International relations not only seeks to explain how individuals engage with one another when their actions are directed towards inhabitants of other nations, but also aims to describe how governments interact with one another in the global interstate system.
Universities in Nigeria require four (4) years to complete a bachelor’s degree in international relations.
Best Universities to Study International Relations in Nigeria
Below are the best universities to study international relations in Nigeria
Covenant University
Covenant University is hands-down the best place in Nigeria to study international relations. Located in Ota, Ogun State, this private Christian university offers top-notch programs focused on diplomacy, conflict resolution, and global policy.
This 4-year BA program provides a broad understanding of global issues and politics. You’ll take courses on topics like:
- Diplomacy and Foreign Policy
- International Law and Organization
- Strategic Studies
- Regional Integration
The program also includes internships at places like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, giving you valuable real-world experience.
For graduate study, Covenant offers an MS in International Relations. This 2-year program allows you to concentrate in areas such as:
- Peace and Conflict Studies
- Diplomacy and Foreign Policy
- International Political Economy
You’ll develop strong research and analytical skills to prepare you for leadership roles in government, NGOs, and global organizations.
With accomplished faculty, international partnerships, and a Christian worldview, Covenant provides an exceptional education in international relations. If you want to gain a global perspective and help shape the future of international politics, this is the place to start.
University of Ibadan
The University of Ibadan in Nigeria has the oldest international relations program in the country, established in 1948. This prestigious university is a pioneer for strategic studies and diplomacy in West Africa.
As Nigeria’s premier university, UI offers an enriching learning environment with experienced professors and opportunities to participate in impactful research. The international relations curriculum provides a strong overview of global issues and dynamics. You’ll take courses on topics like:
- Global politics and governance
- International law and organizations
- Conflict resolution and crisis management
- Foreign policy analysis
UI’s prestigious Center for Peace and Strategic Studies also provides opportunities for hands-on learning and networking.
With UI’s long legacy of excellence, studying international relations here will open you up to a world of opportunities. You’ll gain knowledge and skills to work in government agencies, nonprofits, media, and global companies. An IR degree from UI demonstrates your intellectual capacity and competence on the global stage.
If you want to be at the forefront of global affairs and make a difference, UI’s international relations program will give you a world-class education and set you on the path to success. This prestigious, long-standing program cultivates leaders and critical thinkers ready to take on challenges of international diplomacy and cooperation.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University
Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra state is an affordable option if you want to study international relations and strategic studies in Nigeria.
Established in 1991, UNIZIK is named after Nigeria’s first president, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. It has a prestigious Faculty of Social Sciences with programs in Political Science, International Relations, Strategic Studies, and other related fields.
The Department of Political Science and International Relations offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in International Relations and Strategic Studies. You’ll take courses on diplomacy, foreign policy analysis, peace and conflict resolution, defense studies, and more. The faculty has highly qualified lecturers and professors with expertise in African politics, international law, and security studies.
UNIZIK has modern classrooms, well-equipped libraries, online course materials, and opportunities for student exchange programs abroad. Tuition fees are cheap compared to some private universities. If you’re looking for an excellent but budget-friendly school for international relations in Nigeria, Nnamdi Azikiwe University deserves your consideration.
Babcock University
The Seventh- day Adventist Church in Nigeria owns and runs Babcock University, a private, coeducational Christian university in Nigeria. The university is situated halfway between Ibadan and Lagos in the Nigerian state of Ogun.
It is also a good university to undergo the study of international relations. The Department of Political Science and International Relations offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in International Relations and Strategic Studies.
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FAQ’s
So you want to study international relations in Nigeria, but aren’t sure which university is the best fit? Below are some of the frequently asked questions and answers
1. Do I need a degree in International Relations to work in diplomacy or international organizations?
A degree in International Relations, Strategic Studies or a related field is typically required for most careers in diplomacy and international organizations. While some entry-level positions may accept any bachelor’s degree and relevant experience, higher level roles usually prefer or require a master’s degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Development Studies or related areas of study.
2. What can I do with an International Relations degree?
An International Relations degree prepares you for various careers like:
- Diplomat
- Policy analyst
- International aid/development worker
- Human rights officer
- Journalist
- Consultant
You can find job opportunities with governments, nonprofits, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), think tanks, and private companies.
3. What are the top schools for International Relations in Nigeria?
Some of the best universities in Nigeria to study International Relations and Strategic Studies include:
- University of Lagos
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Ibadan
- Covenant University
- Babcock University
These schools offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in International Relations, Strategic Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, and Diplomacy.