International Relations Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of globalization, the role of international relations professors is increasingly crucial.

As the world becomes more interconnected, the need for experts who can comprehend, analyze, and instruct on global political dynamics grows stronger.

But what are the actual responsibilities of an international relations professor?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring academic seeking to understand the details of this position,
• A department head drafting the perfect job description,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of international relations,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a flexible international relations professor job description template, created for effortless posting on academic job boards or university career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

International Relations Professor Duties and Responsibilities

International Relations Professors teach students about the intricacies of relationships between countries, including the political, economic, and cultural aspects.

They also conduct research in their area of expertise and contribute to the academic community.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and delivering lectures on a range of topics within the field of International Relations
• Preparing, administering, and grading examinations to assess student understanding and progress
• Conducting research to stay current with developments in their field and publishing their findings in academic journals and books
• Attending and presenting at international conferences and seminars
• Supervising students’ independent or group projects, providing guidance and feedback
• Advising students on career paths, internship opportunities, and further education within the field of International Relations
• Contributing to the development of the curriculum, including creating new courses and updating existing ones
• Providing administrative support within the department, such as participating in committee work or curriculum planning

 

International Relations Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable International Relations Professor to join our faculty.

As an International Relations Professor, you will be responsible for teaching courses in international politics, political science, and global affairs.

Your responsibilities will include developing course syllabus, providing instruction, and grading student performance.

The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of international affairs, global politics and an ability to engage and inspire students.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative instructional methods to engage students.
• Evaluate, monitor and mentor student academic progress.
• Create, innovate and implement career-enhancement programs and activities.
• Conduct research in field of expertise and publish findings in academic journals.
• Participate in departmental and college activities.
• Organize and manage student exchange programs and study tours.
• Conduct seminars and workshops for students.
• Maintain a positive learning environment in the classroom.

 

Qualifications

• PhD in International Relations, Political Science, or a closely related field.
• Proven experience as a professor in the field of International Relations.
• Strong record of research and publications in reputable academic journals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong commitment to teaching and student advising.
• Experience with curriculum development and assessment.
• Ability to work cooperatively with faculty, staff, and students.

 

Benefits

• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: International Relations Professor
• Work Environment: University campus. Occasional travel may be required for academic conferences or field research.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $72,000 minimum to $135,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of three references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an International Relations Professor Do?

An International Relations Professor is an academic who teaches and conducts research at a university or college in the field of international relations.

They design and deliver lectures on various topics related to international relations such as global politics, international law, human rights, and the dynamics of international economic systems.

They also guide and supervise students in their projects, theses, and dissertations.

Apart from teaching, they conduct independent research, author scholarly articles and books, and present findings at academic conferences and seminars.

They may also contribute to the development of the curriculum and participate in departmental meetings and committees.

Moreover, they often engage in peer review processes and may take on administrative tasks within their institutions.

International Relations Professors can also be asked to provide commentary or analysis on current international events to the media or other external bodies.

This role requires a comprehensive understanding of global issues and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly to students and the public.

 

International Relations Professor Qualifications and Skills

An International Relations Professor should have the skills and qualifications that align with the role, such as:

• Deep understanding and knowledge of international relations theories, global politics, geopolitical issues, and diplomacy to instruct students effectively and answer their queries.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to clearly express complex ideas, concepts, and theories to students, and to publish scholarly articles and research papers.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with students, faculty members, and administrative staff, and to collaborate on research projects and academic initiatives.
• Research skills and the ability to conduct detailed studies on a range of topics in international relations, such as conflict resolution, international law, or human rights.
• Critical thinking and analytical skills to evaluate current events and international policies, and to contribute to the academic discourse on global affairs.
• Teaching skills to deliver engaging lectures, facilitate student discussions, and effectively assess student performance.
• Time management skills to balance teaching responsibilities, research work, academic advising, and administrative tasks.
• PhD in International Relations or a closely related field is usually required for this role.

 

International Relations Professor Experience Requirements

The path to becoming an International Relations Professor typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in international relations or a related field, followed by a master’s degree and ultimately a doctoral degree (PhD).

The doctoral program involves specialized training in various aspects of international relations and involves both theoretical and practical research work.

Initial teaching experience is usually gained during the doctoral program, where candidates may have the opportunity to teach or assist in teaching undergraduate courses.

This allows them to gain invaluable experience in delivering lectures, creating and marking assessments, and managing a classroom.

After achieving their PhD, candidates typically start their careers in academia as postdoctoral researchers or assistant professors.

This provides an opportunity to further deepen their understanding of international relations, conduct research, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Experience requirements for an International Relations Professor role usually includes a track record of successful teaching at the university level and a strong portfolio of research work.

Most universities require at least 5 to 7 years of teaching experience, along with a significant number of published research papers.

Furthermore, a prospective International Relations Professor may be required to have experience in applying for and obtaining research funding, supervising students at the undergraduate, masters, or doctoral level, and participating in academic committees and departmental management.

Professors seeking to advance in their careers may be required to have additional years of experience, a large body of published work, and demonstrated leadership within their academic institution or field of research.

 

International Relations Professor Education and Training Requirements

International Relations Professors typically require a Ph.D. in international relations or a closely related field.

This advanced degree generally requires a minimum of five to seven years of postgraduate study, including the completion of a doctoral dissertation.

During their doctoral studies, prospective professors often specialize in a particular area of international relations such as global economics, international law, comparative politics, or security studies.

In addition to their educational qualifications, International Relations Professors are often expected to have a strong publication record in reputable academic journals.

Prior teaching experience, whether as a teaching assistant during their doctoral studies or in other academic settings, is usually highly valued.

Some institutions may also require a demonstrated ability to attract research funding.

While not always necessary, proficiency in one or more foreign languages can be an asset due to the global nature of the field.

Continuing professional development and staying abreast of current international relations research and issues are also important aspects of the role.

 

International Relations Professor Salary Expectations

An International Relations Professor earns an average salary of $78,492 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, the prestige of the institution, and the region in which they are employed.

 

International Relations Professor Job Description FAQs

What educational qualifications are required to become an International Relations Professor?

Most universities require International Relations Professors to have a Doctorate degree in International Relations or a related field.

Some universities also ask for work experience in the field of international relations.

Prior teaching experience can also be advantageous.

 

What are the daily duties of an International Relations Professor?

An International Relations Professor typically spends their day teaching and preparing lectures for students.

They also spend significant time researching and writing academic papers, attending academic conferences, and conducting seminars.

Besides, they may also hold office hours to advise and support students.

 

What skills does an International Relations Professor need?

An International Relations Professor should have excellent communication skills to convey complex topics to students effectively.

They should possess analytical and critical thinking skills to analyze international events and relations.

They also need excellent research and writing skills to publish academic papers in their area of expertise.

 

How can one improve their chances of becoming an International Relations Professor?

Beyond acquiring a Doctorate degree, gaining relevant work experience in the field of international relations could significantly improve one’s chances.

Regularly publishing academic papers, participating in international relations conferences, and gaining teaching experience can also be advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good International Relations Professor?

A good International Relations Professor has a deep understanding and knowledge of international relations, is passionate about teaching, and has the ability to inspire students.

They should be open-minded and possess strong cultural awareness, given the global nature of the subject.

They should also have patience and empathy to guide students effectively.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Today, we have delved deep into the intricate world of an International Relations Professor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about lecturing.

It’s about shaping the global perspective, one class at a time.

With our efficient International Relations Professor job description template and genuine examples, you are ready to step forward.

But why draw the line here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next move towards meticulously-created listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Keep this in mind:

Every lecture is a piece of the global puzzle.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become an International Relations Professor (Complete Guide)

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