International Studies
Interdepartmental Undergraduate Major and Minor, Administered by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Undergraduates completing the International Studies major understand the interconnections between local and global issues and events. They can integrate their understanding of a selected global issue with knowledge of the major culture, values, and problems of a selected geographical area. They can communicate with persons of cultures other than their own and, in so doing, appreciate the impact of their own cultural and educational experience on their perception of the world. The international studies program provides opportunities for students to develop skills and understanding about international events and problems, and global issues. The program is designed for students who wish to prepare for work or advanced study in the international arena, such as in foreign service, journalism, advocacy organizations, scientific or research institutions, business, nongovernmental development organizations (NGOs), humanitarian agencies, environmental organizations, human rights organizations, think tanks, international agriculture, engineering, and other fields.
A secondary major and a minor in International Studies are available for undergraduates. The program requirements are structured around a combination of a designated Topical Module and a Geographic Regional Studies Component. Each student’s program of study is designed to reflect programmatic opportunities at Iowa State University and the academic, intellectual, and professional interests of the student.
Secondary Major
A student seeking a secondary major in International Studies must successfully complete a minimum of 27 semester credits in courses approved for use in the International Studies program, including: INTST 235 Introduction to International Studies, INTST 430 Seminar in International Studies; 21 credits in courses approved for the International Studies program, with a minimum of 9 credits (at least 6 of which are numbered 300 or above) in a designated Topical Module and a minimum of 9 credits (at least 6 of which are numbered 300 or above) in a Geographic Regional Studies Component; Fulfillment of Language Proficiency (see below); study abroad.
The major must include a minimum of 12 credits not used to meet any other department, college, or university requirement.
Minor
A student seeking a minor in International Studies must successfully complete a minimum of 18 semester credits in courses approved for use in the International Studies program, including: INTST 235 Introduction to International Studies, INTST 430 Seminar in International Studies; 12 credits in courses approved for the International Studies program, with a minimum of 6 credits (at least 3 of which are numbered 300 or above) in a designated Topical Module and a minimum of 6 credits (at least 3 of which are numbered 300 or above) in a Geographic Regional Studies Component; Fulfillment of Language Proficiency (see below); study abroad.
The minor must include a minimum of 9 credits not used to meet any other department, college, or university requirement.
Language Proficiency
Students with a major or minor in International Studies fulfill the Language Proficiency requirement through one of the following options:
- Completion of two years of university-level language instruction in a single, appropriate foreign language, as demonstrated by a foreign language course numbered 202 or higher. Students whose first language is other than English fulfill Language Proficiency with ENGL 250 Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition at a grade of “C” or better.
- Passing an examination given by the Dept. of World Languages and Cultures or otherwise certifying proficiency equivalent to two years of college instruction. Students proficient in languages not offered at ISU may petition for special consideration.
- Intensive study abroad experience that includes in-the-field-use of a language other than English (individual prior approval of committee required for this option).
A. Topical Modules
- Global Environmental Issues
- Globalization and Economic Development
- International Issues in Science and Technology
- International Communication
- International Conflict
- Social and Cultural Change
B. Geographic Regional Studies Component
- Africa and Middle East
- Asia
- Latin America
- Western Europe
- Russia, East Europe and Central Asia
International Studies students are required to participate in study and/or work abroad programs of at least three weeks in duration. Students may petition to use up to 12 credits in the major (9 credits in the minor) earned in study abroad and/or international internship programs to substitute for courses within the Topical Module, Geographic Regional Studies Component, and/or Language Proficiency requirements.
