Program Overview
International Relations (IR) is a field of political science that focuses on conflict, cooperation, organizations, treaties, human rights, migration, trade, climate change, and other critical global issues. Students will explore a wide range of topics, from terrorism to economic sanctions, and their IR major path will culminate in a self-designed research project. Our graduates go on to careers in diplomacy, law, government, business, international organizations, and non-profits.
Program Highlights
Learn with Engaged Faculty
Work closely with enthusiastic faculty who support your interests, research, and academic growth.
Explore Global Issues Firsthand
Pursue independent research and international fieldwork that connect global questions with on-the-ground experience.
Study Across the World
Choose from a wide range of study abroad opportunities, including traditional programs and short-term faculty-led experiences.
Spotlight
Student Perspective
“I want my experience in Japan to enlighten me about new opportunities I could take. That’s what I am most excited for; I want to be inspired to do more things.”
Earl Simons, Jr. ’22
Government, Trumpet Performance, Japanese
Cambria Heights, New York
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
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Faculty
Engage deeply and collaboratively with professors who are experts in their field and committed to supporting your education.
Chair
William Hixon
Gordon R. Clapp Chair of American Studies and Associate Professor of Government
Bill Hixon is the Gordon R. Clapp Professor of American Studies, Associate Professor of Government, and a member of the Environmental Studies faculty at Lawrence University. His teaching areas include…
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Jason Brozek
Stephen Edward Scarff Professor of International Affairs and Associate Professor of Government
Jason Brozek is Associate Professor of Government and Stephen Edward Scarff Professor of International Affairs, and since joining the faculty in 2008, has taught courses on global politics, international law,…
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Ameya S. Balsekar
Associate Professor of Government
My interests are in the sub-field of Comparative Politics, with a focus on developing countries, the politics of identity, political rhetoric, and constitution-making. I also teach courses on democracies and…
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Claudena Skran (she/her)
Edwin & Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science and Professor of Government
Claudena Skran is Director of the Business & Entrepreneurship program and Professor of Government and the Edwin and Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science.As a the Director of…
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Many IR majors study abroad at programs like LU’s own London Centre, the EU studies program in Germany, the climate change program in New Zealand, or a program in globalization & economic development in Shanghai, China. Many students also join LU faculty on short-term field-experience trips to locations such as Sierra Leone, Ghana, and The Gambia.
