International Studies

The International Studies Department is anchored in the critical investigation of human rights, international relations, peace and security, global cultures, and development. Students engage with cross-cultural perspectives to analyze and evaluate contemporary issues from a global viewpoint. The curriculum is built around core courses that examine the dynamics of globalization, conflict and diplomacy, global affairs, and the historical origins of the global system. These core courses are supplemented with study in geography, anthropology, history, sociology and foreign languages, as well as courses that explore the cultural dimensions of human communities. Advanced coursework focuses on issues such as international law, food security, gender and development, war and peace, and area studies in each world region – leading to the senior thesis where students conduct original research. Students majoring in International Studies often choose to minor in several other fields such as business, political economy, environmental studies, economics, communications, sociology, and photography. International Studies can also be a fruitful interdisciplinary minor for students interested in any field.

A Bachelors of Arts in International Studies serves as an excellent base for future graduate studies in the social sciences and humanities, as well as professional degree programs in law, planning, policy, development and business. Students are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in government and international agencies, non - governmental organizations, transnational corporations, education and research, or journalism and publishing.

Students routinely take advantage of the fact that New York City is host to a wide variety of international organizations and corporations, and all International Studies majors are encouraged to undertake internships before they graduate. Placements for past students include the United Nations, East West Institute, MADRE, Asia Society, Council on Foreign Relations, International Rescue Committee, Bildner Center, UNICEF, Friends of UNRWA, Al Arabia News Channel at the United Nations, CNN at the United Nations, NESRI, CARICOM, and law firms throughout the metropolitan area. Students are also strongly encouraged to study abroad as part of their curriculum. Recently students have lived, learned and pursued service work in diverse places including South Africa, Ecuador, Senegal, Jordan, France, India and Brazil.

Division:	Humanities and Social Sciences
Division Office:	Carson Hall 202
Phone:	646-393-4111
Division Chair:	Jennifer N. Brown, Ph.D. jbrown1@mmm.edu
Administrative Assistant:	Alexandra Dill adill@mmm.edu