<p>While I agree with most of what agc 0319 says, if you elect to do an undergraduate degree in IR (of IS, IA) there a few good opportunities for employment at this level. However, most NGO’s, Think-Tanks want a Master’s Degree in IR. The CIA prefers Master Degrees for Analyst Positions, but if you intern with them as an undergrad they will hire you out-of-college if positions are available (Relative did it this way).</p>
<p>You can also become a Foreign Service Officer (FSO) for the State Dept , i.e. career diplomat, with only an undergraduate degree in IR. Although, the testing and screening for this is difficult and very selective. Once again, an internship with the State Dept as an undergrad is of key importance here. If you want to be Sec State - agree it’s usually a political appointment.</p>
<p>There a quite a few colleges that offer undergraduate majors in IR, IS, or IA. It’s hard to generalize the curriculum for each - so do some research first. As I’ve said on previous sites regarding this issue - a key in this major as an undergraduate is obtaining a good internship and networking, but alas - your looking at a Graduate Degree most likely before you really “know” anything to become an expert in the field.</p>
<p>My last “2” cents on this - personal recommendations. If you are considering a career in government picking a college in either DC or NYC would benefit due to many internship options.</p>
<p>If your thinking “academics” - go for the Ivy’s.</p>
<p>CJ</p>