International Studies Minor

Our international studies minor offers a well-rounded understanding of global affairs, complemented by experiential learning and high-impact activities.

The curriculum requires the introductory course International Politics, Organizations, and Society (3 credits) along with 18 credits from various disciplines to supplement and expand your knowledge:

• Six credits focus on “conceptualizing the international.” These courses will help you understand the foundational ideas and frameworks that shape international society, whether through historical perspectives, the study of globalization, or other approaches that explore how the international arena is defined and understood
   
• An additional 6 credits focus on “operationalizing the international.” These courses examine how individuals interact with, utilize, and participate in modern international practices, highlighting the institutions, dynamics, and challenges that shape contemporary global affairs
   
• The final 6 credits focus on “applying the international.” These courses immerse students in real-world international experiences; potential courses could include study abroad programs, foreign language studies, internships, and hands-on activities such as Model UN.

You can specialize in a specific region, supplement your classes with language skills and study abroad, or take courses designed to illustrate the world at large. 

Upon completion of the program, you will not only have a strong background in international studies, but you will also have completed activities and courses that extend beyond the classroom.

Beyond the Classroom

While completing your degree, you’ll have the chance to put your knowledge into action. You can learn a foreign language, compete in Model United Nations conferences held in the U.S. and abroad, and take part in internships that provide real-world experiences.  You might also study abroad for a few weeks or up to an entire year. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to connect with career workshops, research opportunities, scholarship information sessions, and more.

In conjunction with the Walker Institute, we encourage you to take part in internship opportunities. Past students have interned with local aid agencies, the Department of State in Washington, D.C., the United Nations Permanent Missions, and have traveled abroad to intern in areas such as Geneva, Switzerland, India, and Kigali, Rwanda.

In the Field

An international studies minor prepares you for a variety of careers. It is an excellent launching point to go on to graduate school and/or careers in government and non-governmental organizations, journalism, law, international business and development, teaching and research.  

Career paths could include:

• Foreign service
• Governmental agencies (Department of State, CIA, NSA, Department of Defense, etc.)
• Diplomacy
• Congressional offices
• Campaign management
• International organizations and NGOs
• Local NGOs (refugees, immigration, etc)
• International Law and Social Justice
• Private sector (multinational corporations, international banking, non-profit organizations, journalism, etc.)
• International education and development
• Humanitarian and human rights
• Global health assistance
• International law and related domestic law
• Public research specialist
• Tourism
• Linguistics specialist

Degree Requirements

International studies minors must meet the following requirements:

• Minimum of 21 credit hours
• A minimum grade of C in all minor courses (a C- is not accepted)

Course Requirements

Declare Your Minor

Contact the International Studies Academic Advisor to schedule a meeting.

Dr. Stephanie Wolfe
International Studies Advisor
stephaniewolfe@weber.edu