International Relations
Want to tackle global issues of the 21st century?
Study how global developments affect our lives in this International Relations programme. Organize your own European conference, step into the shoes of various world leaders and learn about topics such as policy law, public affairs and intercultural management. This programme is perfect if you want to enter the public policy realm or business world, and may well serve as a stepping stone towards graduate courses in foreign affairs, law, public administration, public policy, political science or business.
Want to study at Windesheim for a full academic year? Combine this programme with International Business Studies.
What's International Relations like?
This full-time bachelor's level programme (30 ECTS credits) offers a balanced package of courses in which theory and practice are combined. We will take a look at what is going on in the world of international affairs, by going to Brussels to visit the European Parliament and key lobbying agencies.
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Project 1: European affairs (5 ECTS credits)
The first part of your semester revolves around this project - you will represent a member state of the EU during a mock European Summit. To prepare for the summit, you will research the position of ‘your’ country on current affairs and participate in lobbying rounds, visit the heart of Europe, Brussels, and meet with policy makers. The European Summit gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your lobbying, negotiating, collaborative and intercultural communication skills to reach a collective goal: a shared vision for the European Union on a topical issue.
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Project 2: Global affairs (5 ECTS credits)
Dwelling upon the experiences you have gained during Project 1, the focus of this second project is more global. You will dive into the challenges and opportunities of the African continent. You will acquire profound knowledge of economic and political relations at global level that will boost opportunities in Africa. Furthermore, you will get insight in lobbyist and focus group power, and the influence and interdependent role of power blocs such as the EU, the US and China. The project will be concluded by participating in a global conference in which you and your fellow students will represent a power bloc and its stance on the development of the African continent.
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European Policy Making (5 ECTS credits)
This course gives you a thorough understanding of the decision making processes in the European Union and the interests and goals of the various players in the Brussels arena: EU institutions, governments of member states and non-member states, experts and lobby groups. It provides a solid introduction to the European Union, European laws and regulations and comprehensive European law enforcement. Equally, you will gain considerable insight into European competition law and the single market. As both European law and European political reality are changing every day, lectures will focus on topical developments 'as they happen'.This course gives you a thorough understanding of the decision making processes in the European Union and the interests and goals of the various players in the Brussels arena: EU institutions, governments of member states and non-member states, experts and lobby groups. It provides a solid introduction to the European Union, European laws and regulations and comprehensive European law enforcement. Equally, you will gain considerable insight into European competition law and the single market. As both European law and European political reality are changing every day, lectures will focus on topical developments 'as they happen'.
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Critical Thinking (5 ECTS credits)
Learning and innovation skills increasingly are being recognized as those that separate students who are prepared for a more and more complex life and work environments in the 21st century, and those who are not. A focus on creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration is essential to prepare you for the future. Hence, this course focuses on different techniques for creativity and critical thinking. It will also deepen your insight into distinguishing between ‘real’ and ‘fake’ news and make up your mind about topical affairs and your own stance on them.
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Diplomatic Communication (5 ECTS credits)
This module will equip you with language tools that help you become a global citizen. You will acquire practical knowledge of professional English that can be used in a political and economic setting. This entails proper negotiating and report writing skills in English. During the lectures, you will learn to correctly interact in professional (business) settings and you will improve your pronunciation in English. Oral and negotiation skills will be explained and subsequently practiced, in order to get you ready for the final 'conference'. Moreover, you will be able to apply business etiquette practices, such as communicating with clients, politicians and professionals.
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Professional Development (5 ECTS credits)
This module is aimed at providing you with the right set of competencies to become a starting international diplomat. It is vital that you work individually to attain these competencies and to meet your personal goals. As part of this programme, you are stimulated to e.g. join conferences, bilateral meetings and to fulfil duties during activities at Windesheim. You will also gain insight into best practices in international relations theories, and you will take part in an exciting virtual project that will surely boost your confidence in international relations and international project management.
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Elective modules
Complete your exchange semester or year by taking one or two cross-departmental modules. You will receive ECTS credits when you complete a module successfully.
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Course catalogue
Want to know more about the exchange programme of International Relations? Check the course catalogue for more information about matters such as assessment and teaching methods.
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Project 1: European affairs (5 ECTS credits)
Requirements and application
You are required to have two years of Bachelor’s study experience in a related field and English-language skills at B2 level.
Practical information
Academic Calendar Finance
Housing Visa Facilities
Credits and Grading Partnerships
Learning Agreement
The Learning Agreement is a crucial document for the recognition of a study period abroad. It is an agreement between you, your university and Windesheim. When you decide to do an exchange programme at Windesheim, you have to create a Learning Agreement that includes the respective courses of the exchange programme. Learn more on how to set up the Learning Agreement for your specific exchange programme at Windesheim.
Want to know more?
Questions about studying at Windesheim? Contact the International Office via +31 884699777 or email(opens in new tab).
Any questions about the content of this programme? Get in touch with Jamilla ter Steege by email(opens in new tab).
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