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International Studies

International studies focus on international relations and culture, and the transnational forces that have shaped them. Social, political, economic, environmental, and other complex issues extend beyond language and borders in our globalized society.

Why Choose International Studies?

We live in an era of global change, where international economic and power structures are always shifting. Prepare to meet the challenges of the 21st century in one of the most globally diverse cities in the world: New York.

The Curriculum

The international studies major is interdisciplinary, and course topics include:

  • International economics
  • Culture though film
  • Relations & organizations
  • Literature and war
  • U.S foreign policy
  • Diplomatic history
  • World art

As an international study major you will also choose one area of concentration:

  • Africa and the Middle East
  • Latin America and the Caribbean
  • Asia
  • Europe
  • Global issues

NYC: A Global City

There’s no better place to learn about international studies than a global city like New York. With hundreds of international organizations at our doorstep, you have the opportunity to do an internship and gain critical experiences to help shape your career path. Our students have interned at organizations including:

  • The United Nations (UN)
  • Council on Foreign Relations
  • Clinton Global Initiative

Manhattan University participates in two Model UN conferences each year: a fall conference in Washington, D.C., and the spring National Model United Nations Conference in New York City. This hands-on experience lets participants acquire expertise on a particular country, which they represent at the conference. Participate for credit in the spring, or as an extracurricular activity in the fall.

The World As Your Classroom

As an international studies major, you will be encouraged to study abroad at least once during your academic journey. Choose a short-term course during winter intersession or summer break. Or embark on a semester or year-long program. Our students have crossed the globe to study abroad in:

  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Chile
  • Japan
  • Morocco
  • Europe

Would you rather get your feet wet in Washington, D.C.? We are a partner school with American University’s Washington Semester Program, where you can gain onsite experience at key organizations in D.C. Concentrate in foreign policy, global economics and business, international law and more.

What Will You Learn?

As an international studies major you will learn to:

  • Analyze complex scenarios
  • Solve problems
  • Communicate effectively
  • Understand cross-cultural issues
  • Think critically about the past
  • Study culture and society
  • Speak a foreign language

You may want to add a second major or a minor if you have specific graduate work or career in mind. International studies is also available as a minor.

See degree requirements

What Will You Do?

More than ever, professionals must bring greater cultural knowledge, foreign language skills and international expertise to their industry. A major in international studies can lead to a career in business, education, government, or non-governmental or international organizations.