B.S. in International Studies

Program Purpose The International Studies (IS) Program is designed to prepare students to live and work in the increasingly global world of the 21st century. The degree grounds students in different disciplines (such as communication, economics, foreign language history, political science) and permits them to explore the international scope of these disciplines. The primary aim of the IS degree is to provide students with a solid understanding of global and international issues, and to guide them toward incorporating their awareness, knowledge and skills into their career goals. Learning Outcomes Foundational Knowledge Demonstrate broad interdisciplinary knowledge of international, transnational and global issues, and how they interact with domestic (U.S.) themes, including diversity Assessment: Successful completion of BUS 2900, HIST 1510, POLS 2100 Advanced Knowledge Demonstrate in-depth understanding of a global thematic or geographical and be able to examine and discuss international problems and events analytically and critically Language Proficiency Communicate effectively in a second language or languages at the ACTFL Intermediate Level of proficiency, including but not limited to being able to handle successfully a variety of uncomplicated communicative tasks in straightforward social situations, limited to those predictable and concrete exchanges necessary for survival; comprehend simple, sentence-length speech in a variety of basic personal and social contexts; read “short, non-complex texts that convey basic information and deal with basic personal and social topics. Assessment: Successful completion of 6 credits of upper division language; where appropriate and possible, successful completion of an intensive language study abroad experience Global Citizenship and Lifelong Learning Develop a strong desire to pursue a life of continued learning, to participate effectively in international affairs, to serve international communities and organizations, and to continue the study of one or more languages and cultures. Assessment (one or more of the following): Successful completion of one or more international experiences; successful completion of a second major or minor in language or area studies; completion of a senior exit survey to collect data on students’ interactions with the global community during their undergraduate degree course of study; demonstrated intent to pursue a graduate program with an international focus and/or a career that utilizes foreign language skills and knowledge of international themes and topics.