COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in International Studies program at Texas State University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of global issues, international relations, and cross-cultural communication while ensuring they meet both academic and professional standards for graduation. The program can be completed at the San Marcos or Mexico Querétaro campuses and combines general education core curriculum requirements with specialized coursework in international studies. In addition to the core curriculum, students must complete extra coursework including three hours of English literature and three hours in mathematics, science, logic, or computer science, ensuring a well-rounded academic foundation. A significant feature of this degree is the requirement for a global academic experience, which may include studying abroad or participating in internationally focused research, service, or internship opportunities such as IS 4387, helping students gain real-world global exposure. Academically, students are required to complete at least 36 advanced credit hours at the junior and senior levels, along with nine hours of writing intensive courses to strengthen analytical and communication skills. The curriculum is structured across four years, beginning with foundational subjects like communication, government, history, geography, and modern languages, and progressing into more specialized topics such as international relations, global security, policy analysis, and regional studies. Students must complete five consecutive semesters of the same foreign language, emphasizing the importance of linguistic proficiency in global careers. The program also offers a wide range of electives, including international security, global security, and crime-related courses, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 overall and 3.00 within the major, reflecting the program’s academic rigor. Overall, this degree prepares graduates for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, policy analysis, global business, and related fields by equipping them with critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and practical international experience.