International Studies

About the B.A. in International Studies

One of the distinguishing characteristics of Arcadia University is its commitment to coxial and racial justice at home and around the world. Arcadia believes that students who learn firsthand about the interconnections among the peoples of the world will be truly prepared for life in a rapidly changing global society.

Students who participate in global efforts to create a truly just world are poised to develop innovative solutions to global challenges such as environmental crises, migration, poverty, and war. Whether students study abroad at top universities around the world or engage in applied, experiential learning with Glenside faculty, International Studies majors learn to balance pragmatic and critical thinking and to situate global processes in local contexts.

The program offers two different accelerated options for high-achieving students: 

• Three-year accelerated program
• Four-and-a-half-year accelerated (B.A./M.A.) program in conjunction with the International Peace and Conflict Resolution Program.

The International Studies program also offers a minor in International Studies.

What to Expect

• Preparation for careers in international development, non-governmental and non-profit management, social & sustainable enterprise, advocacy, education, small business development, social work, counseling, journalism, law, religion, the private sector, and government
• Preparation for graduate school
• Advanced study in the language and culture of another country
• Semester abroad requirement
• Opportunities to study abroad at some of the top universities in the world

Career Paths

Graduates may pursue careers in business, government, international development, social work, counseling, journalism, law, religion, community service and non-profit management. This program also prepares students for graduate school. Some possible fields and subfields in International Studies that offer potential careers include:

• The Foreign Service
• Diplomacy
• Academia
• The United Nations
• Research Think Tanks
• The US State Department
• The US Defense Department
• US Foreign Policy
• Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs)
• International Financial Organizations (IFOs)
• International Development Organizations
• Human Rights
• International Environmental Policy
• International Communications
• International Politics
• International Economic Policy
• Regional Specializations (e.g., Latin America, Africa, Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, Europe, the Americas, etc.)
• Private Consulting
• International Law
• International Business
• International Peace and Conflict Resolution
• Peace Studies/Peace Education
• Islamic Studies
• Judaic/Hebrew Studies
• Middle East Studies
• Globalization Studies
• Lobbying
• Intelligence
• International Journalism
• Political Analyst
• Online Instructor in International Studies
• The Peace Corps