Bachelors (BA) in International Studies
Overview
The International Studies program prepares students to think and act as citizens of the world. The program integrates insights from multiple disciplines – economics, politics, geography, and religion, among others – in order to provide a rigorous education in the complex dynamics of an increasingly interdependent world. Graduates will be equipped with the skills necessary to effectively engage the world and its multitude of cultures, with foreign language capabilities, cross-cultural awareness and experience, and critical thinking and analysis.
The international studies major offers a 48- to 50-semester-hour course of study, preparing students for internationally focused careers in business, government, education, non-governmental organizations and church-related work such as missions. It also provides excellent preparation for graduate study in a variety of disciplines, including international relations, diplomacy and development, among others. The major includes a strong international fieldwork emphasis, with required cultural immersion and internship components. Students are required to obtain a minimum grade of C- in all courses taken for the major.
Degree Outcomes
Graduates with a BA in international studies will:
- Understand and explain the complexity of international affairs
- Communicate about global issues with Christian insight and wisdom
- Demonstrate preparedness to work, serve and learn in international contexts with sufficient global awareness
- Able to live skillfully and act sensitively in multicultural environments
- Act as people of influence in global spheres