Saginaw Valley State University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary major blends core international relations theory with focused work on national and homeland security. You will study foundational subjects such as international relations theory, comparative politics, international law and diplomacy, alongside specialised topics including national security policy, intelligence analysis, terrorism and counterterrorism, and cyber security policy. Quantitative and qualitative research methods are emphasised to prepare you for policy analysis and decision-making.

• Core modules: Introduction to International Relations, International Law and Organizations, Comparative Politics, Research Methods in Political Science.
• Security-focused modules: National Security Policy, Intelligence Studies, Terrorism and Political Violence, Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Cybersecurity and Policy.
• Regional and thematic electives: U.S. Foreign Policy, European Politics, Middle East Politics, Asian Security, Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs, Global Political Economy.
• Capstone and experiential learning: Senior seminar or capstone research project in international relations/national security, and opportunities for internships with government, non-profit or private-sector organisations.

The programme typically follows a liberal-arts structure with general education requirements, major coursework, and elective credits. Students are encouraged to pursue complementary minors such as Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Computer Science or Economics, and to participate in study-abroad or field study opportunities where possible.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet Saginaw Valley State University’s standard undergraduate admission requirements, including completion of secondary education or an equivalent credential. Competitive applicants typically present a strong academic record with coursework in social studies, history, civics and English. Useful preparation includes courses in mathematics and statistics to support the programme’s research methods components.

• Successful completion of secondary school/secondary leaving certificate meeting university admission standards.
• Evidence of readiness for university-level work; a competitive grade profile in academic subjects relevant to the social sciences.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved exemptions.
• Submission of a personal statement, résumé and letters of recommendation can strengthen an application and demonstrate interest in international affairs or security studies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers in public, private and non-profit sectors. Common pathways include roles in national and local government, intelligence and security agencies, law enforcement, policy analysis, diplomacy and foreign service, and international non-governmental organisations. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in international relations, security studies, public policy, law or related fields.

• Intelligence analyst, policy analyst or strategic planner in government agencies or defence organisations.
• Positions in homeland security, emergency management, or counterterrorism units at the state or federal level.
• Diplomatic corps, foreign service, or roles with international organisations and NGOs focused on development, human rights or conflict resolution.
• Private-sector careers with defence contractors, risk consultancy firms, cybersecurity companies, or multinational corporations requiring geopolitical risk assessment.
• Further study: graduate programmes in international relations, security studies, public policy, or law.

Why study at Saginaw Valley State University

Saginaw Valley State University offers an undergraduate environment with small class sizes and direct access to faculty who specialise in political science, international affairs and security studies. The programme emphasises applied learning through internships, practicum placements and a senior capstone that connect classroom theory with real-world policy work.

• Applied opportunities: SVSU supports internships with local and regional government offices, non-profits and agencies, which help students build practical skills and professional networks.
• Faculty engagement: Students benefit from faculty mentorship on research projects and career planning, and from classroom discussion informed by contemporary policy experience.
• Flexibility and pathways: The curriculum allows for minors and elective choices that let students tailor their studies toward intelligence, homeland security, cybersecurity or international development, and provides routes into graduate study or direct employment.