International Studies Degrees
International studies degrees are ideal for individuals seeking a multidisciplinary study of the economic, political, and environmental aspects of global issues and cultures. These programs typically draw from liberal arts perspectives and cover broad topics related to globalization, development, international law, and the global economy. Students with international studies degrees may gain crucial skills to prepare them for careers as international managers, foreign policy analysts, journalists, postsecondary educators, and interpreters, among others.
Colleges and universities typically offer international studies programs on campus, online, or in a hybrid learning environment of both in-person and online courses. Online courses in international studies may utilize digital tools, such as email, forums, and video instruction. Additionally, students may decide to concentrate on one or more of several specializations offered within their program that are tailored to their personal interests.
The Top Bachelor's Degree Programs in International Studies
| School | Tuition* | Acceptance Rate | Graduation Rate | Financial Aid % | Placement Services | Career Services | Accepts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Los Angeles | $13240 | 12% | 92% | 61% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 2 | University of Pennsylvania | $57770 | 8% | 96% | 59% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 3 | Georgetown University | $56058 | 14% | 95% | 55% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 4 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | $16540 | 23% | 93% | 65% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 5 | The University of Texas at Austin | $10824 | 32% | 86% | 67% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 6 | University of California-Berkeley | $14253 | 16% | 93% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 7 | University of Utah | $8615 | 62% | 70% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 8 | University of Washington-Bothell Campus | $11390 | 74% | 69% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 9 | University of California-San Diego | $14415 | 31% | 87% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 10 | University of Florida | $6381 | 37% | 88% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 11 | Texas A & M University-College Station | $11361 | 58% | 82% | 76% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 12 | University of Washington-Tacoma Campus | $11639 | 87% | 56% | 83% | No | Yes | AP Credits |
| 13 | University of California-Santa Barbara | $14391 | 30% | 83% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 14 | University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | $9063 | 80% | 70% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 15 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | $10725 | 54% | 88% | 61% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 16 | Texas Tech University | $9300 | 69% | 61% | 78% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 17 | University of California-Irvine | $13727 | 27% | 84% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 18 | University of Colorado Boulder | $12500 | 78% | 69% | 66% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 19 | University of Vermont | $18802 | 67% | 77% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 20 | University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus | $9335 | 67% | 52% | 82% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 21 | Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | $12682 | 21% | 90% | 69% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 22 | San Diego State University | $7510 | 34% | 73% | 60% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 23 | Carnegie Mellon University | $57119 | 15% | 90% | 58% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 24 | University of Iowa | $9606 | 83% | 72% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 25 | Boston College | $57910 | 27% | 94% | 56% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 26 | Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College | $11962 | 75% | 68% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 27 | University of Wyoming | $4747 | 96% | 60% | 93% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 28 | San Jose State University | $7852 | 64% | 64% | 73% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 29 | University of Maryland-Baltimore County | $12028 | 61% | 71% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 30 | University of Notre Dame | $55553 | 16% | 96% | 68% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 31 | College of the Holy Cross | $54740 | 34% | 90% | 75% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 32 | Salisbury University | $10044 | 74% | 70% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 33 | University of Oregon | $12720 | 82% | 74% | 77% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 34 | California State University-Channel Islands | $6802 | 86% | 54% | 83% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 35 | Washington University in St Louis | $55292 | 14% | 95% | 51% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 36 | University of North Florida | $5964 | 72% | 67% | 84% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 37 | Bentley University | $51830 | 47% | 90% | 83% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 38 | University of Richmond | $54690 | 28% | 89% | 64% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 39 | North Dakota State University-Main Campus | $9619 | 94% | 60% | 90% | No | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 40 | Michigan State University | $15555 | 71% | 81% | 70% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 41 | Fort Hays State University | $5280 | 91% | 43% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 42 | Sonoma State University | $7880 | 91% | 62% | 71% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 43 | University of Kansas | $11166 | 93% | 67% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 44 | California State University-Long Beach | $6834 | 39% | 74% | 81% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 45 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | $9366 | 78% | 66% | 91% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 46 | University of North Dakota | $9736 | 81% | 61% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 47 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | $6905 | 65% | 64% | 74% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 48 | University of Kentucky | $12360 | 96% | 66% | 94% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 49 | University of Arizona | $12379 | 85% | 65% | 91% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 50 | California State University-Monterey Bay | $7143 | 75% | 63% | 81% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit Study.com's ranking methodology page.
*Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
What Kinds of International Studies Degrees Are There?
International studies degrees are available at every level of higher education, from associate to doctoral. Certificate programs in related subjects are also available. We will explore these different programs in greater detail below.
Associate Degrees in International Studies
Associate degrees in international studies are designed to offer students foundational knowledge in subjects related to global history, politics, cultural studies, linguistics, and literature. Students enrolled in these associate-level programs have the potential to gain wide-ranging skills such as critical thinking, elementary communication in a foreign language, data analysis, and advanced research methodologies.
On average, associate degree programs take two years to complete and require approximately 60 credits of general coursework in reading and writing, science, and mathematics, in addition to several electives. Associate degrees in international studies typically result in an Associate of Arts (AA) or an Associate of Science (AS). Students with an associate degree in international studies may decide to further their education by enrolling in a bachelor's degree program or pursue entry-level employment in the field.
Bachelor's Degrees in International Studies
Bachelor's degree programs in international studies provide a multidisciplinary approach to broad global topics that allow students to understand and solve complex world issues. International studies curriculums typically incorporate concepts from the social sciences, humanities, and arts as students may develop unique perspectives and skills for a career in industries, such as politics, education, journalism, or economics.
Many bachelor-level degree programs require 120 credits of general courses, core program requirements, and electives. Students are typically given the option to pursue a concentration within their degree programs and are encouraged to study abroad to gain greater intercultural experiences and enhance their foreign language skills.
Bachelor-level degrees in international studies take about four years to complete and may culminate in a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in International Studies.
Master's Degrees in International Studies
A master's degree in international studies provides an advanced curriculum beyond an undergraduate degree that addresses contemporary global challenges. Topics usually include, but are not limited to, global environmental change, human rights, international law, and international economics. Program durations differ at each school; however, many master's degree programs require 30 to 36 credits of core requirements and electives. Students may also need to complete a thesis/dissertation or capstone project that demonstrates their learning of key concepts.
Master-level international studies programs often provide the option for students to specialize in one or more concentrations, or pursue a master's degree in a different yet closely-related subject. Typically, these graduate programs culminate in a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS) in International Studies, however, similar degrees could look like an MS in International and Development Economics or an MA in International Affairs.
Upon completion of a master's degree in international studies, students may seek career advancement in fields like national defense, international business, or broadcasting, while others may carry their graduate degree into a doctoral program. For students interested in international law, some schools offer a combined Juris Doctor (JD)/MA.
Doctoral Degrees in International Studies
A doctorate in international studies is the most advanced level of education students can obtain and is ideal for individuals seeking employment in international law, government, post-secondary education, and research. Scholars typically must complete 45 to 60 credits of specialized coursework related to cultural studies, foreign policy, conflict resolution, and development, among other disciplines.
To be admitted into a doctoral degree program for international studies, students should hold a master's degree in a related subject area and maintain a minimum 3.0-grade point average. Many doctoral programs require students to specialize in a specific concentration, complete a teaching apprenticeship and submit a thesis/dissertation and defense to graduate.
International studies doctorates are typically Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in International Studies, although related degree titles may include Ph.D. in Political Science or a Juris Doctor (J.D.) in International Law.
Certificates in International Studies
Undergraduate and graduate-level international studies certificates are available and provide students with broad expertise in various global perspectives and issues, as well as intercultural communication. Certificates are ideal for students seeking new or improved skill sets, entry-level employment, or who are interested in pursuing a change in careers or advancement in their current industry.
Although many certificate programs require about 15 to 18 credits of an internationally-focused curriculum, other programs may require about 26 credits. Depending on the certificate program, students can typically complete their coursework in one or two years, but program lengths could vary for different reasons.
There are several certificate programs in international studies to choose from. For example, global studies, diplomatic studies, and international politics. For students who do not wish to enroll in a college certificate program, free international studies courses are available online; however, these courses do not usually offer college credit.
International Studies Bachelor's Degree Concentrations
Bachelor's degrees in international studies often encourage students to concentrate on a specific world affairs theme, region, or culture. Of course, concentrations and specializations are wide-ranging from school to school, however, the following study tracks are examples of concentrations typically available in this major:
International Economy
This concentration is designed for students to examine the theoretical perspectives of international trade, foreign markets, and international economic policy. Students pursuing an international economy track typically gain an understanding of how governments work congruently to influence economic trends, as well as the modern-day economic implications associated with globalization, environmental degradation, and global deindustrialization. Course topics may include international marketing, the global economy, and environmental economics.
Development Studies
This concentration approaches the growth and development of nations from a governmental, economic, environmental, and cultural perspective. Students who pursue a development track may study several current and future challenges presented in third world countries while contributing reflections and resolutions for greater economic, political, and cultural planning on the world stage. Course topics may include urban anthropology, human rights, and the history of globalization.
Area/Regional Studies
Students may decide to concentrate in a particular region, such as Asia, the Middle East, Russia, Western Europe, Latin America, Africa, or the Caribbean. Cultural and regional concentrations tend to offer specialized courses in art, history, anthropology, and literature about those chosen regions of study. Some international studies programs allow students to concentrate on both a specific culture or region in addition to a world affairs track.
Curriculum for a Bachelor's Degree in International Studies
Because there are numerous concentrations in international studies degree programs, students typically have many course options to choose from. Bachelor-level programs tend to devote the first half of their curriculums to general coursework while focusing on core requirements, concentration courses, and electives in the second half.
The following titles are examples of courses offered in bachelor's international studies degree programs:
- Global Development
- Introduction to Human Rights
- Cultural Anthropology
- Environment and Development
- Globalization and Geographic Diversity
- Introduction to Russian Culture
Global Development
This course is designed for students to explore various historical and economic facets of global development, including the political, cultural, and societal implications that underdeveloped countries face in modern times. Students should be able to examine and interpret data, as well as apply analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to solve key issues related to global capitalism, social inequalities, policy-making, and markets.
Cultural Anthropology
This course is ideal for students interested in pursuing area/regional or cultural disciplines within international studies. The Cultural Anthropology course aims to provide foundational knowledge of human diversity and how culturally-organized traditions and beliefs influence, and are influenced by, various ideologies, behaviors, and environments. Students should be able to gain advanced reading and writing skills, as well as a deep awareness and open mind about different cultures, beliefs, and historical trends.
Geographic Diversity
This course provides an account of the history of globalization leading up to the modern-day. Topics may include an investigation into European settlements, global conflicts between different countries or entire regions, as well as the environmental, governmental, industrial, and economic components of globalization. Students who take this course typically enhance their communication and cross-cultural skills, as well as their research capabilities.
Difference Between International Studies & International Relations Degree Programs
Many colleges and universities offer degrees in both international studies and international relations. While these programs may cover similar topics and theories, there are a few differences that set them apart.
International studies programs typically examine cultures, religions, linguistics, historical and societal perspectives, and government systems to better understand the world. International relations, on the other hand, places greater emphasis on foreign policy, historical and contemporary conflicts between different countries, and the political, economic, and military exchanges between nations.
Students in international studies are likely to gain broader, more liberal outlooks with regards to human impacts on the world and vice versa; while students who pursue international relations are typically interested in bridging a gap between intercountry relationships and political science.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Bachelor's in International Studies?
Program durations tend to vary; however, many bachelor's degree programs in international studies take about four years to complete 120 credits of coursework. The amount of time it takes to complete a bachelor's degree may also depend on whether a student is enrolled in the program full-time or part-time, whether or not their schools offer summer classes, and if they must complete specific program requirements, such as seminars or internships.
Some students in degree programs for international studies opt to study abroad, which could potentially factor into program duration. Additionally, some international studies bachelor-level programs offer an accelerated curriculum or a curriculum for a combined bachelor's and master's degree.
Enrolling in a School for International Studies Bachelor's Degree Program
First-time students should visit their intended schools' websites to fill out an electronic application. Students should then send in their academic records (e.g. high school transcripts and transferable credits), test scores, letters of recommendation, and any requested essays and statements. Most colleges require that students pay a nominal fee when they submit their application.
Transfer students from another institution usually follow similar application procedures, including sending in their academic records from their previous schools. Some colleges require a minimum grade point average to be considered for admission, however, it depends on the school.
Students interested in pursuing a bachelor's degree in international studies should visit the program's webpage to find out if there are any additional criteria for consideration. Some international studies programs require students to have completed a minimum amount of credits or to have passed a series of introductory prerequisite courses from the program. Colleges may also request a personal statement demonstrating your interests in the field of study.
Accreditation for Bachelor's in International Studies Degrees
Accreditation is given to colleges, universities, and programs when they have proven they provide quality curriculum and instruction, educational and professional resources, and the ability to meet the learning needs of its students. Attending an accredited school or program is necessary to meet eligibility criteria for financial aid, scholarships, and even increase the chances of employment in numerous international studies careers.
Specialized accreditation may be granted to specific international studies programs. For example, by the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA), which bases its criteria on the offering of an advanced, career-driven, graduate-level international affairs curriculum. Additionally, study abroad programs may hold their own accreditation through, for example, the College Consortium of International Studies (CCIS) which ensures students receive a quality education in their degree of study overseas.
Students can visit their school's website to learn more about its different accreditations, or search the U.S. Department of Education's database of accredited colleges and universities.
International Studies Licensure & Certification
Obtaining certification is one way in which professionals can stay relevant within their industries and demonstrate their career expertise. The National Association of Small Business International Trade Educators (NASBITE) offers the Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) credential to working professionals and students involved in international trade. Candidates for the CGBP must pass a 165-question exam that tests their knowledge in international business, marketing, supply chain management, and international trade.
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) also offers a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) credential. Before sitting for the exam, candidates must demonstrate that they have four years of professional experience in economic development, as well as undergo six training courses available through the IEDC.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's Degree in International Studies?
There are many history and international studies careers available for graduates with these degrees. Bachelor-level international studies programs aim to prepare students to apply transferable analytical, communication, and technical skills to whatever industry they work in.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2019, individuals who worked in international studies careers had a median salary of:
- Interpreter/Translator: $51,830
- Postsecondary History Teacher: $79,540
- International Lawyer: $122,960
- Reporter, Correspondent, and Broadcast News Anchor: $46,270
- Diplomat/Political Scientist: $122,220
How to Become a Postsecondary History Teacher
Postsecondary history teachers, or professors and faculty, work at colleges and universities and are considered experts in their area of study, whether it is a specific region of the world, a particular era, or one or several world affairs topics. Typically, history professors are responsible for developing lectures, facilitating communication with students about the class subject matter, and assigning and grading coursework. To become a professor of history, students should pursue at least a master's degree in international studies or history-related subjects, although some universities and colleges require that history professors hold a Ph.D.
According to the BLS, job growth for post-secondary educators is expected to increase by 9 percent (2019-2029).
How to Become a Political Scientist
Political scientists typically examine government systems, policies, and development with an emphasis on foreign policies and affairs. Professionals in this field utilize advanced research and data interpretation capabilities, scientific and theoretical thinking, and writing communication skills to better understand how laws impact governments, the economy, and society. Sometimes known as policy analysts, political scientists usually focus on either comparative politics, national politics, or international relations and predict and provide analysis of trends based on new policies.
According to the BLS, job growth for political scientists is expected to increase by 6 percent (2019-2029).
Financial Aid & Scholarship Information for Bachelor's in International Studies Degrees
Tuition costs and added expenses vary from college to college, and several factors may further determine the costs; for example, if a school is two-years or four-years, or whether a student intends to enroll in an in-state or out-of-state program.
Financial aid is available to help students pay for their education. Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine how much financial assistance they qualify for. Eligibility for financial aid includes demonstrated proof of financial need, proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible noncitizen status, and enrollment at an accredited institution.
Other financial aid may be available through scholarships, grants, and fellowships which can be found and applied for online. Some colleges provide private scholarships to its students, as well, while others may be eligible for tuition reimbursement programs through their employer. Additional options for financial assistance may be work-study opportunities or military and veteran benefits. For additional information, students should visit their college or university's financial aid office to inquire about the ways they can pay for college.
Elie Wiesel Foundation Prize in Ethics Essay Contest
The annual Elie Wiesel Foundation Prize in Ethics Essay Contest is available to currently enrolled juniors and seniors at an accredited U.S. four-year college or university. Students should compose a 3,000 to 4,000-word essay discussing an ethical issue they have personally encountered and what it taught them about ethics and themselves; for example, topics can be drawn from a recent news article, literature, a current crisis facing America or abroad, a personal matter, etc.
Applicants should submit their essay with the approval from a faculty sponsor and an official letter showing their enrollment status at an accredited school. Five winners will be chosen for prizes ranging from $500 to $5,000.
Women in Defense Scholarship
The annual Women in Defense (WID) Scholarship is available to female students enrolled at an accredited college or university; undergraduate students should have attained junior or senior status with a minimum GPA of 3.25. Applicants must be pursuing a degree in cybersecurity, government, computer science, economics, policy, international relations, etc., and be interested in national security and defense careers. To apply, students may submit an application form, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and an essay demonstrating their academic achievements, involvement in national security or defense, and career objectives.
Awards vary and winners must be able to attend the all-expenses-paid WID Scholar Celebration in the National Capital Region.
