Tailor your degree in international studies to your interests by focusing on global security or global development. You can also expand your global perspective with a double major in politics and government or economics, or a minor in one of the modern languages.
Full Time
Rolling AdmissionBachelor of Arts
30-44
Minor
18
You study the challenges and strategies involved in reducing poverty, promoting sustainability, improving education and health, and strengthening governance around the world. This track is ideal if you’re interested in careers with international organizations, nonprofits, government agencies, or global businesses working toward positive change and development worldwide.
Explore how nations and organizations address global threats to peace and security. In this track, you’ll study conflict, terrorism, diplomacy, cybersecurity, and intelligence—preparing for careers in government, defense, international relations, or global policy.
International Studies; Politics and Government, '23
Benie was granted a Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Fellowship following a nationwide competition of nearly 900 highly qualified candidates. Just 45 fellows were chosen across the country. The program will allow the multi-lingual Kwarteng to pursue her master’s degree, work overseas and stateside with a member of Congress, and become a U.S. diplomat.
The program supports Benie through a two-year master’s degree in International Relations at Johns Hopkins University and provides extensive professional development opportunities, including internships, mentors, and skills training.
While at UHart, Benie studied in Seoul, South Korea, at Yonsei University’s Underwood International College, where she took courses in diplomacy and international negotiations.
As someone interested in foreign affairs, getting the chance to go to a different country and indulge in the language and culture was a practical way for me to learn about foreign policy. This kind of experience is very rare and something that can set you apart from many applicants in the job market
You take the following required courses, plus the completion of the fourth semester of a foreign language course or its equivalent, and a capstone course.
Dive deeper into international studies by taking courses in one of two specialized tracks: Global Security or Global Development. At least 9 of these credits must be at the 300-level or higher. To ensure a well-rounded experience, no more than 9 credits can come from a single discipline.
Global Security Track Examples:
Global Development Track Examples:
In addition, one course in the track must be either Independent Study in International Studies, the International Studies Internship, or an international studies elective taken in one's chosen track while studying abroad.
For more information, and to see a complete list of degree requirements, visit the Course Catalog.
A minor in International Studies gives you a global perspective that enhances any major. You’ll explore international politics, security, development, and cultural dynamics—skills that are increasingly valuable in today’s interconnected world.
You take one required course:
For more information, and to see a complete list of minor requirements, visit the Course Catalog.
The Bachelor of Arts in International Studies students will:
Are you interested in political systems, passionate about advocating for important issues, or considering a career in government? At UHart, you won’t just study government and policy—you’ll learn how to shape and transform it.
If you are interested in how economic theory influences public policy, you may want to consider a minor in political economy. It is a great complement to any area of study.