International Relations is an introductory course on international politics and the relations between actors in the global political system. The overarching goal of this course is for students to critically engage with diverse and opposing perspectives to better understand the changing world and their role as US and global citizens.
We are excited to offer International Relations next year. It is a great option for students who are passionate about policy and are interested in the global world around them.”
- Roger Andre, Executive Director
The VANTAGE Experience
Students systematically study international interactions between actors with different interests and ideas. They explore topics, encounter puzzles, examine theories, and evaluate evidence to understand world politics better. Students understand abstract political concepts through case studies and debates and relate them to real-world examples, developing international-mindedness.
Students are paired with a one-on-one mentor for the year as part of the VANTAGE program. Each semester, they work on external company projects, working on a real-world problem/challenge. Students receive valuable insights through guest instruction and enriching site visits that align with their academic curriculum. Throughout this experience, students develop and hone essential skills such as professionalism, teamwork, effective communication, problem-solving and leadership.
Register for International Relations if you are interested in:
- Relevant topics in a globalizing world
- Foreign policy
- International conflict and negotiation
- Fulfilling your senior social studies credit
- Fulfilling an English graduation requirement while earning college credit
Course Credit
Grades offered: 11-12
MHS credits: 2.0
University of Minnesota Duluth credits: 4.0
- IB Global Politics SL* (1.0 social studies credit - weighted)
- CITS College Writing
- 1.0 English credit (weighted)
- 3.0 University of Minnesota Duluth credits for CITS College Writing
*This is a year-long social studies elective course which can be applied to the required 12th-grade social studies credit.
**Students who have already completed IB Global Politics in Spanish are NOT eligible for this strand.