---
title: "International Studies B.A. / Minor"
url: "/academics/programs/international-studies"
type: program
date: 2026-06-19
updated: 2026-06-19
---

# International Studies B.A. / Minor

# International Studies B.A. / Minor

**Understand a connected world, and prepare to work across borders, cultures, and governments.**

The International Studies major at Manhattan University is built on a simple premise: world events can only be understood through many lenses at once, political, economic, historical, and cultural, and in both regional and global context. You choose an area of concentration, develop proficiency in a foreign language, and put your learning into practice through study abroad, internships, and an award-winning Model UN program, graduating ready for careers in government, international organizations, business, law, and beyond.

 

 [ Request Information ](/admissions/undergraduate/request-information) 

 [ Visit Manhattan University ](/admissions/visit) [ Explore Kakos School of Arts and Sciences ](/academics/kakos) 

 Credit Hours120

 Time to Complete4 Years

 

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      ![Social network theme hologram over woman's hands writing background. Concept of international people connect](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/international-studies-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=20xDdd4i) 

This program is part of [History, Political Science and International Studies](/academics/kakos/departments/hist-pol-sci-intl)

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="what-sets"> What Set's Us Apart </a>The Manhattan University Difference

## What Sets Us Apart

International Studies at Manhattan University is interdisciplinary by design, combining political, economic, historical, and cultural perspectives to make sense of a connected world. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the program pairs a focused regional concentration with language study, study abroad, and hands-on experience at the center of global affairs.

Choose Your Region

Concentrate in Europe, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa and the Middle East, or Global Affairs to build real regional depth.

 

 

Many Disciplines, One World

Draw on history, political science, economics, religion, and culture to understand international events from every angle.

 

 

Study Abroad

Spend a semester or year abroad through faculty-supported programs, immersing yourself in the region and language you study.

 

 

Award-Winning Model UN

Join Manhattan University's recognized Model UN program and represent nations at the National Model UN Conference in New York City.

 

 

Built-In Language Study

Develop proficiency in Arabic, French, Italian, Japanese, or Spanish as an integral part of your degree.

 

 

Internships at the Center of It All

Intern with international organizations, consulates, and nonprofits across New York City, steps from the United Nations.

 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="why-study"> Why Study International Studies </a>Image

      ![World Global Ecology International Unity Learning Concept](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/international-studies-1-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=AOdh1Ehu) 

The Manhattan Advantage

## Why Study International Studies at Manhattan University?

At Manhattan University, International Studies students learn to analyze global issues with the depth of a specialist and the breadth of a generalist, combining regional expertise, language skills, and interdisciplinary thinking. Through study abroad, internships near the United Nations, and a faculty of historians, political scientists, and area experts who mentor you closely, you graduate prepared for graduate school, law school, and careers in government, international organizations, business, and the nonprofit world.

 

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      ![World Global Ecology International Unity Learning Concept](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/international-studies-1-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=AOdh1Ehu) 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="degree-options"> Degree Options </a>Image

    ![illustration of many countries flags floating about someones hand.](/sites/default/files/styles/square_400/public/media/2026-06/international-studies-2-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=E6EfVaOZ) 

Degree Program Options

## Choose Your Concentrations

**Every International Studies major builds a 15-credit core and then goes deep in one of five areas of concentration, shaping the degree around the region or global theme that matters most to your goals.**

- **Europe** â&#128;&#148; Study the history, politics, art, languages, and literatures of Europe, from the medieval world through the European Union.
- **Asia** â&#128;&#148; Explore the civilizations, religions, politics, and modern transformations of East, South, and Southeast Asia.
- **Latin America and the Caribbean** â&#128;&#148; Examine the history, politics, cultures, and development of the Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking Americas and the Caribbean.
- **Africa and the Middle East** â&#128;&#148; Investigate the politics, religions, histories, and cultures of Africa and the modern Middle East.
- **Global Affairs** â&#128;&#148; Focus on transregional issues such as the environment, technology, ethnicity, human rights, and international law and organizations.

 

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      ![illustration of many countries flags floating about someones hand.](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/international-studies-2-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=2Tdx8_VC) 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="curriculum"> Courses and Curriculum </a> 

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      ![Aerial photo of New York City](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/nyc-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=p09sBu3Y) 

## Why Study in New York City

New York City is a global crossroads of ideas, institutions, and the ethical questions that shape public life, an ideal place to study philosophy. Manhattan University philosophy students put their learning into practice through internships and research projects with local and global organizations, including the New York Catholic Worker, advocacy groups at the United Nations, and Pax Christi, the international peace network. Our faculty draw on deep professional networks to connect students with opportunities in nonprofits, law, public service, and faith-based social justice work. This real-world experience near the heart of New York City helps you build the skills, connections, and confidence to launch a career or pursue advanced study.

 

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      ![Aerial photo of New York City](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/nyc-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=p09sBu3Y) 

 

## International Studies: Understand a Connected World.

At Manhattan University, International Studies students graduate with the analytical skills, cultural fluency, and global perspective that employers and graduate programs value, sharpened by language study and real-world experience abroad and in New York City. You leave ready to navigate complexity and lead across borders.

Cross-Cultural Understanding

Engage other cultures, languages, and worldviews with the empathy and insight global work demands.

 

 

Analyze Global Issues

Apply research methods and multiple disciplines to make sense of complex international problems.

 

 

Communicate Across Languages

  
Build foreign-language ability that opens doors in diplomacy, business, and international organizations.

 

 

Understand Governments and Institutions

Examine how states, international bodies, and global agreements shape relations among nations.

 

 

Argue and Write Persuasively

Build and defend evidence-based arguments about international affairs in writing and discussion.

 

 

A Truly Global Perspective

Connect regional expertise to global forces, preparing to work anywhere in an interconnected world.

 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="faculty"> Department Faculty </a>##  **Learn From Scholars of the Wider World**

International Studies draws on Manhattan University faculty whose expertise spans the globe, historians, political scientists, and area specialists studying everything from European diplomacy and East Asian politics to the modern Middle East and Latin America. They lead study-abroad programs, mentor Model UN delegations, and guide student research, working closely with you in small classes to turn your interests into expertise.

[Meet Departmental Faculty](/academics/kakos/departments/hist-pol-sci-intl/faculty "Faculty | Department of History, Political Science and International Studies")

 

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    ![Manhattan University students sitting on a bench outside talking](/sites/default/files/styles/square_400/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-bench-kakos.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=7O-wS9Ic) 

About

## The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences

The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. That foundation delivers: Manhattan University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), a measure of how strongly a degree here translates into graduates' career earnings.

 [ Explore Kakos School of Arts and Sciences ](/academics/kakos) 

 

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      ![Manhattan University students sitting on a bench outside talking](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-bench-kakos.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=mTaC6uLo) 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="careers"> Careers &amp; Outcomes </a> 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="costs-aid"> Costs &amp; Aid </a>## Program Costs &amp; Financial Aid

Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our **Jasper Guarantee**, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four yearsâ&#128;&#148;ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.

More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.

- [View Tuition &amp; Fees](/admissions/financial-aid/tuition)
- [Explore Financial Aid](/admissions/financial-aid/undergraduate)
- [Learn More About Scholarships](/admissions/financial-aid/loans-grants/scholarships-and-grants)
- [Learn About the Jasper Guarantee](/admissions/undergraduate/jasper-guarantee)

A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.

[Learn More About Costs and Financial Aid](/admissions/financial-aid/)

 

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      ![Manhattan University Admission counselors and students smiling during an open house event](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/3000x2000-admissions-open-house-2025.jpg?h=1cb48fc4&itok=37la0IHA) 

 A Smarter Investment in Your Future

## Jasper Guarantee

At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.

 [ Learn More About the Jasper Guarantee ](/admissions/undergraduate/jasper-guarantee) 

 

Image

      ![Manhattan University Admission counselors and students smiling during an open house event](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/3000x2000-admissions-open-house-2025.jpg?h=1cb48fc4&itok=37la0IHA) 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="admission-info"> Admission Information </a>## Admissions Information

**Start Your Journey in International Studies**  
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements and key deadlines below to take the next step toward a future in data-driven business.

**Requirements:**

- Application &amp; transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation

**Deadlines:**

- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1

[Admission and Application Process](/admissions/financial-aid/)

### International Students:

Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.

[Learn More about International Financial Aid](/admissions/international/financial-aid/)

 

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      ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43) 

## Prepare for the Real World

At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether youâ&#128;&#153;re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when youâ&#128;&#153;re ready â&#128;&#148; weâ&#128;&#153;re here to help.

[Visit Manhattan University](/admissions/visit)

[Apply Today](/admissions/apply)

[Request Information](/admissions/request-information)

[Explore Virtual Tour](https://www.youvisit.com/tour/62170/)

 

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      ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43)