Are you interested in:

• Solving global problems
• Exploring diverse cultures in a multinational setting
• Making and debating arguments
• Challenging assumptions
• Reading critically
• Writing persuasively

The international studies major is ideal for students who wish to take an interdisciplinary approach to the world that lies beyond the United States. Building on a core of at least 18 hours in history and political science, each student consults with her advisor to choose an additional 17-18 hours from courses in a variety of disciplines to craft her own unique program offering insight into contemporary global affairs. Each student should strive for fluency in one target language.

Types of jobs:

• Teaching
• Law
• Local, state, or federal government
• Libraries and archives
• The foreign service
• Paralegal professions
• Journalism
• Business
• Think tanks/non-profits

Attend graduate school for:

• College and university teaching
• Government service
• History
• Law
• Library science
• Political science
• Public administration

Options for the major:

• B.A. in international studies
• Double major or minor in any additional related area of interest including criminology, business, mass communication, or foreign languages
• Teaching licensure for elementary, middle, or high school teaching
• Model U.N.
• Study abroad
• Undergraduate research
• Student teaching
• Internships – recent placements have included
  • U.S. Committee on Refugees and Immigrants
  • International Affairs Council Internship
  • U.S. Immigrations and Customs Bureau

Professional associations:

• Sigma Iota Rho, Honor Society for International Studies www.sigmaiotarho.org
• Pi Sigma Alpha, Honor Society for Political Science www.pisigmaalpha.org
• International Studies Association www.isanet.org
• Area Studies Associations www.apsanet.org/

Career outlook:

Historians
Lawyers
Political scientists
High school teachers
Middle school teachers
Foreign service officers
Foreign affairs specialist
Interpreters/translators
News analyst/correspondent
Tourism and travel

Additional information:

Meredith’s international studies major »