This major gives students a broad view of the world with an emphasis on developing regions. The core ensures that students have broad exposure to major world religions, international politics and government, recent global history and relationships between geography, culture, arts and society. This major is a good point of departure for pursuing an international-related master’s degree and/or many careers, including international business, diplomacy and fields related to human development.
Please note that in addition to the course requirements listed below, International Studies majors must also meet the following requirements:
- Study Abroad
International Studies majors must have a study abroad experience, normally in a non-English speaking country, for at least ten weeks, including a minimum of eight weeks of study through an approved college-level institution. Many of the credits earned can be applied to the major. Students who attended high school in another country may petition the international studies advisory committee for exemption from the requirement for study abroad.
- Language Proficiency
International studies majors must demonstrate proficiency in a language other than English at the 202 level or higher. This can be accomplished by completing a 202 (or 300 or higher) course in a language or by verification through the Languages, Literatures and International Studies Department (i.e. determined by examination or through some other means of confirming proficiency). Alternatively, if a student studies a language abroad that is not offered at NMU and only achieves proficiency in that language through the 102 level, the student may demonstrate proficiency in a second language other than English through the 102 level.
- Program Approval
A program approval for international studies majors must be prepared and approved by the Department Head from the Languages, Literatures and International Studies Department and a copy forwarded to the Registrar’s Office. A degree evaluation will not be performed until approval is received.
For department information or additional degree requirements, go to the Languages, Literatures and International Studies department page.
For related information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/home.htm