Thank you for your interest in Western’s Program in International Relations. In an era of rapid global transformations and increasing insecurities, a thorough understanding of international relations with its historical dimensions, theoretical frameworks, and contemporary manifestations is indispensable. Any hope in successfully tackling the myriad of challenges ahead, from peace to climate change and the struggle for global justice, requires solid knowledge and expertise in international relations.    

Since 2006, IR at Western has provided such expertise. The program is a collaborative project by the departments of political science and history and provides exceptionally talented students with a well-founded grounding and coherent understanding of world affairs in two interdisciplinary modules: an Honours Specialization in International Relations and an Honours Specialization IR/HBA/in collaboration with the Ivey School of Business.  

We also offer our students great flexibility in combining IR with another major in faculties across Western. While most students hail from Social Sciences and Arts and Humanities, others combine IR with a major in the faculties of Music, Science, or Information & Media Studies. Our students enjoy a solid curriculum, internationally renowned faculty, small classes, outstanding facilities and learning infrastructure, and a wide range of extracurricular enrichment opportunities in international relations and global affairs.  

Many student credit the preparation they receive in the IR program as crucial to their successful and meaningful participation in further educational experiences abroad. Indicative is the testimonial of Helen Li, Zaina Butt, and Tessa McDermid about their summer 2025 EU- Study Program experience:  

“We found out about this opportunity through the IR program and Western International, and are so fortunate to have professors who encouraged us to apply [...] This trip brought everything we have been learning in the International Relations (IR) program at Western to life. With knowledgeable and dedicated faculty, a strong curriculum relevant to current global affairs, the close-knit community among IR students, and so many ways to connect theory with what’s happening in the world, the IR program gave us the context, tools, and the curiosity to make the most out of every insight we gained abroad. The IR program at Western is truly something special, and we are immensely grateful to be a part of a program that has provided us with these opportunities, both at home and abroad.”

Finally, the IR program prepares its students for outstanding careers in government, law, business, journalism, and education. We are proud of our alumni and their accomplishments and frequently feature program graduates in our annual IR career workshops and research conferences.       

We invite you to explore our website, follow us on Bluesky, or visit one of our events. For program questions: IR-inquiries@uwo.ca