The major prepares students for a variety of careers in government, non-governmental organizations, or the corporate sector. This degree is designed to accommodate pre-professional interests and students seeking careers in such fields as diplomacy, international security, humanitarian and technical assistance, international education, international trade, and public affairs. These would include opportunities in such areas as foreign service or a variety of U.S. government agencies; international agencies, including those associated with the United Nations, and international financial institutions; the growing number of non-governmental organizations working internationally, including humanitarian, relief, educational, exchange, and technical assistance groups, as well as international associations of various interest groups, businesses, and professions; and the international business sector, which includes a growing number of opportunities in areas ranging from risk analysis to international public affairs and governmental relations positions.

The IR major at the University of Arkansas is also designed to provide students with the curriculum and educational background required for admission to graduate programs in international relations and related fields.