Undergraduate Program in International Studies

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The Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (BAIS) draws its courses from numerous departments in the College of Arts and Letters and throughout the university. Students can choose courses from a large number of disciplines including history, geography, political science, anthropology, economics, philosophy, languages, communication and women's studies.

A degree program in international studies can lead to a career in international publications, or at agencies such as the U.S. Agency for International Development, the World Health Organization, or in other government departments and embassies. Additionally, those who have completed a degree program in international studies can embark on careers as diplomats in international visitors councils, or as public affairs coordinators in organizations with international clients. However, the international studies career path is not limited to the work stated above. Additional industries in which graduates of the international studies degree program are qualified to work include agricultural economics, sales, banking and finance, labor relations, travel coordinating, hospitality, journalism, humanitarian services and human resources. Domestic and foreign corporations, international marketing firms, international trade firms, convention and visitors' bureaus, international airlines, and contracting and consulting firms are all places that employ people with an international studies education.

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The International Studies program combines history, geography, political science, and foreign languages in one major. It has been designed to give students numerous opportunities to study abroad and/or to work in an internationally-oriented internship for academic credit.

The faculty in the International Studies program is dedicated to teaching. Professors bring a vast knowledge and expertise to the classroom--most have studied, taught, and conducted research all over the world.

The International Studies program combines history, geography, political science, and foreign languages in one major. It has been designed to give students numerous opportunities to study abroad and/or to work in an internationally-oriented internship for academic credit.

The faculty in the International Studies program is dedicated to teaching. Professors bring a vast knowledge and expertise to the classroom--most have studied, taught, and conducted research all over the world.

Resources

Explore departments and offices around the University with helpful information for International Studies students.

Careers & Internships

What can you do with a degree in International Studies? Find a list of potential employers and job titles.

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Graduate Credits for Undergraduates

An ODU undergraduate degree-seeking student with senior standing and a 3.3 or better grade point average in the major field of study may be allowed to take up to 12 hours of graduate course work for graduate credit. Up to 6 hours of graduate credit taken prior to completing the undergraduate degree may be applied toward the undergraduate degree. The graduate credit may be used as a substitution for required undergraduate courses only with the approval of the department chair or chief departmental advisor of the student's undergraduate program. All graduate hours applied to the undergraduate degree will be counted in the undergraduate grade point average, will appear on the undergraduate transcript, and will be used to determine graduation with honors. The combined undergraduate and graduate hours taken during any semester must not exceed 18. Contact the GPIS Director for more information at rkarp@odu.edu.