Majors
Minors
For Current Students
It’s the 21st century, and the world is changing rapidly. Global technologies, threats to international security, fundamentalist movements, and mounting tensions between nations, regions, and factions mean that the study of international relations is more relevant than ever.
Students in the Department of International Affairs at Lewis & Clark examine the political, military, economic, legal, and cultural relations involving states, nations, international organizations, and NGOs, and seek to understand how they affect the prospects for conflict and cooperation.
Unlike many other International Relations programs that are contained within Political Science, our Department is free-standing, allowing students to study the multifaceted dimensions of international relations in the depth they deserve and demand. Though the scope of the coursework is broad, emphasis is placed on foreign policy, national security, international law and organizations, international economic relations, social justice and transnational advocacy, human rights, and development in the global south.
Our current students are active in international affairs. On campus, they organize the International Affairs Symposium, participate in Model United Nations, conduct research with faculty, and edit our student journal, The Meridian. Off campus, they hold jobs and internships in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, both domestically and abroad. Our students win awards and alumni and alumnae pursue fascinating careers.
They’re keenly aware of the world around them, and whether they go on to work in public service, journalism, education, business, or government, our students bring with them a deep knowledge of the dynamics of this new century.
News
63rd Annual Symposium | Justice or Security: Rethinking Global Priorities
This year’s symposium is titled Justice or Security: Rethinking Global Priorities. Learn about some of the most pressing issues in international relations through a dynamic and engaging debate format.
Change, Constancy and Conflict: Lewis & Clark’s International Affairs Symposium, 1965-2025
A new exhibit running from April-December 2025 explores the remarkable history of Lewis & Clark College’s longest-running student-organized academic event: the International Affairs Symposium.
Exploring Global Trade: A Fulbright Year in Kenya
Caroline Gray BA ’17 spent a transformative year in Nairobi as a U.S. Fulbright Scholar, forging academic partnerships and exploring the geopolitical forces shaping international trade. Now back in the U.S., she reflects on the experience that deepened her understanding of international relations.
International Affairs is located in John R. Howard Hall on the Undergraduate Campus.
MSC: 36
email iaffairs@lclark.edu
voice 503-768-7630
Chair Bob Mandel
International Affairs
Lewis & Clark
615 S. Palatine Hill Road
Portland OR 97219