International Studies

About the B.A. in International Studies

One of the distinguishing characteristics of Arcadia University is its commitment to internationalization. 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. An important component of Arcadia’s global perspective is the many international courses and experiences available through the International Studies major.

Housed within the Department of Historical and Political Studies, this interdisciplinary major focuses on global issues and includes both regional and thematic concentrations. All International Studies majors study abroad for at least one semester as well as develop competence in a language other than English. Students are able to work in close contact with faculty with expertise in a number of different disciplines, including History, English, Sociology, Anthropology, Criminal Justice, Political Science, Economics, and Modern Languages.

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

• Three-year accelerated program
• Five-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 business, government, international development, social work, counseling, journalism, law, religion, non-profit management
• 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