2026 Best Colleges for International Relations

We rigorously analyzed a host of variables to determine what colleges and universities offer the best International Relations programs in America. The list includes 329 programs and you can sort by average salary, debt, acceptance rate and more to hone in on the the best programs for you.

If you’re still wondering whether International Relations is the right field of study for you, check out our guide to majoring in International Relations: what you can do with the major, how much you’ll make, and more.

For the purposes of these rankings we prioritized earnings after graduation 6 years and 10 years out for students that majored in International Relations. Please note that earnings are one metric of success that can be used to judge a International Relations program, but are by no means the best or only option. However, because this variable is provided by the vast majority of universities offering International Relations we used it as the primary method or ordering the best universities for International Relations.

By scrolling all the way through the list you’ll find every college or university that offers a International Relations in America.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Universities offering International Relations Majors and Degrees

What is the best university for majoring in International Relations?

Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey is the best university for majoring in International Relations based on earnings data. On average, graduates from Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey earned an average of $63,328 2 years after graduating.

What is the cheapest university for majoring in International Relations?

University of North Georgia is the cheapest university for majoring in International Relations based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $4,403 to attend University of North Georgia.

What is the most expensive university for majoring in International Relations?

University of Chicago is the most expensive university for majoring in International Relations based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $51,351 to attend University of Chicago.