BA offered by Glendon
Explore the complexities of global affairs with York’s International Studies / Études internationales program. This interdisciplinary and bilingual program delves into key issues such as international relations, global economics, human rights, and sustainable development. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical experiences like study abroad opportunities, internships, and research projects, you will develop the skills to analyze and address global challenges. With small class sizes and personalized mentorship, Glendon offers a supportive environment for academic growth and bilingual proficiency in English and French. Graduates are well-prepared for impactful careers in diplomacy, public policy, international organizations, and beyond.
Career Options in International Studies / Études internationales
Here are just some of the career options related to this major. As all degrees offer transferable skills, some jobs are more closely linked to this field, than others. Check Canada’s Job Bank for regional requirements.
This bilingual degree qualifies you for roles in bilingual environments or within French and English markets. Many positions in the Federal Government of Canada and other levels of government require proficiency in both official languages: English and French.
- Academic Researcher (International Relations & Policy Focus)
- Advocacy Specialist
- Artificial Intelligence Ethics Analyst (Global Impact Focus)
- Bilingual Conflict Resolution Specialist
- Bilingual Policy Analyst
- Climate Change Analyst
- Community Development Coordinator
- Corporate Diplomacy Advisor
- Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist
- Cross-Border Trade Specialist
- Cultural Consultant
- Cybersecurity Policy Analyst (International Focus)
- Development Finance Analyst
- Diplomatic Attaché
- Economic Policy Advisor
- Electoral Officer
- Foreign Affairs Analyst
- Foreign Language Intelligence Analyst
- Government Policy Advisor
- Human Rights Officer
- Immigration and Settlement Officer
- Innovation and Global Strategy Consultant
- International Aid Worker
- International Arbitration Specialist
- International Business Consultant
- International Conflict Analyst
- International Development Officer
- International Disaster Relief Coordinator
- International Education Coordinator
- International Environmental Governance Advisor
- International Humanitarian Law Consultant
- International Media Analyst
- International Relations Specialist
- Journalist (International Affairs Focus)
- Labor Relations Specialist
- Lobbyist
- Market Research Analyst
- Media and Digital Diplomacy Strategist
- Migration Policy Advisor
- Multilateral Negotiator
- NGO Program Coordinator
- Policy Researcher (International Focus)
- Public Affairs Specialist
- Refugee Program Coordinator
- Research Assistant (Global Issues)
- Risk Analyst (International Focus)
- Social Policy Advisor
- Sustainability Consultant
- Teacher (Global Studies, with Certification)
- Think Tank Researcher
- Tourism Development Specialist
- Trade Policy Advisor
- Translator (International Relations Documents)
- United Nations Program Officer
- Urban Policy Analyst
- Volunteer Program Manager
- Youth Outreach Coordinator
Some career choices may require further education, such as graduate studies or professional courses and exams. For detailed career descriptions and specific requirements, please check Canada’s Job Bank.
Entry-Level Positions in International Studies / Études internationales
An undergraduate degree is typically sufficient for these positions, though some locations may require additional qualifications. For region-specific information, please check Canada’s Job Bank.
- Bilingual Customer Service Representative
- Bilingual Education Coordinator
- Bilingual Program Assistant (NGO)
- Bilingual Research Assistant
- Cultural Affairs Assistant
- Diplomatic Service Officer (Entry-Level)
- Economic Development Assistant
- Embassy Assistant
- Foreign Affairs Analyst (Entry-Level)
- Humanitarian Aid Worker
- International Business Associate
- International Development Intern
- Language Specialist for International Organizations
- Marketing Coordinator (Bilingual)
- Policy Analyst (Entry-Level)
- Public Relations Associate (Bilingual)
- Research Analyst (International Focus)
- Social Media Coordinator (Bilingual)
- Translation and Localization Specialist
- Volunteer Coordinator (Nonprofit)
For career descriptions, visit Canada’s Job Bank. Some occupations may also be found on Career Cruising; for login information, navigate to the Career Centre’s homepage in Experience York.
Skills Developed through a Degree in International Studies / Études internationales
Core Skills
- International Policy Analysis: Gaining the ability to critically assess policies and their impacts on global issues such as trade, security, and development.
- Bilingual Communication: Developing advanced proficiency in English and French for effective research, reporting, and presentations.
- Cross-Cultural Competence: Understanding and navigating cultural differences in international contexts.
- Quantitative and Qualitative Research: Learning to analyze global trends using statistical and field research methods.
- Geopolitical Analysis: Acquiring knowledge to evaluate international relations and global power dynamics.
- Sustainability Planning: Exploring strategies to address environmental and development challenges on a global scale.
Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills
- Bilingual Writing and Presentation: Communicating complex global issues fluently in English and French.
- Global Data Collection: Gathering and analyzing international data through reports, interviews, and fieldwork.
- Critical Thinking: Evaluating international case studies and policies to propose evidence-based solutions.
- Analytical Reporting: Synthesizing research into clear, actionable reports or policy briefs.
- Organizational Planning: Managing projects, assignments, and international collaborations effectively.
- Negotiation and Diplomacy: Learning to mediate and resolve disputes in multicultural and international settings.
Management and Teamwork Skills
- Project Management: Planning and executing research or initiatives on global issues such as climate change, trade, or human rights.
- Team Collaboration: Working effectively within multicultural and multidisciplinary teams.
- Conflict Resolution: Navigating and resolving international or cross-cultural disagreements diplomatically.
- Leadership Development: Leading teams in research projects, international initiatives, or community development programs.
- Strategic Decision-Making: Applying critical thinking to develop strategies for addressing global challenges.
- Time Management: Balancing diverse academic, research, and extracurricular commitments.
Professional Associations
Professional associations offer valuable insights into qualifications, industry trends, and career opportunities. They provide networking events, workshops, mentorship programs, and internships, as well as job boards and career development resources. Additionally, some associations offer professional licensing and regulatory oversight.
- Canadian International Council (CIC): Promotes research and engagement on international relations and Canadian foreign policy.
- United Nations Association in Canada (UNAC): Supports Canadian engagement with the United Nations and international diplomacy.
- International Studies Association (ISA): Advances interdisciplinary research and teaching on global and international affairs.
- World Affairs Canada (WAC): Provides forums for discussions on global politics and economic trends.