International Relations and Diplomacy (B.Sc.)

Course Overview

The B.Sc. International Relations and Diplomacy programme provides a thorough grounding in global affairs, foreign policy analysis, international law, diplomacy, and regional politics. Students gain practical understanding of how states, organisations, and actors interact on the global stage and acquire the skills to critically engage with issues such as conflict, cooperation, development, and governance.

The curriculum integrates academic theory with practical diplomacy, ensuring students are equipped to engage with real-world political and diplomatic challenges. Graduates are trained to be analytical, ethical, and globally aware professionals prepared to contribute to national development and international peace-building efforts.

This multidisciplinary programme combines political science, international law, economics, history, and foreign languages to provide students with a well-rounded education in global affairs. Students are introduced to the evolution of international systems, major political ideologies, global governance, strategic studies, and contemporary diplomatic practice. Emphasis is placed on African politics, Nigeria’s foreign policy, and the continent’s place in world affairs.

In addition to theoretical foundations, students will engage in simulations, case studies, and research projects to build practical diplomatic skills. Courses such as Theory and Practice of Diplomacy, International Institutions, and Sustainable Development Practices in Nigeria offer hands-on understanding of global political dynamics. A strong leadership focus through Salem’s TLTC modules and a compulsory French language component position students for international competitiveness.

Course detail

AWARD TITLE

B.Sc.

START DATE

September 2025

DURATION

4 years

STUDY MODE

Full-time

CAMPUS

Nigeria, Lokoja

Teaching and Learning

The programme blends academic knowledge with practical applications and leadership training.

Learning Methods:

  • Formal lectures and small group tutorials

  • Case studies and real-world scenarios

  • Field trips and diplomatic simulations

  • Group and individual research projects

  • French language and communication training

  • Leadership seminars (TLTC)

  • Industrial training (SIWES) and practicum

Assessment Structure:

  • Coursework (assignments, tests, and term papers)

  • Written examinations

  • Oral presentations and group work

  • Research projects and thesis

  • Practical demonstrations and field reports

  • Participation in diplomatic simulations and policy debates

Modules

  1. Ancestors of the Contemporary International System: Covers early systems of international relations including Chou, Greek City States, Renaissance Italy, and more, leading to the modern state system.
  2. Introduction to African Politics: Analyzes Africa’s political struggles, colonial legacies, leadership dynamics, and role in international relations.
  3. Introduction to International Relations: Introduces international relations theories, actors, diplomacy, disarmament, power balance, and global cooperation.
  4. Introduction to Foreign Policy: Explores the development, determinants, and analytical methods of foreign policy and the role of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  5. Introduction to Political Science: Examines the science of politics—concepts of power, authority, political systems, and governance.
  6. Introduction to French: Equips students with foundational and academic French skills, necessary for careers in diplomacy.
  7. Introduction to Political Analysis: Focuses on political systems, governance structures, leadership styles, and citizen participation.
  8. Theory and Practice of Diplomacy: Teaches negotiation, foreign policy implementation, embassy operations, public diplomacy, and economic diplomacy.
  9. International Economic Relations: Explores international trade, monetary agencies, multinational corporations, WTO, and global economic policies.
  10. The International Political System: Details the structure of international systems, political relationships, global leadership, war, and peace mechanisms.
  11. Law of Nations (International Law): Discusses the sources, enforcement, and limitations of international law with emphasis on institutions like the ICJ.
  12. International Politics in the Post-Cold War Era: Explores post-Cold War international dynamics, peacekeeping, disarmament, and Africa’s geopolitical role.
  13. Politics of Development and Underdevelopment: Analyzes theories of development, modernization, dependency, and real-world development strategies in emerging economies.
  14. Women in Politics: Examines the role, barriers, and empowerment of women in politics, with focus on Nigeria and Kogi State.
  15. International Politics of Africa: Focuses on Africa’s interactions with great powers and organisations like the ADB, UN, and global trade bodies.
  16. Theories of International Relations: Covers power dynamics, conflict theories, linkage politics, simulation models, and balance of power concepts.
  17. Integration Theories and Regionalism: Teaches federalism, neo-functionalism, inter-governmentalism, and regional integration frameworks.
  18. Sustainable Development Practices in Nigeria: Studies sustainable development concepts, public sector roles, the SDGs, and Nigeria’s development planning.
  19. Foreign Policy Analysis: Focuses on the aims and decisions behind foreign policy with historical case studies like the Cuban Missile Crisis.
  20. Nigerian Foreign Policy: Reviews Nigeria’s foreign policy evolution, especially with the UN, ECOWAS, and global powers.
  21. Contemporary Strategic Studies: Discusses global strategic doctrines such as deterrence and military policy shifts since 1945.
  22. International Institutions: Explores the evolution, structure, and function of major international institutions like the UN, ECOWAS, and AU.

Career

Graduates can work in:

  • Foreign service (diplomats, embassy staff)

  • International organisations (UN, AU, ECOWAS, NGOs)

  • Public policy and governance

  • Journalism and international media

  • Think tanks and research institutions

  • Election monitoring agencies

  • International law and advocacy

  • Development agencies and foreign missions

  • Political risk analysis firms

  • Academic and research institutions

Entry Requirements

Applicants must meet the following:

  • Minimum of five (5) O’Level credits in WASSCE/NECO/GCE at not more than two sittings

Direct Entry (200 Level):
Candidates with A-Level or equivalent qualifications.

Candidates applying for admission into 100 level undergraduate programmes must possess a minimum of five (5) ‘O’ level credit passes at not more than two (2) sittings in WASC, GCE, NECO or its equivalent. Awaiting result is also accepted.

  1. JAMB UTME result print-out.
  2. SSCE/NECO Result (Awaiting Result Accepted).
  3. Two Passport Photographs.
  4. A Letter of Sponsorship, stating the commitment to pay the prescribed fees.
  5. National Identification Number (NIN)
  6. A Reference Letter from a spiritual mentor, vouching for your character

Candidates applying for Direct Entry into 200 level must possess the following

  1. Jamb direct entry form
  2. A/L, IJMB, OND or NCE in the relevant courses.
  3. SSCE/NECO Result (Awaiting Result Accepted)
  4. Two Passport Photographs.
  5. A Letter of Sponsorship, stating the commitment to pay the prescribed fees.
  6. National Identification Number (NIN)
  7. A Reference Letter from a spiritual mentor, vouching for your character.

Fees and Funding

The course fees you’ll pay and the funding available to you depends on factors such as your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying. Visit the links below to find the Undergraduate section.

 
More information

Find out about grants, bursaries, scholarships and living costs in our undergraduate taught fees and funding section.

Get Inspired

Our alumni are breaking boundaries and redefining success. Read their stories and get inspired to start your own journey.

Ready to Apply?

Take the first step towards your academic future at Salem University