International Studies

Immerse yourself in global issues at home and abroad

Arcadia’s International Studies majors examine complex global issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, environmental injustices, migration, and war. The program provides an interdisciplinary, immersive experience that integrates rigorous, academic learning in the classroom with applied experiences outside of it, both at home and abroad.  Whether studying abroad at top universities overseas or engaging in applied, experiential learning with Glenside faculty, International Studies majors combine pragmatic approaches with critical thinking and situate global processes in local contexts. By thinking through innovative solutions to global challenges, students work alongside faculty towards creating a just world. By experiencing the interconnectedness of the world, our students are truly prepared for life in a rapidly changing global society.

What to Expect

• A supportive, close-knit academic community who share your concerns about the world.
• A flexible curriculum that helps you develop and follow your interests.
• Interdisciplinary courses with core International Studies faculty on key global issues such as forced migration and climate change.
• Coursework in anthropology, political science, history and other disciplines.
• Travel abroad and immersive, domestic educational experiences related to global issues.
• Learning a language.
• Developing excellent research, writing and communications skills and executing an intensive, year-long research project on a topic of your choice.

Related Programs

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

Minors Related to International Studies: 

• International Studies
• Pan-African Studies
• Political Science
• History
• Philosophy
• Law and Public Policy (Pre-Law)

Double Majors:

Due to the interdisciplinary nature of International Studies coursework, many International Studies Majors choose to pursue a double major. The most common double majors are: 

• Modern Languages
• Politics, Government and Law
• History
• Anthropology

Career Paths

International Studies graduates pursue careers in international development, emergency management, non-governmental and non-profit management, advocacy, English language teaching, international education, social enterprise, social work, counseling, journalism, law, religion, business, and government.

Many of our students have an interest in Peace Corps and Americorps. 

This program also prepares students for top graduate and law schools.