Degree Profile

International Relations

Psychometric analysis of the typical student profile.

Last reviewed: January 2025
Research-backed analysis

Average IQ Estimate

119

Based on SAT/GRE correlation data.

Dominant Archetype

The Diplomat

Executive summary

International Relations is a filtering environment. It rewards certain strengths (and exposes certain weaknesses). Use this as a self-selection tool.

Dominant archetype

Dominant archetype: The Diplomat. This archetype tends to be rewarded in the culture and study style of International Relations.

Common traits include Global Thinking and Cultural Intelligence.

If you love systems, abstraction, and building mental models, International Relations can feel addictive. If you prefer immediate social reward, it can feel isolating.

Typical career paths include Foreign Service, NGOs, and Consulting.

Common Traits

Global Thinking
Cultural Intelligence

Career Outcomes

  • Foreign Service
  • NGOs
  • Consulting

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People Also Ask: International Relations

What is the average IQ of International Relations majors?+

Estimated average IQ is ~119. This is a rough proxy derived from standardized-test correlations; it’s not a hard requirement for success.

Is International Relations hard?+

It’s hard if the feedback loop taxes your weaknesses. If you enjoy deep focus and structured problem-solving, the same workload can feel manageable—sometimes even enjoyable.

What kind of person enjoys International Relations?+

Common traits include Global Thinking and Cultural Intelligence.

What careers can International Relations lead to?+

Typical career paths include Foreign Service, NGOs, and Consulting.

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