BA in International Relations – Strategic Intelligence
Gather, Analyze, and Defend with a Bachelor’s in International Relations- Strategic Intelligence Studies
Liberty University’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) in International Relations – Strategic Intelligence Studies can help prepare you to be a valuable asset in America’s defense against attacks both in the U.S. and abroad.
- Discover how to collect and analyze intelligence gathered from many different sources.
- Explore how organizations like the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and the Department of Homeland Security are hard at work every day anticipating the actions of our enemies and creating a safe environment for hard-working Americans.
- Prepare for an exciting career as an intelligence analyst or federal agent.
- Study the different types of military intelligence that keep service members safe on the battlefield.
Because of our special relationship with and close proximity to government offices in Washington D.C. and the surrounding area, there are opportunities to gain real-life experience by interning at intelligence-related agencies. There are internships with the Washington Fellowship, and as part of GOVT 499, all juniors and seniors majoring in international relations who have met the proper requirements can have the opportunity to spend a semester as an intern with an approved organization in their respective disciplines.
Credit Hours
View CoursesNext start date: Aug 18, 2025
Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC
Highlights
Highlights of Our Bachelor’s in International Relations Degree
Train with Real-World Intelligence Simulations
As an international relations student at Liberty, you can take part in a strategic intelligence simulation that offers a rare and exciting opportunity to engage in high-level analysis. This exercise is observed by officials from federal intelligence agencies, giving you a glimpse into the practical challenges and expectations of the field, and a chance to showcase your skills to professionals already working in it.
Pursue Internships in Washington, D.C.
Through Liberty’s Washington Fellowship program and the GOVT 499 course, you’ll have access to internships with government agencies and policy organizations in the nation’s capital. These experiences can help you build your resume, develop professional skills, and make connections that may open doors to future career opportunities in public service, foreign affairs, or national security.
Build Community Through the Liberty International Affairs Society
At Liberty, learning doesn’t stop in the classroom. By joining the Liberty International Affairs Society, you can engage with peers who share your passion for global issues, diplomacy, and policy. This student-led group provides academic support, networking opportunities, and meaningful discussions that enrich your education and expand your worldview.
Earn Recognition Through Pi Sigma Alpha
You’ll also have the opportunity to join Pi Sigma Alpha, the only national honor society for students studying government and political science. As a recognized member of the Association of College Honor Societies, this organization celebrates academic excellence and helps prepare you for graduate school or professional roles in international relations and political analysis.
Career Potential
What Can You Do with an International Relations – Strategic Intelligence Studies Degree?
Liberty University’s Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a specialization in Strategic Intelligence Studies can help prepare you to pursue the following occupations:
- Foreign service officer
- Federal agent (CIA, FBI, DEA, etc.)
- Intelligence analyst
- Diplomat
#4 Best College Campus in America
At Liberty, you’ll find an affordable, high-quality education designed to help equip students like you for the real world. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition as the #4 Best College Campus in America by Niche.com.
Earning your degree from a nonprofit university with state-of-the-art resources like ours can help set you apart from your peers.
Courses
What Will You Study in Our Bachelor’s in International Relations – Strategic Intelligence Degree?
The core curriculum of our international relations bachelor’s degree can provide training in constitutional government and the free enterprise system. You can also study political geography and theory. Our specialization in strategic intelligence studies can increase your knowledge of intelligence, how it is gathered and analyzed, and how to make informed decisions on the use of military and civilian assets.
Throughout this degree, you can learn by studying some of the failures and successes in intelligence gathering. You can also learn how to integrate your Christian worldview into applying ethical standards on the use of human assets and how to best conduct yourself in intelligence-related operations.
Featured International Relations Courses
GOVT 380 – Introduction to Intelligence and National Security
GOVT 381 – Intelligence Analysis
GOVT 483 – Military Operations and Intelligence
GOVT 487 – Ethics in Intelligence
Degree Information
- This program falls under the Helms School of Government
- View the Degree Completion Plan
- Check out our course catalog
- Transfer in up to 75% of the degree total
BENEFITS
Why Choose Liberty’s International Relations – Strategic Intelligence Studies Bachelor’s Degree?
Experts with Real-World Intelligence Experience
At Liberty, your education in international relations is guided by faculty who bring more than just textbook knowledge to the classroom. Many of our professors have worked for the White House, government agencies, and congressional offices, giving you insider insight into the workings of national and international affairs. Their mentorship can help you develop the skills and perspective needed for success in the intelligence field.
Take Part in High-Level Research Opportunities
Liberty’s Strategic Intelligence students can participate in the Advanced Intelligence Analysis Project, which was awarded the Provost Research Initiative Grant. Through this project, students contribute open-source research to the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), gaining firsthand experience in real-world intelligence analysis. It’s an opportunity to apply your knowledge in a setting that truly matters.
Pursue Internships That Launch Careers
Thanks to our proximity to Washington, D.C., and our strong government partnerships, you’ll have access to exciting internship opportunities that can shape your future. Past students have interned with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, House Committee on Homeland Security, U.S. Department of State, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Israeli Embassy, among others. These experiences allow you to build a professional network while gaining practical skills.
Get Involved in Student Societies and Professional Development
As an international relations student, you can join the Liberty International Affairs Society and the Strategic Intelligence Society, student-led groups that promote career readiness, critical thinking, and networking. These societies offer you a platform to engage with peers, analyze global events, and prepare for roles in the intelligence community, foreign service, or government policy.
Admissions
How Do You Become a BA in International Relations Student?
Every application is reviewed by the admission committee on a case-by-case basis, meaning there are no set minimums for acceptance. However, all applicants must submit the following documents* for admission:
- Admission application
- Official high school transcripts
- Official college transcripts (if applicable)
- Admission essay
Results from the CLT, SAT, or ACT are not required for admission, but may be used in consideration for merit-based aid.
*Note that additional documentation may be requested by the admission committee after your application has been received.
Have Questions?
We’ll make sure you have the information you need to take your next step.