International Studies Mission Statement
The International Studies Program cultivates global citizens through immersive and interdisciplinary majors and minors. We strive to foster a deep understanding of the complexities of living in an interconnected world. Our program empowers students to become effective leaders, advocates, and problem solvers, capable of working in diverse environments to help solve complex global problems in the arenas of business, politics and society.
Through rigorous academic coursework, cross-cultural experiences, and engagement with international communities, our programs equip students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world.
International Studies Learning Outcomes
• Analyze selected elements of American and international cultures using concepts and methods from the humanities and social sciences.
• Articulate several ways in which Americans are connected to other citizens around the globe.
• Demonstrate advanced intermediate level skills in speaking and writing in French or Spanish, or native fluency in another language.
• Show understanding of and the ability to apply basic economic indicators to International economic phenomena, including monetary and fiscal policies and trade surpluses and deficits.
• Explain the development of the international system and apply International Relations theories to the issues and problems of contemporary international affairs.
• Explain how cultural diversity enriches our lives and provides alternative approaches for solving social problems and formulating social policies.
• Function effectively in a new environment beyond the academic program (study abroad experience).
• Demonstrate the ability to interact constructively with people of different cultures (study abroad experience).
• Better understand the society in which they are studying, including:
a. Language skills as relevant to the program location.
b. Basic knowledge of political, historical, cultural and social issues at their study abroad site (study abroad experience).
This program consists of a designated core of courses taken by all majors and three concentrations of designated and elective courses. International studies majors select one concentration in either International Politics, Peace and Justice Studies, or Cultural Studies. The purpose of the program is to prepare students for careers and graduate study in an increasingly globally-integrated world. Students should consult with the faculty adviser, listed below, for the concentration and emphasis that they select. All students in the major participate in an approved study abroad or off-campus study program for at least 10 weeks. Program coordinator, Dr. Michael Aleprete.
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