International Studies
2004-2006 Undergraduate Catalog | Catalogs

The international studies program is an interdisciplinary major involving political science, history, economics, and anthropology. The aim of the program is to train students in the theory and methods of international relations. Students should achieve a thorough grounding in basic principles as well as familiarity with the history, institutions, political processes, and cultures of at least one of the important regions of the world.

Major in International Studies leading to a BA degree

Students who major in international studies must complete twelve courses in the program with a grade of C or higher. This includes a set of six core courses and six electives. In addition students must demonstrate intermediate level skill in a foreign language. Language courses may also be counted toward general education requirements. At least five courses in international studies must be taken at Roosevelt University.

The core courses include work in the component disciplines of the program. They are designed to provide students with a variety of analytical tools and to offer basic information concerning international studies. Students who wish to pursue specialized topics may do so by independent study; however, no independent study may be undertaken until the core sequence has been completed. Each independent study course must have the approval of the program coordinator. A student may take only one independent study course for credit in the major.

Elective courses are grouped into two sets: those dealing with the international system as a whole and those dealing with a particular region or culture. Students should select courses from both groups with the aim of developing understanding of systemic processes and of one major area. Students may take, for example, both Pos 306 and Pos 389, counting one as a core course and the other as an elective. Each student should choose electives that are tailored to his/her interests and that constitute a coherent program. In order to do this each student should consult the program coordinator before registration each semester.

Core courses:

Elective courses:

Group A: Courses Dealing with the International System

Group B: Area and Regional Studies