Department of International Relations

Department profile and academic direction.

Speech from the HOD

Prof. Ubale Muhammad

Head of Department

On behalf of the dedicated faculty and staff of the Department of International Relations, I extend a warm welcome to our academic community.

Our department is founded on the belief that understanding global dynamics, diplomatic practice, and international systems is essential for fostering peace, security, and sustainable development in an increasingly interconnected world. We are committed to providing an enriching and flexible learning experience that combines rigorous theoretical foundations with practical insights into contemporary global challenges, including conflict resolution, governance, and international cooperation.

With the NUC approval of our postgraduate programmes, we are poised to equip students with the advanced knowledge and skills required to excel in diplomacy, policy analysis, and international affairs .

I encourage our students to actively engage with our programmes, embrace opportunities for intellectual growth, and prepare to become ethical and visionary leaders who will shape the future of Nigeria’s engagement with the global community.

Overview

About this department

The Department of International Relations at Iconic Open University is a distinguished academic unit dedicated to producing competent professionals capable of analyzing and navigating the complex dynamics of global politics, diplomacy, and international affairs through flexible, technology-driven learning. As part of the Faculty of Management, Social, & Media Sciences, the Department offers the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in International Relations & Diplomacy at the undergraduate level, designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge of international systems, global governance, conflict resolution, diplomatic practice, and foreign policy analysis.

At the postgraduate level, the Department offers the Master of International Relations (MIR) in Policy and Diplomacy, as well as the Master of International Relations and Diplomacy, to meet the growing demand for expertise in governance, security, and global affairs. The Department is committed to producing skilled diplomats, policy analysts, international development specialists, and global affairs experts through innovative teaching, cutting-edge research, and practical engagement with real-world issues. In line with the university’s open distance and e-learning model, the Department ensures students receive rigorous, industry-relevant training while balancing their studies with professional and personal commitments.

With a vision to lead in international relations education, the Department prepares graduates to excel in various sectors, including foreign affairs ministries, international organizations, diplomatic missions, non-governmental organizations, think tanks, multinational corporations, and global media outlets, contributing to international peace, security, and cooperation across Nigeria and beyond.

Direction

Vision and mission

Academic priorities driving learning outcomes for this department.

Vision

To become a premier centre of excellence in international relations and diplomatic education, producing globally competitive, ethically grounded, and visionary graduates who contribute to international peace, security, and sustainable development.

Mission

To provide access to quality, innovative education in international relations and diplomacy that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application; to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and cross-cultural understanding through rigorous academic programmes and research; to engage with government agencies, international organizations, and civil society to promote professional development and policy-relevant scholarship; and to prepare graduates for impactful careers in diplomacy, international organizations, policy analysis, and global affairs, thereby advancing Nigeria’s role in the international community.

Programmes

Programmes under this department

Discover available programmes linked to this department.

B.Sc. International Relations & Diplomacy

Lecturers

Our lecturers

Faculty members supporting teaching, mentorship, and research in this department.

No lecturers published

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