In today’s globalized world, it’s important for people to not only understand various businesses and economies, but also to be able to comprehend the cultures and societies behind those industries: That’s where international studies majors come in.

As an international studies major, students get the chance to take an in-depth look at a particular region in the world, and to become experts on what’s happening in the area politically, economically, and socially. This major is often an interdisciplinary study that touches on history, political science, and economics, to name a few. By examining many different areas, students are able to gain a better understanding of what drives and motivates other cultures.

NerdScholar spoke with some of the top international studies programs in the country to find out what makes them unique. Here’s what they had to say:

UC Irvine

At UCI, international studies students gain a unique perspective on global issues, societies, and cultures. Using 21st century analytical skills, students are able to “understand and contribute to shaping the rapidly evolving global community,” Laura Rico of the communications department says. Four focal areas—global issues and institutions, global conflict and negotiation, the global role of California and the U.S., and global society and culture—allow them to develop expertise in specific aspects of international life; while new regional area specializations—the francophone world and the Islamic world—reflect global realities. Opportunities for students include the International Studies Public Forum, which is a bi-weekly lecture series on new ideas and research; the International Peace and Conflict Studies House, and two student clubs, featuring distinguished speakers, group events, and field trips; and several innovative internships, including Humanitarian Law with the Red Cross and genocide awareness with Living Ubuntu. The International Studies Public Forum also currently organizes at least one “professional development” talk per quarter as part of the speaker series where guests, including program alumni from nongovernmental organizations, professional MA programs, and U.S. government agencies present to students.

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