International Studies Major

The world is increasingly interconnected. Understanding our globalized world requires tools from many different academic disciplines. The importance of connecting and communicating with different people and cultures is more important now than ever. International Studies is an interdisciplinary major, coordinated by the departments of anthropology, business management, economics, history, modern languages, and political science. The program is flexible to your interest, but designed so you understand what’s happening in the world through the impacts of language, the nature of economics, the institutions of international politics, and recognizing how the world was before. Our majors graduate with a marketable skill of inter-cultural competence derived from their time living and studying abroad and through at least one other required experiential learning activity.
 
Our integrated study abroad component requires students to study abroad for at least one semester, though many students choose to participate in two experiences. Students complete intermediate study of a foreign language—or pursue the study of a new language while studying abroad—and can participate in an advanced study of the languages offered at Washington College before participating in a study abroad program in a country at speaks that language. 
 
We have vetted, established partnerships around the world, making it possible to immerse yourself in multiple cultures while studying at Washington College. Our partners have good academic programs, and meet our health and safety standards. We also prepare you for the culture you will be immersed in before going abroad. You can start studying abroad in your second year, after getting foundational knowledge, writing and critical thinking skills to go abroad and take courses that are not in our catalog. Financial support for study abroad—to cover air fare, visas, and small stipends—is available to our majors through Margaret Bennett Fellowships.  
 
Our senior seminar pulls together the coursework you’ve taken at Washington College with the experiences you’ve had abroad and the expertise you’ve developed along the way to synthesize it all into what really resonates. That will prepare you to complete a Senior Capstone Experience (SCE). There are two options for an international studies SCE: write a research-based thesis or complete a self-designed project. Self-designed projects are research-based but present those findings in a more creative way than a traditional thesis paper (ex: creating a showroom experience, photo exhibit, or musical performance). Students with double majors can combine their SCEs into one project. All SCEs will be presented at a symposium.  
 
Tailor the international studies major to your interests through coursework. Double majoring is common and can help you focus on taking the courses that will benefit you most after you’ve graduated. Visit our virtual catalog to see our course offerings.