International Studies
Student learning outcomes describe what students know, understand and are able to do as a result of completing a degree program. The learning outcomes for this program are:
- A facility with LANGUAGE
Majors in International Studies can understand basic conversational language, carry on uncomplicated conversations, read uncomplicated texts, and communicate practically in writing. - An appreciation of cultural DIVERSITY
Majors in International Studies can describe and give examples of the diverse practices that distinguish world cultures. (Comprehension level/Evidence—test question or short essay)
- An ability to explain HISTORICAL context
Majors in International Studies can describe and analyze major events and trends in Western and non-Western regions, with in-depth study of at least two distinct cultures. (Comprehension level/Evidence: test question or short essay)
- REGIME ANALYSIS
Analyze and appraise political regimes using structural, institutional, historical, cultural and/or ethical theoretical frameworks found in the literature.
- An application and appraisal of INTERDISCIPLINARY SOCIAL SCIENCE methodology
Majors in international studies can use statistical tools, models or theories to analyze and interpret information from any number of social science fields, including history, political science, economics, and geography, and draw conclusions from that information. They can apply and appraise multiple models, theories or methodologies that have been brought to bear on a problem germane to international issues. They can explain and criticize the methodologies they use. (Evaluation level/Evidence—long analytical paper or SR/SR presentation)
Minor in International Studies - 5 units
The minor in International Studies provides an international dimension to almost any discipline of study, including major programs in the social sciences, modern languages and literature, and education. Students in the School of Business Administration who desire a foundation for international business will find the minor an ideal complement to a major in general business, finance, management, or marketing. International business majors will benefit from the minor's added focus on international perspectives from the humanities and social sciences. A minor in International Studies can also strengthen preparation for admission to graduate programs or professional schools of law or medicine.
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Requirements | ||
| POLI 203 | International Relations | 1 |
| INSU 201H | Foundations of Globalization | 1 |
| One unit in modern language 200-, 300-, or 400-level | 1 | |
| Select one unit from the following: | 1 | |
| International Economics | ||
| Cultural and Political Ecology | ||
| International Law | ||
| Politics of International Trade and Finance | ||
| Select one unit from the following: | 1 | |
| Sub-Saharan African Economic History of Colonialism and its Aftermath | ||
| Latin American History: The Challenges of Modern Nationhood | ||
| Modern Britain | ||
| The History of Modern China | ||
| The Modern Middle East | ||
| Contemporary Islamic Civilization | ||
| Politics of the Developing World | ||
| Comparative Politics | ||
| Russian Foreign Policy | ||
| Russian Politics | ||
| Latin American Politics | ||
| Politics in Africa | ||
Or an approved 300- or 400-level Study Abroad unit | ||
| Total Units | 5 | |
Nylen, William R.
Professor and Chair of Political Science, 1992
BA, University of California at Berkeley
MA, Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies
MA, MPhil, PhD, Columbia University
Since International Studies is an interdisciplinary program, faculty who participate in the program are 'housed' in several academic departments across the campus: Economics, History, Political Science, Modern Languages, Sociology, Environmental Science & Geography, and more.
INSU 201H. Foundations of Globalization. 1 Unit.
This foundational course introduces students to the fundamental debates concerning the history, economics, and politics of globalization. The history of capitalism including the political-economic paradigms of mercantilism, liberalism, communism, fascism, and socialism are considered. Processes of colonialism/imperialism and neocolonialism are discussed, including official and non-government foreign aid. The course concludes with contemporary debates on globalization and freedom, democracy, and inequality. Offered in the fall semester.
INSU 397. Internship in International Studies. 0.5 or 1 Units.
The interdisciplinary nature of the International Studies Program means that most courses in the Program are taught by members of participating departments: Economics, Political Science, Modern Languages, etc.