University of Missouri

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational international relations courses with specialised national security topics and applied skill development. Typical modules include International Relations Theory, Comparative Politics, United States Foreign Policy, International Security, War and Conflict, Diplomacy and Negotiation, and International Law. Students also take research methods and statistics for political science, a capstone or senior seminar, and are encouraged to complete a foreign language sequence to strengthen regional expertise.

• Core theory and foundations – realism, liberalism, constructivism and approaches to global governance.
• Security-focused modules – strategic studies, intelligence and intelligence analysis, homeland security, cyber security and asymmetric warfare.
• Regional and policy studies – courses on Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and area-specific security challenges.
• Research and methods – quantitative and qualitative methods, policy analysis, and a senior research project or practicum.
• Experiential learning – internship opportunities, study abroad, models of diplomacy, and practicum placements with public agencies, NGOs or media.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions typically consider academic record/GPA, strength of college‑preparatory coursework (history, social studies, mathematics and languages recommended), and the applicant’s personal statement. Standardised tests may be optional depending on the current admissions policy; consult the university for the latest guidance. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests or qualifications.

Recommended preparation includes coursework in history, government, economics and at least one foreign language. Relevant extracurricular experience—such as debate, model UN, community service, or work in student government—can strengthen an application. Transfer applicants should supply college transcripts and may need to meet specific residency or credit requirements for the major.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with analytical, written and oral communication skills, data literacy and regional knowledge that are valued across the public and private sectors. Common career pathways include:

• Foreign service and diplomacy (national embassies and consular services)
• National and homeland security roles within government and defence agencies
• Intelligence analysis and security consulting for public agencies or private contractors
• Policy analysis and public affairs for think tanks, NGOs and advocacy organisations
• International development programmes and humanitarian organisations
• Corporate roles in risk analysis, international business compliance and global affairs
• Journalism, especially international reporting, and legal careers after further study

Students commonly pursue internships during the degree and many go on to graduate study in international relations, security studies, public policy, law or related fields.

Why study at University of Missouri

University of Missouri (Mizzou) provides a large public research‑university environment with interdisciplinary options that let students combine international relations and security studies with economics, history, languages or journalism. Faculty teaching the programme engage in active research on foreign policy and security issues, offering students access to current debates and applied projects.

The campus supports practical career development through an established career centre, internship pipelines, and study‑abroad partnerships that strengthen regional expertise. Students benefit from opportunities to work with faculty on research, participate in simulation exercises and secure practicum placements with government, media and non‑profit organisations. ROTC programmes and links to veteran and defence communities also provide pathways for students interested in military careers.

Overall, the programme combines theoretical rigour, methodological training and applied experience to prepare graduates for roles that require clear policy thinking, cross‑cultural awareness and informed judgement on international security challenges.