Are you interested in international affairs – in critical issues such as global economy, health, poverty, security, the environment, human rights, war and peace? Do you want to study these subjects and pursue a career based on your interests? Do you want to be in classes that engage you, force you to develop your opinions, and debate with those with different understandings of the world? Do you want a close relationship with your faculty, participate in international simulations, apply your learning in real situations, and travel and discover the world?
If so, you should choose International Studies as a minor at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The International Studies program is a study of the world that prepares you to pursue internationally-oriented careers in either governmental, private non-for-profit or private for-profit sectors. The program offers a rigorous curriculum that will give you a set of skills needed to succeed in any field. It is also a great preparation for graduate school.
International Studies uses both humanistic and scientific perspectives and skills to examine all the countries and regions of the world. We will deliberately help you learn and practice the skills necessary to be successful in working in these fields. Students completing a minor in International Studies will be able to:
- describe key international studies theories and concepts;
- apply international studies theories and concepts to analyze real-world events, issues, and phenomena;
- demonstrate the ability to think critically; and
- demonstrate effective communication skills.
The International Studies minor embraces an interdisciplinary curriculum which emphasizes global awareness in preparation for careers in international service. It enhances the development of advanced foreign language and communication skills and offers crucial insights into the scope of international and global problems. The International Studies curriculum is designed for students interested in seeking employment with a U.S. agency or company involved in international affairs, or attracted to work experience overseas. Military and diplomatic service, commercial enterprises, educational agencies, and development and human rights organizations offer opportunities for persons well-versed in global concerns. It also provides a solid foundation for potential graduate study in the Social Sciences, the Humanities, Journalism, and International Business and Law. Because of the rigorous nature and the complexity of this curriculum, students are encouraged to contact the International Studies Coordinator during their freshman year to become familiar with the program and to discuss a feasible course of study.
As an International Studies minor, you will hone the writing, communications, analytical and presentational skills that are essential to an educated person. This kind of education will prepare you to think critically and independently, with tolerance for others and concern for current affairs. Today, students can reasonably expect to change jobs more than once and even to have more than one career. An International Studies minor at UA Little Rock is excellent preparation for the flexibility that you are likely to encounter.
The International Studies Program Welcomes Students
- Who are highly motivated and inquisitive
- Who have study skills and intellectual discipline
- Who are open-minded and independent
- Who show initiative and commitment
- Who are willing to grapple with unfamiliar concepts
- Who have a genuine interest in other cultures
A minor in International Studies requires 21 hours, including:
- INTS 2301 World Cultures
- INTS 2302 Global Issues
- 12 hours of upper level electives approved by an advisor
- Completion of a 2000-level foreign language course
