Are you interested in what happens outside of your country? Are you curious about other cultures in the world? Do international events fascinate you? Do you dream of visiting far off lands to explore the capitals of Europe, the wildlife parks of Africa, country villages in South America, or the wonders of rapidly evolving China? Would you like to have a solid understanding of another language? Of another culture? Do you wonder about issues such as global climate change, why there is so much conflict in the world, or what can be done about widespread poverty? If some or all of these questions intrigue you, then you should consider a major in international studies.
The international studies major is designed to assist students to understand better the world we live in, and to have the capacity to function effectively in that world. To that end, international studies students take courses in a variety of disciplines including history, political science, economics, the humanities, modern language as well as international studies itself.
What makes the international studies program unique at Norwich, and what distinguishes the international studies graduate, is the student's command of a foreign language and deep understanding of at least one other culture. The requirements include at least one semester in a study abroad program where the student takes all courses in the language of that country. Students are prepared for that experience through the course work they take on campus, including advanced studies in Spanish, French, German, or Chinese.
In today's rapidly globalizing world, the language skills and inter-cultural sensitivity that the international studies student acquires are crucial for careers in government, the military, business, international agencies, or non-profit service organizations.
This multidisciplinary program is for students desiring a flexible curriculum with an international focus. Students take courses in International Studies, Political Science, History, Economics, and Modern Languages. This program provides a solid basis for graduate studies or careers in government service, international agencies, multi-national corporations, law, or the military.
In addition to the Bachelor of Arts and General Education requirements, all International Studies majors are required to complete IN101, IN410, PO105,202,215, HI108, EC201 and 202.
Majors must also complete two history electives, and either EC403 or 419. International Studies majors must select four comparative politics or history courses from the following list: Two courses from PO310,320,340,348 and two courses from HI312,313,314,351,352,353,354.
International studies majors must also complete two modern language courses numbered 205 and 206 and two 300 level modern language courses or their equivalents. All International Studies Majors must study abroad for one semester during the junior year in French, German or Spanish speaking countries. One of the 300 modern language courses will be taken abroad and transferred to Norwich. In order to study abroad and successfully complete the major, International Studies Majors must have a 2.5 GOA by the end of their Sophomore year.
The following courses must be completed with a grade of ”C“ or better: IN101, IN410, PO405, PO202, PO215, Modern Language 205 and 206, EC201, EC202.
