perspectives on Security in North Europe. This summer study abroad program, led by Professor Christopher Kojm, provided first-hand insight into Europe’s most complex social, political, and security dilemmas. I partook in intensive seminars and engaging discussions in Washington, D.C.; Stockholm; Helsinki; and Tallinn. Not only did students learn about the histories, national political systems, and security concerns of the mentioned states and their citizenries, but we also had the rare privilege of speaking with some of the most influential actors in these sectors. From high-level policymakers and officials to think tankers and pollsters, I could apply my classroom knowledge to real-world experience. This skill is particularly useful in the realm of security policy, as bringing information to life can drastically change how policy is drafted, implemented, and received. Additionally, by forging meaningful connections across the European Union, and sharpening my critical thinking, analytical abilities, and public speaking skills, I am certain that this endeavor will benefit my professional prospects and capabilities for a lifetime to come. Overall, this course was not only critical in establishing my expertise in transatlantic security, but it fundamentally affected my ability to be a changemaker in the whole field.
Describe the pros and cons of being a full-time versus a part-time student at the Elliott School.
As a full-time student at the Elliott School, I have, of course, encountered certain burdens inherent to that status. From the late nights spent at the library to the endless cups of coffee, a full-time course load at Elliott has kept me quite busy. Layered with the complexities of being an international student, I have also invested a significant amount of time and energy into finding applicable internships. Lastly, as somebody who values community, I have dedicated my spare time to various student organizations, taking on leadership roles and supporting others and their initiatives wherever possible.
The key to keeping my sanity in the midst of this demanding field has been planning – so, if you do not own a planner, now is the time to get one! It is critical to keep track of the many events, meetings, deadlines, and get-togethers to ensure you are a successful, as well as fulfilled, student. With all of that said, being a full-time student and attempting to make the most of my degree has been challenging at times. However, these challenges are outweighed by the many benefits.
The many hours I commit to my education have allowed me to immerse myself in world-class academics at George Washington University and the thrilling professional environment of the nation’s capital. My full-time status has put me on a fast track to earning my degree and being an attractive candidate for rewarding, high-level positions after graduation. But, most importantly, my dedication has led to a support system made up of other students, and even faculty, critical to my personal success and growth. As the international representative on the Security Policy Studies Student Board, I am privileged to meet students from all backgrounds in my program, as well as take part in the wider international community at the Elliott School. Regardless of which program somebody may be in, it is clear that all students support one another through the tough times while cheering each other on through the good.
In all, while it may be overwhelming to be a full-time student in the District, I would not trade in my experience for any other!
What resources or strategies have proven to be the most valuable in helping you reach success at the Elliott School?
I have found collaboration with my classmates to be the most effective strategy to success at the Elliott School. Brainstorming sessions with my class colleagues make my assignments both creative and impactful, and also prepare me for engaging and stimulating class discourse. I enjoy hearing other’s perspectives to expand my knowledge, improve my communication, and challenge my own biases. Additionally, I have been able to make long-lasting friendships by working with my peers, which further enforces my commitment to and respect for the Elliott School community. Further, collaboration with my classmates has led to professional opportunities and advice I never thought possible. This has been especially important for me as an international student, given that my conversations and connections help me to understand the American workforce and the educational system, as well as the culture.
Along with this strategy for success, I find that attending conferences, book talks, and panel discussions deepens my knowledge and appreciation of the security field. For example, the Institute for European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies hosts the Program on New Approaches to Research and Security in Eurasia conference, which gathers over 140 academics to advance new approaches to research and security, politics, economics, and society in the region. Attending these events has opened my eyes to the many questions pressing security practitioners and the role I may play in shaping the field.
What advice do you have for prospective students who are comparing a graduate program at the Elliott School with other DC graduate schools?
Location. Location. Location. Because GW is in the heart of D.C., I am surrounded by prestigious national and global institutions, including the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, the Pentagon, the White House, Capitol Hill, and so much more. Not only is the Elliott School within walking distance to many of these influential sites, but the experts housed in them are within walking distance to us. That means that our faculty, guest lecturers, and event guests are some of the most renowned in their field and impart their experiential knowledge (and connections!) onto the student body. Along with their notoriety, Elliott School faculty members are some of the most kind, supportive, and eager people I know and they are dedicated to helping you advance your career goals.
Additionally, the student body itself is amazing to learn from. Students come from all parts of the world, and share the wisdom they have gained along the way with their peers. This makes the learning experience all that more effective as classroom learning is reflective of the real world.
These factors and many more combined make the Elliott school spirit unlike any other. Students are immersed in international affairs and united by their passion for learning. Personally speaking, the Security Policy Studies community has been a focal point in my educational journey. My friends are made up of veterans, active duty personnel, current security practitioners, and dedicated scholars who all provide me with a new perspective on complex global issues.
What is the last movie that you really enjoyed and why?
Like many of my colleagues, I recently completed the Barbie-Oppenheimer marathon. Personally, being a Security Policy Studies student, while I could appreciate the strategic considerations behind the Ken-Coup in Barbie, I enjoyed Oppenheimer the most. Oppenheimer is a powerful story that tangibly changed the world, and the movie aptly portrays the Cold War rivalry and nuanced interagency relations. With that said, however, I was somewhat disappointed that the movie did not bring to light the horrors of the nuclear atrocities it is based on. We must remember the lived experiences of those on the other end of such a trauma because, if forgotten, we risk reliving them. Accordingly, I would have appreciated a visualization of the aftermath of the nuclear bombing, or photographs of the actual scientists, to remind viewers of the very real consequences nuclear weapons have on society, and educate them about why disarmament and non-proliferation are critical. Regardless, I can still say that I was pleased with the overall camera work and performance of the actors, and believe the movie invites important conversations to be had about past, present, and future security dilemmas.
The views expressed by students profiled do not necessarily represent those of organizations they work for, are affiliated with, or the Elliott School of International Affairs.
Elliott School Office of Graduate Admissions 