International Relations

BA in International Relations with Concentrations in (one is required): PR and GR; International Business; Data Analytics in IR

Length: 4 years

Language of instruction: 100% English

BA in International Relations prepares students for careers in government, international organizations, global NGOs, corporate business, and think – tanks. Students will acquire advanced analytical, linguistic and intercultural communication skills as well as in – depth understanding of decision – making processes in foreign policy and global governance. Undergraduate degree in International Relations also builds a strong foundation to pursue graduate studies in top foreign Universities. Within this program, students will have the opportunity to specialize in one of three elective concentrations, each designed to provide in-depth expertise and competencies.

Learning outcomes:

• demonstrate critical thinking skills, written and verbal communication skills and IT skills;
• master linguistic skills, intercultural awareness skills, presentation skills, leadership and effective teamwork skills to be able to work in international organizations and non – governmental organizations;
• understand and follow principles of ethics in the context of international relations, international business and international politics;
• understand and be able to apply research methods in international relations to design and conduct research;
• master major theories, paradigms and perspectives in contemporary international relations to analyze current world affairs;
• understand major actors, principles, key stages of evolution of international system, institutions and processes of modern international relations;
• communicate results of analytical work to specialist and non – specialist audiences;
• Independently collect, update and process relevant information on major trends in international relations, global governance and trans – border exchanges;
• be capable to offer evidence – based insights to international and national companies engaged in international business and trade which operate in different geopolitical, cultural and linguistic contexts;
• apply analytical skills to diagnose, evaluate and solve international global issues like international migration, sustainable development, global human rights situation, environmental concerns;
• understand major concerns and challenges faced by states and international community in a globalized world and analyze major geopolitical and geo – economic trends in the world;
• master theoretical and practical knowledge about major international organizations and about how global governance operates in order to contribute to Kazakhstan’s efforts to global governance and Kazakhstan’s participation in international organizations;
• demonstrate strong understanding and awareness of national development needs and foreign policy priorities of Kazakhstan, needs and priorities of foreign policy and analytical agencies of Kazakhstan and capacity to generate policy – relevant arguments and recommendations.

Concentration in Public and Government Relations (PR & GR)

The Concentration in PR & GR offered under the BA in International Relations is a 35-credit program that provides specialized training in public relations, government affairs, media diplomacy, policy analysis, and corporate governance. This concentration equips students with the skills to navigate the complex interactions between public institutions, private sector stakeholders, and civil society organizations. Students will develop expertise in strategic communication, stakeholder engagement, media influence in diplomacy, and ethical governance, preparing them for careers in public affairs, corporate communications, policymaking, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Learning outcomes:

• Demonstrable knowledge of effective communication strategies tailored for diverse stakeholders in government, corporate, and public sectors.
• Assess the impact of government regulations, public policies, and institutional frameworks on organizations and industries.
• Design and execute stakeholder engagement strategies that align with corporate and governmental objectives.
• Analyze legal frameworks governing public affairs, lobbying, and political communication in national and international contexts.

Concentration in International Business (IB)

The Concentration in International Business offered under the BA in International Relations is a 35-credit program that provides specialized training in global trade, digital business transformation, financial management, marketing, and supply chain strategies. This concentration equips students with the skills to analyze and manage international markets, global business operations, and digital-driven enterprises. Through a mix of finance, IT, marketing, and operations courses, students gain a comprehensive understanding of how businesses expand, compete, and innovate in the global economy.

Learning outcomes:

• Analyze the role of digital transformation in global markets, including the impact of emerging technologies on international trade and business strategies.
• Assess the financial implications of international business decisions and market fluctuations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of international branding, cross-cultural communication, and global consumer behavior.
• Apply operations management principles to optimize business efficiency in an international context.
• Understand the complexities of global supply chain management, logistics, and trade regulations.
• Apply digital tools for business intelligence and technology-driven business models.
• Understand marketing analytics, consumer behavior, and digital marketing trends.

Concentration in Data Analytics in IR (DA in IR)

The Concentration in Data Analytics offered under the BA in International Relations is a 35-credit program that provides specialized training in quantitative research methods, programming, data visualization, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and network analysis. This concentration equips students with the technical and analytical skills necessary to interpret complex global trends, assess international security threats, and apply data-driven decision-making in diplomacy, policymaking, and global governance. Through a blend of computational techniques and international relations expertise, students will develop the ability to analyze big data, global networks, and cyber threats, preparing them for careers in policy analysis, intelligence, risk assessment, and digital diplomacy.

Learning outcomes:

• Apply quantitative research methods to analyze political, economic, and security trends in international relations.
• Create interactive data visualizations to effectively communicate complex political and economic trends.
• Understand the role of cybersecurity in international security and the challenges posed by cyber threats to national and global stability.
• Analyze the impact of artificial intelligence on diplomacy, military strategy, and global governance.
• Conduct network analysis to assess international political and economic relationships.