Both the B.A. and the B.S. in International Studies (INTL) provide an intellectual foundation that enables students to communicate, collaborate, and work across national, cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic boundaries. By incorporating extensive foreign language study and mandating an overseas experience, these degrees foster competencies that students need in order to function successfully in a global environment.

The majors are broadly constructed to allow flexibility as well as depth and breadth of regional and thematic knowledge. Students explore the majors by taking three introductory courses which introduce them to the six International Studies thematic concentrations: Global Health and Environment; Global Development; Human Rights and International Law; Culture and Politics; Peace and Conflict; and Diplomacy, Security, Governance. In addition to the thematic concentration, majors also select a regional focus, which can be defined geographically, linguistically, religiously, or ethnically. The B.A. option is the less quantitatively oriented of the two degrees. Students who wish to pursue the B.S. degree complete additional coursework that emphasizes quantitative analysis and skills. International Studies majors also complete an outside minor that will complement their thematic or regional concentration.

International Studies majors are prepared for occupations in both the public and private sectors: governmental agencies and NGOs, philanthropic organizations and multi-national corporations, public relations, and cultural events management. Above all, students are encouraged to be thoughtful, reflective citizens of their various communities and ethical participants in the global life that awaits them.

For detailed information about degree requirements, view the most recent College of Arts and Sciences Academic Bulletin.