International Studies

Interdepartmental Undergraduate Major and Minor, Administered by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Through a combination of coursework and study abroad, students who complete a secondary major or minor in International Studies can prepare for careers or advanced study in the international arena, such as 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, and engineering. Students in International Studies gain an understanding of global issues, learn to communicate across cultures, and develop awareness of cultural ideas and attitudes.

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 Region, both selected by the student. Each student’s program of study is designed to reflect opportunities at Iowa State University as well as the academic, intellectual, and professional interests of the student.

Secondary Major

A student seeking a secondary major in International Studies must successfully complete two core courses plus courses in a selected Geographic Region and Topical Module; demonstrate proficiency in a language relevant to the selected geographic region (see below); and participate in a required study, service, or work abroad program (see below).

Requirements for the Secondary Major in International Studies:

• INTST 235 Introduction to International Studies

• INTST 430 Seminar in International Studies

• 9 credits of coursework (at least 6 of which are numbered 300 or above) from one of the following Geographic Regions:
  • Africa and the Middle East
  • Asia
  • Latin America
  • Western Europe
  • Russia, East Europe and Central Asia
• 9 credits of coursework (at least 6 of which are numbered 300 or above) from one of the following Topical Modules:
  • Global Environmental Issues
  • Globalization and Economic Development
  • International Issues in Science and Technology
  • International Communication
  • International Conflict
  • Social and Cultural Change

• 3 additional credits of coursework selected from either the Geographic Region or Topical Module.

• Proficiency in a world language that is relevant to the selected geographic region. This can be achieved by completing the 202 level (or higher) of the language or by passing an approved exam.

• Study, service, or internship abroad for a minimum of 3 weeks, earning a minimum of 3 credits. The credits must be transferable Iowa State.

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 two core courses plus courses in a selected Geographical Region and Topical Module; demonstrate proficiency in a language relevant to the selected geographic region (see below); and participate in a required study, service, or work abroad program (see below).

Requirements for the Minor in International Studies:

• INTST 235 Introduction to International Studies

• INTST 430 Seminar in International Studies

• 6 credits of coursework (at least 3 of which are numbered 300 or above) from one of the following Geographic Regions:
  
  • Africa and the Middle East
  • Asia
  • Latin America
  • Western Europe
  • Russia, East Europe and Central Asia 
• 6 credits of coursework (at least 3 of which are numbered 300 or above) from one of the following Topical Modules:
  
  • Global Environmental Issues
  • Globalization and Economic Development
  • International Issues in Science and Technology
  • International Communication
  • International Conflict
  • Social and Cultural Change
• Proficiency in a world language that is relevant to the selected geographic region. This can be achieved by completing the 202 level (or higher) of the language or by passing an approved exam.

• Study, service, or internship abroad for a minimum of 3 weeks, earning a minimum of 3 credits. The credits must be transferable Iowa State.

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 world language that is relevant to the selected geographic region, as demonstrated by completion of a foreign language course numbered 202 or higher. Students whose first language is not English must still meet this requirement if their first language is not relevant to their selected geographic region.
• Passing an examination given by the Department of World Languages and Cultures or otherwise certifying proficiency equivalent to two years of college-level study. 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 the International Studies Director is required for this option.

Study/Service/Work Abroad Experience

Students with a major or minor in International Studies are required to complete an international experience (study, service, or internship) of a minimum of three weeks in duration. Longer experiences are recommended but not required. Up to 12 credits of coursework taken abroad can be applied to the major it it is approved by the International Studies Program Director.