Interdisciplinary Studies
International Studies Major
We prepare globally-minded graduates for international-facing careers. Explore global issues and how nations and regions interact around the world. Examine the influence of history, international politics, economy and development, and culture. Study a language and study abroad. Do it through an interdisciplinary lens.
Your Four-Year Journey
Students often combine International Studies with a major or minor in Business, Community and Justice Studies, Economics, French, Global Health Studies, Political Science, or Spanish.
In year one, the goal is to take Introduction to International Studies and introductory economics and political science courses. You'll also start or deepen your study in a language! Over four years, you will craft your trajectory with a highly personalized major.
By the end of year two, it is essential to find a regional focus: East Asia, Europe, Latin America, or the Middle East and North Africa! Your language proficiency will intensify as you look into study abroad programs. Many students also pursue an internship in the summer after their second year.
The third year is exciting year because students study abroad in the fall or spring semester. Another vital part of the third year is beginning to orient yourself toward a Senior Comp topic. For many, this comes into focus while studying abroad as you make connections to what you learned in class.
Completing the remaining coursework and the Senior Comp are on the agenda in the fourth year. The Senior Comp is a two-semester process. In the first semester, you'll identify a topic, the faculty you'll work with, and begin research. In the second semester, you'll continue to research and write your Senior Comp, including a part in the language you studied. Some students are even selected or chosen to present their project!
Career Outcomes
93
Of Allegheny graduates are employed, in grad school, or in full-time service within six months.
80+
Acceptance rate to graduate and professional school for Allegheny students
Alumni Careers — A Sampling
Faith Simms, Alumna
Class of 2019, J.D. Candidate at Villanova Law
“ Students are asked to approach issues in a more holistic manner, which greatly improves their critical thinking. You’ll broaden your perspective and be pushed out of your comfort zone. ”
