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.

The institutions of higher education included regular four-year colleges and universities. Education is taken very seriously in South Korea, and the country is home to several world class universities, many of which have exchange agreements with various foreign universities, and are a good way for foreigners to experience life in the country.

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.