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Bachelor of Arts in International Studies

An International Studies student at AIC connects with peers while presenting during a symposium event.
The Flag Room, a highlight of AIC's Shea Library featuring international flags from around the world.

Program Overview

Develop a global perspective that balances breadth and depth: your entry into the world of international affairs.

Program Format

On-Campus

Degree Options

  • Four-Year BA Program

Time to Complete

  • Full Time: 4 Years
  • Transfer Pathways: 2 Years

Why Major in International Studies at AIC?

The International Studies program at American International College offers a multidisciplinary analysis of the politics, geography, economics, and history of societies around the world.

Emphasizing interdisciplinary learning, students have the flexibility to delve into various fields of knowledge. Through research and internships, they acquire practical skills to translate theoretical insights into tangible solutions in real-world contexts.

What to Expect

  • Chart your own path: Working with a faculty advisor, choose one of three concentrations to hone your knowledge while building a strong foundation to follow your passions after graduation, wherever they take you.
  • Teaching assistant opportunities: Guide the learning process as a junior or senior, engaging new students in psychology topics.
  • Jump-start your graduate education: Eligible seniors can take one to two graduate-level courses at the undergraduate rate. As you begin a master’s degree at AIC, your motivation will pay off in terms of time and cost savings.

Program Details

AIC’s Bachelor of Arts in International Studies program prepares you for a broad array of career paths based on your passions and personal aspirations.

  • Students will demonstrate comprehension of the key aspects of economic, political, and cultural globalization, drawing connections between social issues and their global contexts. 
  • Students will be able to identify historic and contemporary interconnected global trends, patterns, and processes, and how they relate to specific regions or issues. 
  • Students will demonstrate communication and critical thinking skills in discussing complex transnational challenges in diverse settings. 
  • Students will be able to apply knowledge and skills to understand global challenges, engage with diverse perspectives, and collaboratively address pressing issues on a global scale.

Major Courses: In addition to AIC Plan for Excellence (APEX) requirements, students must complete all courses listed here to receive a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies

  • POL1500: Comparative Politics  
  • HST1430: World History II (since 1400) 
  • ECO1010: World Economic Geography 
  • POL2410: International Relations 
  • ECO1401: Macroeconomics 
  • HST2631: Introduction to Historical Research and Writing 
  • SOC2650: Sociology of Globalization

Choose one of the following courses:

  • IBS1420: Diverse Cultures of the World
  • INT2100: Power, Identity, and Privilege
  • PHI2010: World Religion

Choose one of the following courses:

  • INS4800: International Studies Seminar
  • INS4899: International Studies Internship

Modern foreign language study (American Sign Language not eligible) through at least intermediate level, with strong recommendation for eight semesters (may be waived at discretion of program chairperson if student demonstrates fluency in a second language).

Selection of a specialization consisting of four courses in one of the following areas: 

International Security (choose 4 courses) 

  • CRJ1400: Introduction to Criminal Justice
  • CRJ3331: Terrorism
  • CRJ3641: Comparative Criminal Justice Systems
  • CYS1000: Introduction to Cybersecurity
  • CYS2000: Cybercrime and Governance
  • CYS4200: The Future of Cybersecurity

International Economy (choose 4 courses) 

  • IBS1400: Introduction to International Business
  • IBS3400: International Economics
  • IBS3410: International Marketing
  • IBS3820: Global Supply Chain Management and International Negotiation
  • IBS4430: International Organization and Administration
  • POL3412: Contemporary Problems in International Relations

Global Health and Environment (choose 4 courses)

  • PCH1030: Introduction to Public Health
  • PCH2030: Global Health
  • PCH3250: Environmental Health
  • PCH3630: Community Health Promotion
  • BIO1130: Environmental Biology
  • SOC3440: Sociology of Health and Illness

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Minor Courses: Students must complete all courses listed here to earn a Minor in International Studies:

Choose five courses from the following: 

  • POL1500: Comparative Politics
  • HST1430: World History II (since 1400) 
  • ECO1010: World Economic Geography 
  • POL2410: International Relations 
  • ECO1401: Macroeconomics 
  • HST2631: Introduction to Historical Research and Writing 
  • SOC2650: Sociology of Globalization

Choose one from the following courses:

  • IBS1420: Diverse Cultures of the World
  • INT2100: Power, Identity, and Privilege
  • PHI2010: World Religion

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Individuals interested in studying International Studies at AIC—or exploring related studies in The Education Hive—will apply for admission as a first-year, transfer, or international student.

Review tuition rates and fees for the upcoming academic year.

Undergraduate Tuition and Costs

Scholarships

Grants and scholarships are awarded based on both need and merit.

All Undergraduate Scholarships

AIC’s transfer partnerships with Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) provide an uninterrupted path from community college to our bachelor’s in Liberal Studies program, as well as a $4,000 per year joint admissions scholarship.

If you have questions on transferring from one of our partner schools, please contact the admissions office at 413.205.3201.

Encouraging holistic involvement, AIC’s campus culture allows everyone to find their place to build connections and fuel their passions:

  • Presentation opportunities: Held each semester, our Undergraduate Research Symposium lets you share your research findings while getting inspiration from your peers.
  • The International Club: True to its name, this organization brings together students from around the globe and from our local community to share and explore the many cultures that comprise AIC’s student body. Learn more.
  • All student groups: Pursue a hobby or embrace your identity while managing a club’s resources, funds, and goals. Browse all student organizations.
  • Leadership development: Through groups, athletics, service, and outreach, Yellow Jackets explore the art of taking charge and how objectives are achieved through motivation, engagement, and vision. Learn more about leadership development.

Have a Question?

Contact our Assistant Dean and Division Chair or email admissions@aic.edu for general college admission requirements.

Sandra Sego, PhD
Assistant Dean, Division of Life and Social Sciences

Phone: 413.205.3207
Email: sandra.sego@aic.edu
Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Academic and Career Support

AIC gives you the space to explore your interest while preparing you for life after college. Throughout, you’ll work with advisors and mentors to define your academic and professional goals and the ways to achieve them.

An AIC student talks course selection for the Psychology major with their academic advisor.

Student Success Advising

Saremi Center for Career Development

Accessibility Services and Academic Accommodations (CASAA)

Related Programs

Whatever type of career you want to pursue, AIC’s programs offer real-world experience to set you on your path:

International business majors at AIC connect with other students at a campus event.

International Business, BSBA

Sociology, BA

AIC School of Education students working with middle school students at Birchland Park in East Longmeadow

Educational Studies, BS

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At AIC, your passions will lead you on the path to professional success:

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