INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

The International Studies major allows a student to design a program that combines language study, area studies courses, a living experience in the target culture, and a core discipline into an integrated program of study. A committee of three faculty members works with the student to select courses, plan the international experience, and supervise the senior comprehensive examination project or thesis. One of the members of this committee is the International Studies discipline coordinator.

Students in this program must acquire a language competence at the advanced level. Normally an intermediate level of language competence is required prior to the international experience. One semester supervised residence abroad in a selected geographical area related to the major is a special feature of this program. This experience may be a language and cultural study program, a practical internship, or a job-related opportunity.

The major consists of a minimum of twelve courses in addition to language study. Students must take Introduction to Anthropology or its equivalent, a minimum of five courses related to the cultural area, and five courses from a core discipline. In addition, students will complete a senior comprehensive examination or a thesis in consultation with the faculty committee.

Students who complete the international studies major should be able to demonstrate a command of at least one foreign language; a knowledge of the social, political, and cultural structures of one particular country or area of the world; an understanding of the disciplinary perspective of one academic field; and an ability to write, think, and speak effectively in expressing the interrelatedness of peoples and cultures. Typically, students in this program have proceeded to graduate study in international studies and have pursued careers in journalism, law, language teaching, international business, government, or employment in non-governmental and international service organizations.

For an additional resource pertaining to how you might fulfill the requirements for a degree in International Studies, you can review the International Studies Major Requirements / Graduation Checklist.