Students who study international affairs develop understanding about contemporary global issues as well as in-depth knowledge of a chosen region or policy issue. Programs may focus on the diplomacy, culture and economics of a particular country or in a general sense.

A bachelor's degree is given to students who fulfill the necessary requirements given by the college or university they are attending. The requirements include three to seven years of focus on a subject, typically referred to as a major or concentration.

Part time learning allows one to obtain part-time degrees even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at his or own pace, gradually accumulating credits which count towards final qualification.