The interdisciplinary international affairs major gives students a multifaceted perspective on world issues and foreign policy from several fields of study while preparing them for a career in foreign service, international banking, insurance, law, government, information and social agencies, multinational businesses, the military, journalism, and teaching.
Because the major requires the scholarly insights and analytical tools of several disciplines, it exposes students to a variety of viewpoints in the social sciences and humanities. Required interdisciplinary concentrations in global themes and in geographical areas provide a diversified and balanced view of global issues.
The program draws upon the talents and international specialties of faculty members from various departments, including anthropology and sociology, economics, foreign languages and literatures, government and law, history, and religious studies. They teach courses focusing on different aspects of international affairs and conduct research related to their specific international interests. Students have opportunities to work one-on-one with them through an independent study or honors thesis.
Majors are strongly encouraged to study abroad. Students may also consider a semester studying international relations in Washington, D.C. A variety of other activities are available such as a three-day European Union simulation at the State Department and various embassies in Washington, D.C.
