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BS in International & Political Affairs

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Bachelor of Science

International & Political Affairs

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About the Bs in International & Political Affairs

The Bachelor of Science in International & Political Affairs at Missouri Southern State University focuses on the systematic analysis of global political systems, policy development, and international issues. This program is designed for students who want to take a more structured and analytical approach to understanding political behavior and global challenges.

The BS emphasizes research methods, critical analysis of data and policy, and applied problem-solving in political and international contexts. This prepares students for careers in government, intelligence, security, policy analysis, and other data-informed fields, as well as graduate study.

Emphases Available in the Bs program

  • General Emphasis
  • Social Science Education Emphasis
  • International Relations Emphasis 
  • Political Science Emphasis

Is the BS in IPA Right for You?

The BS in International & Political Affairs is a strong fit if you’re interested in global political systems, policy analysis, and a more structured, research-based approach to international issues.

This program may be right for you if you:

  • Want to work in government, intelligence, security, or policy analysis
  • Are interested in studying political systems through research and evidence-based methods
  • Plan to pursue graduate or professional programs that require strong analytical or research skills
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What You'll Learn in the IPA Program

In the BS in International & Political Affairs at Missouri Southern State University, you’ll develop an analytical understanding of global political systems, policy, and international issues.

  • Analyze political systems, governments, and global institutions
  • Examine international relations and diplomacy through research-based approaches
  • Evaluate global social, cultural, and economic issues
  • Apply research methods and critical analysis to public policy
  • Assess the impact of policy decisions in real-world contexts

International & Political Affairs Careers

A BS in International & Political Affairs at Missouri Southern State University prepares students for careers in government, policy analysis, international organizations, and public service. The program builds skills in research, analytical thinking, and applied understanding of global systems.

Graduates often work as:

  • Policy analyst or legislative assistant
  • Intelligence or security support specialist
  • Government or public affairs coordinator
  • NGO or nonprofit program analyst
  • International relations or research assistant

Graduates also pursue graduate study in law, political science, public policy, or international relations.


Curriculum & Courses 

This program offers three emphasis areas. View full course requirements in the catalog:

Program Format, Location & Schedule

  • Format: On campus, hybrid, or online
  • Location: Joplin, Missouri
  • Pace: Full-time (part-time options may be available)
  • Time to Completion: Typically 4 years
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