BA in International Studies

Welcome to the Bachelor of Arts in International Studies!

Our interdisciplinary degree program offers an engaging and comprehensive introduction to the complex interconnections that shape our modern world. Combining the study of international relations, global and developmental challenges, and contemporary belief systems, the program provides students with the opportunity to focus on a major world region while developing essential skills in language, analytical thinking, research, and economic literacy—key foundations for graduate study and careers in international fields.

A distinctive feature of the International Studies program is the opportunity for students to gain firsthand experience in an international environment. Whether through a study abroad program or an internationally focused internship in the United States, students immerse themselves in cross-cultural settings that enrich their academic journey and prepare them for professional roles in a globalized world.

As an interdisciplinary program, International Studies highlights the valuable contributions of various disciplines in understanding and addressing global challenges. Students will gain a broad perspective on international issues and world cultures through the diverse methodologies of the social sciences and liberal arts. The program also serves as excellent preparation for careers in fields such as government, communications, business, law, journalism, and international non-profit organizations. To further align their studies with career goals, students are encouraged to pursue a second major or minor in a complementary field.

To ensure a well-rounded and personalized educational experience, all International Studies majors work closely with the undergraduate advisor to design a program of study that balances coursework across participating disciplines. Students are encouraged to select their foreign language, study abroad or internship experience, and senior seminar research project to align with their chosen regional or thematic focus.

We invite you to embark on this exciting academic journey and explore the many opportunities the International Studies program has to offer!

  • I/ST 100 (3 units)
  • ECON 100 (3 units)
  • I/ST 122 (3 units)

  • I/ST 300 (3 units)
  • I/ST 311 (3 units)
  • I/ST 491 (1 unit)  (1 unit) Intercultural Competency for Education Abroad or Internships. Students preparing to go abroad or find an internship should take this course. 

  • Electives (18 units):
    • Thematic area electives: Students will choose 9 units from any 1 thematic area. Thematic areas are comprised of UD I/ST courses (course lists below) 
      • Labor & Migration (9 units) 
        • International Development (9 units)
        • Environment & Sustainability (9 units)
        • Inequality & Social Change (9 units)
    •  

Students may choose from the standard major with a geographic concentration or the dual track major, which counts units from their 2nd major towards required I/ST elective units. In either case, students will take 9 units in group 2.

 

  • Option A: Geographic concentration Please see the undergraduate advisor for courses that fulfill the varius geographic concentrations. Choose from one of the following areas:

    • Africa & Middle East (9 units) 
    • North, Central, and South Americas & the Caribbean (9 units)
    • Asia & Oceania (9 units): 
    • Europe & Eurasia (9 units)

     

  • Option B: Dual major. Students choosing the dual major option should meet with the undergraduate advisor for approval of the classes from their other major that will count.
    • 9 units of upper division electives in 2nd major, approved by the I/ST advisor
    • *Up to 3 units of upper division methods coursework can be substituted for I/ST 311, with I/ST advisor’s approval

I/ST students are required to meet a 200-level competency in a second language. This may be completed in a number of ways, not just coursework. For example students may demonstrate their competency through:

  • 3-4 units of a second language taken at the 201B-level or equivalent at CSULB or equivalent at another institution. Students are encouraged to study language as part of their study abroad experience
  • Demonstrated 2nd-year level proficiency in a second language, subject to approval by the International Studies advisor

Students should meet with the undergraduate advisor to discuss how they will fulfill the language requirement.

Culminating Experience: Study Abroad and Internships

A core component of the International Studies major is the opportunity to engage directly with global and cross-cultural experiences through study abroad or an internship. All students must complete either a semester abroad or a significant internship experience.

These immersive experiences are essential for developing the intercultural competencies, professional skills, and real-world insights that complement your academic coursework. Whether studying at a university abroad or interning with an internationally focused organization, you will gain valuable perspectives that enhance your understanding of global issues and better prepare you for future careers in international fields.

Students are encouraged to complete their geographic concentration courses abroad. They can meet with the study abroad/internship advisor to learn more about how to fit study abroad into their coursework for the major, helping them complete a semester or more abroad while staying on track for graduation.

This experience is bookended by two required courses:

  • I/ST 491 (1 unit) Intercultural Competency for Education Abroad or Internships. Students preparing to go abroad or find an internship should take this course. 
  • I/ST 492 (2 units) International Studies Internship/Foreign Study. Students enroll in this course at the end of their study abroad/internship experience to reflect on their experiences,  integrate them into their major, and communicate about them in meaningful ways to serve their future career plans.
Culminating Experience: Senior Research Seminar

Students should take I/ST 490: Senior Research Seminar in their final semester. In this course, students develop a significant independent research paper under the guidance of an I/ST faculty member.