BA International Studies

The International Studies program prepares students to work in today’s global marketplace in any field or to continue their studies in graduate school or law school. Studying international politics, world cultures and languages makes international studies graduates competitive for a broad range of jobs. Students may go on to join the Peace Corps, serve in the military or work with an organization or business with international missions, partners and clients. They also may pursue careers as diplomats, policy and security analysts, researchers and civil servants.

International Studies is a “coordinate major,” which means students complete the degree in addition to a second major such as business, communication, history or art. Students take an introductory course and global issues course, and research a global issue or event as part of a capstone experience. They also choose an elective and internationally focused politics, culture and globalization courses (one each) that best match their interests. Course offerings range from Global Justice, Religion and Human Rights to History of Capitalism. In addition, students become proficient in at least one world language through the intermediate level. Spanish, French, German, Japanese and Cherokee are offered at WCU. Students also can satisfy the language requirement through studies at other institutions, including study abroad experiences.