Program Overview
You’ll study international policies and how these policies impact communities around the world. You’ll begin with core classes to build your understanding of major world systems and institutions. You can then choose classes within a regional focus, as well as one of five specific tracks related to international studies. This means that you can customize your academic experience entirely to your interests.
Concentrations
Choose one of five concentrations to develop in-depth knowledge of a specific topic:
Culture, Societies, and Values
The Culture, Societies and Values track aims to produce a greater awareness of and appreciation for the diversity of peoples, cultures, religions, and beliefs that make up our world. It will expand your “cultural literacy” about the problems and possibilities we face together as human beings, and enhance your ability to think critically about human behavior, both the sources of people’s power, resilience, and ability to bring about change and the cultural and structural forces that constrain their behavior.
Global Politics and Societies
The track seeks to provide you with a deep understanding of the manifold forces at work in today’s world. You will analyze international relations, the foreign policy behavior of states, and the role of international law and organizations. You will also explore the influence of divergent political cultures on contemporary international relations, both globally and regionally.
International Economics
If you choose this track you will study these issues, look at the empirical data, and learn about answers economists have to these questions. This track provides a solid foundation in the economic side of international studies.
Peace and Conflict Studies
In this track you will be taught to think critically, to examine and incorporate conflicting perspectives, and to debate broader principles underlying attitudes towards peace and conflict. In short, you will learn the tools necessary to become engaged global citizens who can contribute directly or indirectly to peace and justice in the world.
Sustainable Development and Environmental Justice
The Sustainable Development and Environmental Justice track is designed to equip you to develop a critical appreciation of global development and environmental impacts, in order to join the economics and science underpinning these issues with the longer-term social and political implications of decisions made by local and global actors.
Honors
Students may graduate with Honors in the International Studies.
International Studies (4+1), BA/MA
Interested in getting a masters degree? The dual degree (4+1) BA/MA program will save you both time and tuition by allowing you to earn a bachelor's and master's degree in only five years. You can start taking courses toward your master's in your junior or senior year and earn a master’s degree.