International Studies Program

Pursue international studies and become a citizen of the world.

As a student in the International Studies Program, you’ll see the world from different perspectives. You’ll study global problems and learn how to be part of the solution. You’ll explain how the world is connected and changing.

Develop a global mindset and gain valuable skills

Learn about different cultures by studying the political, economic and social dynamics of other countries.
Develop intercultural communication skills.
Think critically about big-picture challenges.
Learn a new language.
Refine skills in writing, research, problem-solving and negotiation.

Be career ready

Employers put a premium on global learning that includes exposure to diverse experiences and perspectives. After graduation, you may consider a career in:

business, including marketing and economics.
psychology or sociology.
journalism.
politics.
law.

Award-winning students

Over the past five years, international studies students have received these nationally competitive awards.

Fulbright Scholarships

Goldwater Scholarship

Gilman Scholarships

Critical Language Scholarships

Rotary Scholarship

Boren Scholarship

One female and three male professors (Drs. Bea Maldonado, Blake Scott, Max Kovalov, and Malte Pehl, respectively) standing behind a table with a rack of mini flags of countries from around the world.

Customize your Program

Focus on the region that interests you the most — Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. Or, explore broader global issues in our global studies concentration. Each concentration includes a study abroad and foreign language requirement to help immerse you in the culture and deepen your understanding of the region's complexities.

Africa Concentration

If you want to better understand the world, current events and global relations, start by studying Africa. Not only will studying Africa’s past help you understand historical events, it will help you understand current societies and cultures in other parts of the world.
If you select this concentration, you’ll examine the rich history, diverse cultures and complex challenges of the African continent.
Your courses will explore everything from African art and literature to the intricate dynamics of gender in Africa and African political thought.
You’ll develop skills like how to adapt to unfamiliar environments and how to communicate across cultures and languages.
Explore the Africa Concentration
Asia Concentration

Asia is home to over half of the world’s population and has some of the world’s oldest and most sophisticated civilizations.
China has the world’s largest population and fastest-growing economy in recorded history. India is a growing economic power and the world’s largest democracy. Japan is a driving force in world technology and popular culture.
In this concentration, you’ll go beyond these three countries and study Arab and Islamic countries as well. With so many electives to choose from, you can customize your program of study to focus on one particular area or gain a vast understanding of the whole continent. You’ll study history, art, literature, culture, languages and religions.
When you study Asian societies, traditions and business practices, you’ll have the global fluency to set you up for success in any career.
Explore the Asia Concentration
Europe Concentration

Europe is home to the world’s smallest country (Vatican City), more than 400 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the Beatles. It’s also a place with contested borders and gender and immigration issues.
Through this multi-disciplinary concentration, you’ll understand the complexities of contemporary Europe. You’ll study the past, which will help you understand the present and work toward navigating the future.
You’ll individualize your program by selecting courses that cover topics in history, geography, politics, economics, art, literature and culture.
When you select Europe as your concentration, you’ll be prepared for a career in international business, law, journalism and more.
Explore the Europe Concentration
Latin America and the Caribbean Concentration

From Mexico City to Santiago, Havana to Rio, explore the complexity of Latin American and Caribbean societies, cultures, economies and foreign relations.
You can customize your program and discover the fascinating interplay of indigenous traditions, European influences and African legacies that have shaped the region's art, music, literature, politics and economies.
Through the program, you'll develop proficiency in Spanish, French or Portuguese, languages widely spoken throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. This foundation in language will open doors to deeper cultural immersion and enable you to connect with local communities on a personal level.
You'll also put your skills and knowledge into practice through study abroad or internship abroad programs. This experience will set you up for success in any career you choose.
Explore Latin America & Caribbean
Global Studies Concentration

If you're interested in a broad perspective on global issues, international relations and environmental challenges, the Global Studies concentration is for you.
Build an individualized program of study by choosing independent studies, bachelor's essay topics and courses with exciting special topics — courses ranging from Global Health to World Music Cultures and from International Economics to Global Gender Politics. Discover your passion for transnational issues, human rights and social justice with courses like Witchcraft and Witch-hunting in the Modern World and Politics of Protest and Revolution.
You'll learn from experienced faculty with diverse backgrounds, research interests and global expertise. You'll gain skills in critical thinking, problem solving and communication. You'll develop cultural competencies to better understand and respect individual values, attitudes and beliefs.
Explore Global Studies

diplomacy in action

Syd Jackson plans on having an international-focused career. To help her get there, she gained real world experience through an internship at the U.S. Department of State.

About her State Dept. Internship

National flags hanging off the balcony of the Robert Scott Small Building

Become a Global Leader

Add the Global Leadership Certificate to any course of study and be better prepared to lead in business, communication, politics and other areas. Gain valuable hands-on experiences through simulations, undergraduate research, internships or study abroad.

Tackle 21st Century Challenges