Certificate Overview
The International Relations Graduate Certificate examines how countries and institutions interact within complex global political and economic systems. In four courses, you’ll explore the structures that shape diplomacy, governance, and international collaboration across diverse regions.
Designed for professionals seeking to navigate international dynamics, this fully online certificate prepares you to engage with global frameworks and interpret how political and economic relationships influence world affairs.
96%
Of certificate earners would recommend the program
95%
Said the certificate prepared them for their next steps
Skills You'll Gain
Through the certificate, you’ll learn to:
- Assess drivers of conflict and cooperation in varied international contexts.
- Evaluate regional and international political institutions and their impact on governance and diplomacy.
- Interpret key issues in international political economy, foreign policy, human rights, and geopolitics.
Career Outcomes
Demand for professionals with expertise in global affairs, policy, and international systems continues to grow as organizations navigate complex geopolitical shifts.
International relations certificate earners report strong confidence in their preparation and meaningful career impact.
Courses
The International Relations Graduate Certificate includes four online courses:
- 1 international relations course
- 3 elective courses
Selecting courses. Multiple course options are available during fall, spring, and summer terms. Offerings vary by term. Explore current options in the DCE Course Search & Registration platform.
Upcoming Term: Fall 2026
Enroll in your first certificate course this fall — no application required.
Pre-registration opens July 6. Registration opens July 20 at 9 a.m. ET.
Stackable Certificates and Degrees
Stackable credentials allow you to earn multiple credentials by completing courses that meet overlapping requirements. Of certificate earners, 79% stacked certificate courses toward a degree.
If you pursue a master’s degree in one of the following two fields, you can earn this graduate certificate along the way by completing courses that fulfill both certificate and degree requirements:
This approach allows you to build specialized knowledge while making measurable progress toward your goals.
Learn how to plan a stackable credential pathway.
Tuition
Support and Resources
Access to career resources, including webinars, advising, and career fairs
Weekly virtual office hours with the student advising team
Affiliate membership in the Harvard Extension Alumni Association
Earning Your Certificate
If you take two courses per semester, you can complete your certificate in 8 months. If you prefer a more flexible pace, you have up to three years to finish.
There is no formal application required. You simply register for each course.
To meet the requirements for the certificate:
- Complete the four certificate courses for graduate credit.
- Earn at least a B grade in each course.
- Complete all courses within three years of starting your first eligible certificate course.
Learn more about pursuing a certificate and the process of requesting your certificate.
