International Studies BA

The International Studies program seeks to prepare students for the complex, challenging, dynamic and interdependent world of the 21st century. As we enter this "global village," the acquisition of new skills, additional knowledge and wisdom will be necessary for effective citizenship and career aspirations.  The International Studies program is designed to meet this challenge.

The program focuses on political, economic, and cultural interdependencies and their effects on people in the emerging global system. Interdisciplinary issues of war and peace, economic and political development, and cross-cultural communication are examined, as are global concerns of population, environment, and human rights. International Studies students become knowledgeable about another world culture; proficient in another language; and participate in an exciting and rewarding international credit-bearing experiential program. An extensive array of study abroad options are available, as well as internship, co-op, and service-learning placements. Students may consult their advisor or the Office of International Programs in the Roukema Center for International Education to find out more about study abroad opportunities.

Majors are required to complete an experiential learning requirement (ideally a semester-long study abroad, international cooperative education, internship or service-learning experience). Students can enrich and broaden their academic program through participation in the Model United Nations Club, the International Student Organization, and other college organizations and clubs.

A degree in International Studies provides an excellent basis for a wide range of careers in business, government, and education, as well as for admission to graduate and professional schools which are increasingly seeking "globally literate" individuals. Graduates of this program having acquired a combination of foreign language skills and a strong background in international affairs; will be increasingly well-equipped for a wide variety of positions as the "globalization" of business, government, and education accelerates in the future.

The International Studies faculty is a diverse, expert, and active group of professors from a variety of fields and with extensive international experience.

An program is also offered.

Goal 1: To graduate students knowledgeable about the world.

Outcome 1: Students will demonstrate knowledge of current international issues.

Outcome 2: Students will demonstrate global geographic literacy.

Outcome 3: Students will demonstrate familiarity with scholarly approaches from more than one discipline in international studies as they apply to the study of the world’s cultures, politics, and globalization.

Outcome 4: Students will demonstrate expertise in one or more regions of the world.

Goal 2: To graduate students with skills and experiences that help them excel in the world.

Outcome 5: Students will have first-hand experiences of other cultures and international workplaces through participation in study abroad programs, international cooperative education, and internship programs.

Outcome 6: Students will demonstrate ability to write in a persuasive and scholarly manner.