The field of international relations and journalism offers a unique combination of
skills, allowing individuals to understand and analyze global events while effectively
communicating them to a wide audience. Pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in
International Relations and Journalism at GOU can provide you with the necessary
knowledge and expertise to excel in these interconnected fields. Let us explore the
key aspects of pursuing this program at GOU, including program overview, choosing
the right program, determining if it is the best fit for you, skill development, career
prospects, and future trends.

The BSc in International Relations and Journalism program at GOU is designed to
provide students with a deep understanding of global affairs and the skills required to
effectively report and analyze news stories. The program combines coursework from
both disciplines, covering subjects such as international politics, diplomacy, media
ethics, journalism practices, news writing, investigative reporting, and multimedia
storytelling. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the political,
economic, and social dynamics shaping our world and the tools and techniques for
gathering and disseminating news in various media formats. By the end of the
program, students will be well-prepared for careers in journalism, international
organizations, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and related fields.

Before pursuing a BSc in International Relations and Journalism, it is important to
consider if it aligns with your interests and goals. Ask yourself:
 Are you passionate about global affairs and international politics?
 Are you strongly interested in journalism, news reporting, and storytelling?
 Are you curious about different cultures and societies around the world?
 Do you have excellent research and analytical skills?
 Are you a strong communicator, both in writing and speaking?

 Are you comfortable working in fast-paced and deadline-driven
environments?
If you answered "yes" to these questions and have a genuine interest in understanding
and communicating global events, the BSc in International Relations and Journalism
program could be an excellent fit for you. It is important to have a passion for staying
informed about international issues, conducting in-depth research, critically analyzing
information, and effectively communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences.

Choosing the right program is crucial to ensure that GOU's BSc in International
Relations and Journalism program aligns with your interests, strengths, and career
goals. Research the program and its curriculum to gain a better understanding of the
courses offered, the emphasis on practical training, access to journalism labs and
media equipment, faculty expertise in international relations and journalism, and
opportunities for internships or study abroad programs. Explore the resources
available at GOU, such as student media outlets, journalism clubs, or research centers
focused on international relations.

A BSc in International Relations and Journalism equips students with the diverse
skills required in both fields. Students develop expertise in the following areas:
 International Relations:
o Understanding of global politics, international institutions, and
diplomatic relations.
o Analytical skills to critically evaluate complex international issues.
o Knowledge of economic systems, regional dynamics, and cultural
diversity.
o Ability to conduct research, gather data, and analyze information from
various sources.
o Strong written and oral communication skills for conveying ideas
effectively.
 Journalism:
o News gathering and reporting techniques, including interviewing and
fact-checking.
o News writing and storytelling across different media platforms.
o Ethical considerations and legal frameworks in journalism.
o Multimedia skills for producing engaging content, including
photography and video editing.
o Ability to work under tight deadlines and in high-pressure
environments.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to gain practical
experience through internships, fieldwork, and involvement in campus media outlets.
This practical training helps students develop a strong portfolio of work and build
professional networks within the industry.

The career prospects for graduates of a BSc in International Relations and Journalism
are diverse, with opportunities in journalism, media organizations, international
NGOs, government agencies, and global corporations. Some potential career paths
include:
1. Journalist/Reporter:
o Description: Journalists and reporters investigate, write, and report
news stories across various media platforms, such as print, broadcast,
or online. They cover local and international events, conduct
interviews, and present information in an unbiased and engaging
manner.
o Skill Requirements:
 Strong research and investigative skills
 Excellent writing and storytelling abilities
 Ability to work under tight deadlines
 Adaptability to different media platforms

2. Foreign Correspondent:
o Description: Foreign correspondents report on international events and
developments from different regions of the world. They provide
firsthand reporting, analysis, and insights into global affairs, often
working for media organizations with an international focus.
o Skill Requirements:
 In-depth knowledge of international politics and current events
 Cross-cultural understanding and sensitivity
 Strong reporting and storytelling skills
 Willingness to travel and work in challenging environments

3. Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer:
o Description: Diplomats and foreign service officers represent their
country's interests abroad and work to maintain diplomatic relations
with other nations. They engage in negotiations, promote international
cooperation, and analyze political developments.
o Skill Requirements:
 Strong understanding of international relations and diplomacy
 Excellent communication and negotiation skills
 Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
 Cross-cultural competence

4. Policy Analyst:

o Description: Policy analysts work in research institutions, think tanks,
or government agencies, analyzing and evaluating policies related to
international relations. They provide recommendations and insights to
inform decision-making processes.
o Skill Requirements:
 Proficiency in research and data analysis
 Strong knowledge of global politics and policy frameworks
 Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
 Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively

5. Communications Specialist:
o Description: Communications specialists work in various
organizations, including NGOs, government agencies, and
international corporations, managing their communication strategies.
They develop messaging, handle media relations, and create content
for different platforms.
o Skill Requirements:
 Strong writing and editing skills
 Ability to craft effective communication strategies
 Proficiency in digital and social media platforms
 Understanding of public relations and branding

International relations and journalism are constantly evolving, influenced by
technological advancements and global developments. Some future trends and
opportunities in the field include:
 Digital Journalism: The rise of digital platforms and online media has
transformed journalism. Professionals with skills in digital journalism, data
visualization, and multimedia storytelling will be in high demand.
 Global Reporting: With the world's increasing interconnectedness, the need for
accurate and comprehensive global reporting is growing. Opportunities for
foreign correspondents and journalists with expertise in specific regions or
issues will continue to expand.
 Data Journalism: The ability to gather, analyze, and present data is becoming
essential in journalism. Data journalism skills, including data visualization and
data-driven storytelling, will be valuable in providing context and insights into
complex global issues.
 Crisis Reporting: As conflicts and crises persist around the world, there will be
a demand for journalists who can report from these challenging environments
while adhering to ethical and safety guidelines.
 Advocacy and Non-Profit Work: Graduates with a BSc in International
Relations and Journalism can find meaningful careers in advocacy
organizations and non-profits, using their skills to raise awareness and
promote positive change on global issues.

On completion of this Program at GOU, graduates will have the requisite skills,
expertise, experience, and know-how to, in addition to being well-prepared to excel in
a variety of the existing career-advancing roles in the field will also be able to
advance their careers in any combination of the following emerging 4IR-compliant
specialist job roles in the field:
1. Cybersecurity Analyst:
Description: Cybersecurity Analysts specialize in identifying and mitigating
cyber threats to national security, organizations, or individuals.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in cybersecurity tools and techniques
o Knowledge of international cybersecurity policies and regulations
o Understanding of emerging cyber threats and trends
o Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
o Ability to assess vulnerabilities and develop risk mitigation strategies
2. Data Analyst:
Description: Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret large sets of data to
inform decision-making in international relations.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in data analysis tools and statistical software
o Knowledge of data visualization techniques
o Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills
o Ability to interpret complex data and draw insights
o Understanding of international relations theories and concepts
3. Social Media Strategist:
Description: Social Media Strategists develop and implement social media
campaigns to engage audiences, shape public opinion, and promote diplomatic
initiatives.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in social media platforms and analytics tools
o Strong understanding of social media trends and audience behavior
o Ability to develop and execute social media strategies
o Knowledge of digital diplomacy and online public engagement
o Familiarity with international communication protocols and cultural
sensitivities

4. Conflict Resolution Specialist:
Description: Conflict Resolution Specialists facilitate negotiation and
mediation processes to resolve conflicts between individuals, organizations, or
nations.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of conflict resolution theories and methodologies
o Strong communication and interpersonal skills
o Ability to analyze complex conflicts and identify potential solutions
o Proficiency in negotiation and mediation techniques
o Understanding of cultural and political dynamics in conflict situations
5. Diplomatic Technologist:

Description: Diplomatic Technologists leverage technology to enhance
diplomatic communication, information sharing, and diplomatic negotiations.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of emerging technologies relevant to diplomacy
o Proficiency in digital communication platforms and tools
o Strong understanding of diplomatic protocols and practices
o Ability to identify and apply technology-driven solutions to diplomatic
challenges
o Familiarity with data privacy and security in diplomatic contexts
6. Humanitarian Technology Specialist:
Description: Humanitarian Technology Specialists deploy technological
solutions to address humanitarian challenges, such as disaster response,
refugee crises, and poverty alleviation.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of humanitarian issues and international aid frameworks
o Proficiency in relevant technologies
o Strong project management and problem-solving skills
o Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders (NGOs, governments,
local communities)
o Understanding of ethical considerations and cultural sensitivities in
humanitarian contexts
7. Environmental Diplomat:
Description: Environmental Diplomats promote international cooperation and
negotiations on environmental issues, advocating for sustainable and climate-
friendly policies.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of international environmental agreements and frameworks
o Proficiency in environmental policy analysis and advocacy
o Strong communication and diplomatic skills
o Ability to navigate complex political landscapes and negotiations
o Understanding of climate change science and adaptation/mitigation
strategies
8. Intelligence Analyst:
Description: Intelligence Analysts gather, analyze, and interpret intelligence
information to inform foreign policy and national security decisions.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in intelligence analysis techniques and tools
o Knowledge of geopolitical trends and security threats
o Strong critical thinking and analytical skills
o Ability to synthesize complex information and provide actionable
insights
o Understanding of intelligence collection methods and legal
frameworks

9. Cultural Intelligence Consultant:
Description: Cultural Intelligence Consultants provide expertise on cross-
cultural communication, helping individuals and organizations navigate
cultural differences and enhance intercultural understanding.
Skills Requirements:
 Knowledge of cultural dimensions and intercultural theories

 Proficiency in cross-cultural communication and cultural sensitivity
 Strong interpersonal and communication skills
 Ability to develop cultural intelligence training programs
 Understanding of cultural dynamics in international relations
10. Data Journalist:
Description: Data Journalists collect, analyze, and visualize data to uncover
and report on significant trends and stories.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools
o Knowledge of statistical methods and research techniques
o Strong investigative and reporting skills
o Ability to find and interpret data sources
o Understanding of journalistic ethics and standards
11. Multimedia Journalist:
Description: Multimedia Journalists produce content across various formats,
including text, video, audio, and interactive elements.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in multimedia production tools and software
o Knowledge of storytelling techniques for different media
o Strong reporting and interviewing skills
o Ability to adapt content for multiple platforms
o Understanding of audience engagement strategies
12. Digital Content Strategist:
Description: Digital Content Strategists create and implement strategies to
optimize online content distribution, engagement, and monetization.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in content management systems and digital marketing tools
o Knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO) principles
o Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills
o Ability to develop and execute content marketing campaigns
o Understanding of audience segmentation and user experience
13. Audience Engagement Editor:
Description: Audience Engagement Editors develop and implement strategies
to attract and retain audiences across digital platforms.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of social media platforms and audience behavior
o Proficiency in audience analytics and engagement tools
o Strong communication and relationship-building skills
o Ability to develop and execute audience engagement strategies
o Understanding of content distribution and promotion tactics
14. Virtual Reality (VR) Journalist:
Description: VR Journalists use virtual reality technology to create immersive
and interactive journalistic experiences.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in VR production tools and software
o Knowledge of immersive storytelling techniques
o Strong reporting and narrative skills
o Ability to adapt journalistic content for VR platforms
o Understanding of ethical considerations in VR journalism

15. Audience Research Analyst:
Description: Audience Research Analysts gather and analyze data to
understand audience preferences, behavior, and consumption patterns.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in audience research tools and analytics platforms
o Knowledge of survey design and data analysis methods
o Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills
o Ability to interpret and present data insights
o Understanding of media consumption trends and audience
segmentation

16. Audio Journalist/Podcast Producer:
Description: Audio Journalists and Podcast Producers create audio content,
including news stories, interviews, and narrative-driven podcasts.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in audio recording and editing software
o Knowledge of storytelling techniques for audio formats
o Strong reporting and interviewing skills
o Ability to develop engaging audio narratives
o Understanding of podcast distribution and monetization
17. Investigative Journalist:
Description: Investigative Journalists conduct in-depth research and reporting
to uncover and expose hidden information and wrongdoing.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of investigative journalism techniques and methodologies
o Proficiency in data analysis and public records research
o Strong interviewing and source verification skills
o Ability to write compelling investigative reports
o Understanding of legal and ethical considerations in investigative
journalism
18. Social Media Journalist:
Description: Social Media Journalists use social media platforms to report
news, engage with audiences, and amplify journalistic content.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in social media platforms and tools
o Knowledge of social media trends and best practices
o Strong writing and storytelling skills
o Ability to engage with audiences and respond to feedback
o Understanding of journalistic ethics and standards in social media
reporting

As an Entrepreneurial University, all GOU programs also emphasize developing and
acquiring entrepreneurial skills and expertise. Like all GOU graduates, the graduates
of this program, in addition to acquiring requisite knowledge and competency in the
core subject areas of their field and discipline, also gain entrepreneurial skills,
expertise, and experience to enable them (if they choose) to set up their 4 th Industrial

Revolution (4IR) compliant business enterprises and corporations as media-business
entrepreneurs.
Media-business entrepreneurs combine their creativity, communication skills, and
business acumen to create and manage ventures in the media industry. They deeply
understand media platforms, content creation, audience engagement, and market
trends. Media-business entrepreneurs identify opportunities within the media
landscape, develop innovative content strategies, and leverage various mediums such
as television, film, digital platforms, or publishing to reach and captivate audiences.
To succeed in media-business entrepreneurship in the 4IR, graduates in this program
are trained to possess a combination of entrepreneurial mindset qualities and core
media-business discipline entrepreneurial subject area skills and expertise.
Entrepreneurial Mindset Qualities: Graduates on completion of this program are
equipped with the following entrepreneurial mindset qualities: visionary thinking to
anticipate future trends and disrupt industries, risk appetite to embrace uncertainty and
take calculated risks, resilience to bounce back from failures and persevere in the face
of business challenges, passion and drive to fuel their pursuit of making a positive
impact in their media-business ventures, resourcefulness to find creative solutions
using available resources, adaptability to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of
the 4IR economy, and a customer-centric approach to understand and address
customer needs in their media-business These entrepreneurial mindset qualities enable
our graduates seeking to embark on an entrepreneurial career in their field to have the
ability to thrive as media-business entrepreneurs, driving innovation and success in
the ever-evolving industry
Core Media Discipline Entrepreneurial Subject Area Skills and Expertise: In
addition to acquiring the requisite entrepreneurial mindset qualities, the program also
meets the following specific engineering discipline core subject areas skills and
expertise requirements for success in media-business entrepreneurship in the 4IR.
Graduates, upon completion of this program, are equipped with skills, expertise, and
know-how in the following:
1. Content Creation and Curation: Skills in content creation and curation,
including writing, editing, storytelling, visual design, video production, and
multimedia production. The ability to create high-quality and engaging content
across various media formats.
2. Digital Marketing Skills: Proficiency in digital marketing with expertise in
search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, email marketing,
online advertising, and analytics. Acquires skills to develop effective digital
marketing strategies to promote media offerings and reach the target audience.
3. Data Analytics Expertise: Developing expertise and skills to analyze audience
data, track engagement metrics, and derive insights to optimize content,
marketing strategies, and monetization models and acquiring data-driven

decision-making skills to enhance the effectiveness and profitability of media
ventures.
4. Financial Management and Analysis: Skills in financial management and
analysis. Expertise in understanding financial statements, budgeting, cash flow
management, and forecasting to make informed financial decisions, secure
funding, and ensure the financial sustainability of media-business ventures.
5. Sales and Business Development: Proficiency in sales and business
development; ability to identify potential customers, build relationships, and
close deals; understanding the intricacies of the sales process, negotiation
techniques, and customer relationship management to drive revenue growth.
6. Branding and Marketing Strategy: Solid understanding of branding and
marketing strategy to develop a strong brand identity, positioning, and
messaging that resonates with the target audience. Acquiring the needed skills
in market research, competitor analysis, and consumer behavior to develop
effective marketing strategies.
7. Monetization Models: Knowledgeable about various monetization models in
the media industry and expertise in advertising, subscriptions, sponsorships,
partnerships, and other revenue generation strategies and able to identify the
most suitable monetization models for a given content and target audience.
8. Intellectual Property and Copyright: Acquiring a good understanding of
intellectual property and copyright laws in the media industry to protect the
business's intellectual property and having knowledge in licensing, fair use,
and copyright infringement.
9. Project and Team Management: Developing effective project and team
management skills to manage multiple projects, coordinate teams, set
deadlines, and ensure smooth workflow and leadership skills to inspire and
motivate their team members.
10. Storytelling and Communication: Developing storytelling and communication
skills to effectively convey business vision, ideas, and messages across
different media platforms. Strong communication skills to engage with the
audience, build relationships, and negotiate business deals.
11. Media Ethics and Legal Compliance: Developing awareness of media ethics
and legal regulations and understanding the importance of responsible
journalism, privacy laws, defamation, libel, and other legal considerations, as
well as compliance with ethical standards and legal requirements to maintain
credibility and avoid legal issues.
12. Industry Trends and Market Awareness: Acquire skills in understanding
industry trends, market dynamics, emerging technologies, consumer behavior,
and technological advancements to identify new opportunities, anticipate
market shifts, and stay competitive in the media business space.
By acquiring these skills and expertise and being equipped with the requisite
entrepreneurial mindset qualities, GOU graduates in this field are well-prepared to
succeed as media-business entrepreneurs. They can effectively navigate the dynamic

media landscape by leveraging their content creation and curation proficiency, digital
marketing, data analytics, branding and marketing strategy, and monetization models.
Their project and team management skills enable them to coordinate multiple media
projects, set deadlines, and inspire their teams.
With strong storytelling and communication abilities, they can convey their business
vision and engage with their audience across various media platforms. They also
prioritize media ethics and legal compliance to maintain credibility and avoid legal
issues. Moreover, their market awareness and continuous learning ensure they stay
informed about industry trends, market dynamics, and emerging technologies,
allowing them to identify new opportunities and remain competitive in the media-
business space. Overall, GOU graduates in this field possess the necessary skills and
mindset to thrive as media-business entrepreneurs and make a significant impact in
the media-business industry landscape in the 4IR economy.

Pursuing a BSc in International Relations and Journalism offers a unique opportunity
to combine a deep understanding of global affairs with the skills required to
effectively communicate and report on them. The program at GOU provides a
comprehensive education in international relations and journalism, equipping
graduates with a versatile skill set for various career paths. By developing expertise in
research, analysis, storytelling, and global awareness, you can embark on a fulfilling
career in journalism, international organizations, diplomacy, policy analysis, or
communications.

Enroll Now at GOU to Build a Strong Foundation and Potential for a
Secure and Promising Career in International Relations and

Journalism.