COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in International Studies is a 120-credit-hour interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for careers and leadership roles in an increasingly interconnected world. The program focuses on developing global awareness, cultural understanding, analytical thinking, research skills, and effective communication while examining the political, economic, social, historical, and cultural forces that shape international affairs. Students learn to appreciate diversity and multicultural competence, communicate effectively in writing, and critically analyze global issues affecting societies worldwide. The curriculum combines a strong liberal arts foundation with specialized international studies coursework, foreign language training, and concentration-based learning. Students complete at least two years of foreign language study and are encouraged to pursue advanced language proficiency to strengthen their international communication skills. The major includes core coursework in global history, international politics, geography, economics, religion, gender studies, and cultural studies, providing a broad understanding of world regions and global challenges. Students can tailor their education through concentrations such as International Diplomacy and Peace Studies, African Studies, Asian Studies, European Studies, Latin American Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, Comparative Cultures, International Economic Affairs, Global Gender Studies, and Research/Intelligence Analysis. The program also emphasizes research methods, critical thinking, and independent inquiry, preparing students for graduate studies and professional careers. High-achieving students may pursue departmental honors through advanced research and an honors thesis under faculty supervision. An accelerated combined-degree pathway allows qualified students to begin graduate coursework toward a master’s degree in International and Comparative Politics while completing their bachelor’s degree, reducing the overall time required for both qualifications. Small class sizes, seminar-style instruction, collaborative learning, and close faculty interaction enhance the educational experience. Graduates develop strong analytical, intercultural, and research skills that are highly transferable across industries and professions. Career opportunities include government service, diplomacy, intelligence analysis, international organizations, humanitarian and nongovernmental organizations, policy research, global business, international development, education, and public service. The program ultimately prepares students to become informed global citizens capable of understanding complex international issues and contributing effectively in diverse professional and multicultural environments.