FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the School’s curriculum like?
The Whitehead School’s curriculum is uniquely designed to prepare students to become tomorrow’s leaders. The course of study is rigorous and spans several disciplines: political science, history, economics, modern languages, regional studies, among others. Students must complete one professional internship and become proficient in at least one foreign language. While not required for the degree, overseas internships and study abroad are strongly encouraged. These combined skills and experiences provide our graduates with a solid understanding of international relations and diplomacy, and prepare them to pursue successful careers or further study in the field.

Is there flexibility within the curriculum (for minors/double majors, etc.)?
The coursework required for a Bachelor of Science degree in Diplomacy and International Relations is comprehensive and interdisciplinary. Many of the courses taken as part of the Diplomacy curriculum may be counted towards minors in several disciplines, such as Asian studies, economics, history, Italian studies, modern languages and political science. While a double major involves a considerable number of additional courses, students must use their own discretion and the advice and direction provided by the School’s administration and faculty.

How does the five year program work?
The B.S./M.A. in Diplomacy and International Relations program allows students in the undergraduate program in Diplomacy and International Relations to earn both a Bachelor of Science degree and a 45 credit Master’s degree over five years. Students who have completed 65 credit hours by the first semester of their junior year may apply for admission to the M.A. in Diplomacy and International Relations program. Applicants must have a 3.2 minimum GPA. If accepted, the program begins during the second semester of the student’s junior year. The B.S./M.A. accelerated program requires attendance during summer sessions. To view a model B.S./M.A. program, click here.

How many students are in the program?
Currently, there are approximately 303 students enrolled in the undergraduate program. Incoming classes average 100 students per year.

Where are SHU/diplomacy students from (e.g. states, regions, countries)?
Seton Hall University is ranked among the most diverse universities in the country. The Whitehead School is consistent with this trend and boasts a student body representing 37 countries and every region of the United States. While most undergraduates are from the United States, many have strong international ties and backgrounds, and master at least one foreign language.

How accessible are the faculty?
The Whitehead School averages a student to faculty ratio of 15 to 1. Faculty members are available to assist students with course work and to provide them with valuable support in finding the most appropriate graduate programs, locating internships, or choosing a career. Our professors have degrees from the finest universities and have served as ambassadors or have distinguished careers in international organizations such as the United Nations and the World Bank.

What library and computer resources are available to students?
The Seton Hall University Library offers access to many print and multimedia materials as well as numerous academic publications via electronic databases. In addition, the Whitehead School is building its own library of resources specific to our program. Every incoming student receives a laptop computer upon arrival, which greatly facilitates access to resources.

What do graduates of the program do after finishing at Seton Hall?
Many of our graduates pursue advanced degrees in the areas of international relations, business, and law at the finest institutions in the United States and abroad. Recent graduates have been admitted to Johns Hopkins University, American University, the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the University of London, and Cambridge University. The majority of graduates secure jobs in various branches of the United States government, non-profit organizations, the private sector, and international organizations. Many are beginning work for the U.S. Congress, the Department of State, and United Nations agencies. For more information about career options for graduates of the Whitehead School, and to view alumni profiles, visit our Internships and Career Development section.

How close is the campus to New York City?
Our campus is conveniently located in the village of South Orange, which is about a 10-minute walk to the train station. Trains leave for New York City frequently. The ride to Manhattan takes less than 30 minutes.

How safe is the campus and the neighboring community?
The village of South Orange is a quiet suburban community in Northern New Jersey. South Orange has a very low crime rate. While the campus and community are safe environments, we encourage all of our students to always keep their eyes open and travel together especially when going into New York City. To learn about safety on the Seton Hall University campus, click here.