The Best IBDP Subject Combinations for Politics and International Relations
Would you like to study Politics or International Relations after the IBDP? Your decisions about your subjects may be used in supporting the development of the skills of critical thinking, research, communication and analysis necessary for university studies of political systems and of global affairs.
There are no fixed combinations of subjects which are best for IBDP Politics and International Relations. Students are advised to check with their university for their requirement before finalising their choices of HL and SL. It is also advisable to pay attention to subjects which may be required by the specific university and to career ambitions and the required HL/SL balance when choosing subjects.
What IB Subject(s) are Suitable for Politics and International Relations?
Global Politics HL may be combined with a relevant language or with History HL and Economics.
This offers a wide range of academic training on political institutions, developments, economic forces and an international perspective.
Can Global Politics HL be useful to International Relations?
Yes. Global Politics HL is directly relevant to students interested in International Relations.
This is the IB course examined this year, which is: Power, sovereignty, international relations, human rights, development, peace and conflict. It also encourages research and analysis in the context of real world political issues and a range of viewpoints.
But Global Politics is not compulsory for all Politics or International Relations degree courses.
Why Consider History HL?
History HL can be very useful because students need to have knowledge of how current institutions, conflicts and relationships have evolved in the past in Politics and International Relations.
History also builds in students the ability to present arguments, interpret and evaluate various viewpoints, which are skills that are transferable to political study in university.
Should I take Economics HL?
Economics HL may be taken alongside Politics and International Relations to gain insight into trade, markets, development and government policy and the economic determinants of international decision-making.
It may be applicable to students who are interested in international political economy, public policy, diplomacy or global development.
Are Languages Important for International Relations?
For students who would like to pursue careers related to diplomacy, international organisations or careers that involve communication across borders, another language such as Language B may be a good option.
Language learning can also facilitate an understanding of various cultures and viewpoints.
Possible IBDP Combinations by Career Goal
International Relations: Global Politics, History and Economics is an AP course designed to equip students with an understanding of global politics, historical analysis, and economics.
- Diplomacy: Game of Global Politics, History and a relevant language.
- Political Science: Global Politics, History and Economics or Philosophy.
- International Development: Economics, Global Politics & Geography.
- Human Rights: Global Politics, History & Philosophy.
This course focuses on the relationship between economics, global politics, and mathematics on the international level.
Choosing Politics Subjects in Dubai
For students choosing IBDP subjects in Dubai and the UAE, it is important to take into account your choice of university in the UAE and other places including UK, USA, Canada and Europe.
Students may consult IB Scholars to advise them on the combination of subjects that they have chosen for the IBDP, taking into account their strengths, career interests, and IB programme and/or university requirements.
FAQs
What are the best IB subjects for International Relations?
All of the above are relevant preparatory subjects at the global level: Politics, History, Economics and relevant languages.
Is Global Politics HL necessary for studying International Relations?
Not necessarily. University requirements differ.
Can history be of service to politics?
Yes. Develops research, evidence evaluation and analytical argumentation.
Can IB Scholars assist in the selection of subjects for Politics?
Yes. At IB Scholars in Dubai and the UAE, students are supported to plan subjects for the IBDP for university and career objectives.
Stuck with IBDP in the UAE? Reach out to IB Scholars now!
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