COURSE CURRICULUM

The International Affairs major is an interdisciplinary program designed to help students understand and analyze complex global issues by combining methods and insights from political science, history, economics, anthropology, geography, and related fields. Students build a strong foundation in global studies through core courses such as Foundations of International and Global Studies, research methods focused on global issues, and an advanced seminar that emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills applied to real-world international challenges. The curriculum also includes an introductory course drawn from disciplines like anthropology, geography, history, education, or political science, ensuring that students gain multiple perspectives on global systems and societies. A key feature of the major is its emphasis on analytical tools and global competencies, which may include world language study or quantitative and economic analysis, strengthening students’ ability to interpret international data and communicate across cultures. Students then specialize by selecting electives within a thematic or regional track, such as global development and environment, international security, global ethnic and diversity studies, or global health and education. These tracks allow focused study on topics like climate change, political conflict, human rights, migration, inequality, public health, and global governance. The program culminates in a capstone experience that may involve study abroad, an internship with an international dimension, or an advanced upper-level seminar, providing hands-on application of classroom learning. Overall, the major requires at least 40 credits with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and grades of C- or better in all core and elective courses. Graduates develop strong research, communication, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, government, NGOs, global business, intelligence analysis, law, and graduate study in international relations and related fields.