International Studies Major

The International Studies Major (B.A.)

The International Studies major is ideal for students who are interested in an educational program that is global in its perspective and interdisciplinary in its approach. A modern liberal arts education is incomplete without some understanding of the international and global nature of human society. International Studies majors can use the major as a means to explore the international and global dimensions of economics, politics, or culture, especially as they relate to a particular geographic area of study.

The changing demographics in California have brought the diversity of the globe to our local communities. The major is designed to give students the knowledge, skills, and confidence to work in multicultural settings, whether here or abroad. International studies students learn to develop and articulate their own ideas about the importance of having an international and global perspective in an increasingly multicultural workplace. Students gain an understanding of how cultures differ, as well as the advantages and challenges of cultural diversity. International Studies majors also acquire a richer perspective of their own culture in the process.

In addition to the understanding of international and global issues that they develop in their core courses, International Studies majors work with their advisor to devise a curricular plan that focuses their study on a specific region of the world. This focused study often inspires, facilitates, and is culminated by an experience studying abroad in their region of choice.

International Studies graduates have found the major to be an excellent preparation for careers including international business, international development, diplomacy, and teaching, as well as for graduate programs in law and business.

Student Learning Outcomes:

International Studies majors will demonstrate:

1.     An understanding of the international dimensions of economics, politics, or culture.

2.     An understanding of the economics, politics, or culture of a specific region of the world.

3.     An understanding of how cultures differ, as well as the advantages and challenges of cultural diversity.

4.     The knowledge, skills, and confidence to work in multicultural settings, whether here or abroad.

5.     A second-year proficiency in a second language.

Requirements for the International Studies Major BA

Core Requirements

BUS 1000                               Macroeconomics                                                                                                            3

HIST 3020                              20th Century: A Global Perspective                                                                            3

IS 4910                                   Senior Seminar                                                                                                               3

IS 4996                                   Internship                                                                                                                      1-3

POL 1010                               Introduction to the Study of Politics                                                                             3

POL 1500                               Introduction to International Relations                                                                       3

POL 1600                               Introduction to Comparative Politics                                                                           3

POL 3101                               Research Methods in Political Sceince                                                                     3

SCS 1002                               Cultural Anthropology                                                                                                   3

Total                                                                                                                                                                          25-27 units

Upper Division Electives

Upper-division elective coursework must be international or global in scope or represent a distinct region of the world (courses must be chosen in consultation with and be approved by the major advisor).                                                                                                                                                   18

Elementary proficiency in a second language (test or coursework)                                                                   0-8

Total                                                                                                                                                                           18-26 units

Total International Studies Major                                                                              43-53 units

International Studies Course Descriptions:

IS 4910 - Senior Seminar

The Senior Seminar provides a collaborative setting within which students work to complete their senior thesis. It involves development of the thesis in discussion with other students and with the seminar leader.

IS 4911 - Special Topics Course

A course designed to study an international topic not covered by regularly scheduled courses. Topic will depend on the instructor. May be taken more than once for credit. Not offered on a regular basis.

IS 4912 - Internship

Students can earn units for volunteer or paid work in some area related to international studies. The internship must be arranged in cooperation with a supervising faculty member and the Director of Career Services.

IS 4999 - Independent Study

Independent research on a topic of special interest to a student and a supervising faculty member. Offered by request, and subject to the approval of the Department Chair and the Dean.