International Studies Major, Bachelor

The international studies major combines interdisciplinary and disciplinary courses to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the interrelationships among people as they function in different cultural, economic, and political settings. The major's primary goal is to train students as leaders who will be cognizant of and sensitive to the requirements of changing realities in the international community in the belief that such knowledge will enable them to value diplomacy over other methods of dispute resolution.

It focuses on cultural predispositions, historical underpinnings, systems of governance, and diversity of interests globally. The courses span several disciplinary boundaries, including political science, economics, history, and geography.

The major is designed to offer students an opportunity to understand the diverse cultures of the world and prepare them for an international career. It includes a study abroad experience that will increase language competency and improve cultural understanding by exposing students to a different geographic setting. Students will be offered an opportunity for an in-depth examination of the

issues and problems associated with increasing world interdependence through coursework and interaction with international scholars and practitioners.

The major is designed to be both intense and rigorous. It will provide a core of knowledge to prepare students for graduate and professional schools or the job market. It will increase student research opportunities on international topics that will enable them better to understand themselves and their roles within their own culture.

Upon completion of the international studies major, a student will be able to:

Demonstrate familiarity with a variety of cultural histories, economic theories, and political orientations

Recognize the contributions of target disciplines in the field of international studies

Conduct scholarly research using several interdisciplinary perspectives

Demonstrate analytical and critical thinking skills in the interpretation of international issues and events

A global leader in the education of women of African descent, Spelman is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), and we are proud members of the Atlanta University Center Consortium.

Today our student body comprises more than 2,100 students from 43 states and 10 foreign countries. Spelman empowers women to engage the world's many cultures and inspires a commitment to positive social change through service. We are dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences and the intellectual, creative, ethical, and leadership development of our students.

Spelman is proud of its 76 per cent graduation rate (average over six years), one of the best in the nation, but our support does not stop once you step on stage to take your diploma. Our global alumnae network is strong, providing connections and helping hands to graduates as they begin on their path of global engagement.

Spelman College, a historically Black college and a global leader in the education of women of African descent, is dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences and the intellectual, creative, ethical, and leadership development of its students. Spelman empowers the whole person to engage the world's many cultures and inspires a commitment to positive social change.