Pace University

What you'll study

The Area Studies bachelor's degree combines interdisciplinary coursework in history, politics, economics, literature and culture with focused language study and methodological training. Students typically choose a primary region—such as Latin America, East Asia, Europe, the Middle East or Africa—and tailor their courses around that geographic focus.

• Core modules: regional history, comparative politics, cultural studies, and research methods for area studies.
• Language training: progressive language courses in the relevant regional language(s), often including intensive sequences and conversation-focused classes.
• Disciplinary electives: courses from anthropology, sociology, economics, literature, and international relations that relate to the chosen region.
• Experiential components: internship placements in New York City or abroad, community-engaged projects, and practicum options that apply regional expertise to real-world settings.
• Capstone or senior thesis: a research project or seminar that synthesises area-specific knowledge and research skills, often supervised by faculty with regional expertise.
• Study abroad opportunities: semester-long or summer programmes with partner institutions in the region to develop language proficiency and on-the-ground understanding.

Entry requirements

Pace looks for applicants with a strong high-school record and evidence of academic readiness for an interdisciplinary liberal-arts curriculum. Typical application components include a secondary school transcript, a personal statement outlining interest in the chosen region and language, and at least one academic recommendation.

• Students are expected to demonstrate preparation in humanities or social sciences; prior language study is beneficial but not always required.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements via recognised tests or approved alternative assessments.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and syllabi for previous coursework to facilitate appropriate placement, especially in language courses.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Area Studies develop valuable analytical, research and language skills that are applicable across public, private and non-profit sectors. Career paths commonly include:

• Diplomacy and foreign service roles at governmental organisations and intergovernmental bodies.
• International development and humanitarian work with NGOs, foundations and international agencies.
• Global business and trade positions that require regional expertise and language ability.
• Media, journalism and communications focused on international reporting or multicultural outreach.
• Education and academic research, including secondary teaching and graduate study in related disciplines.
• Policy analysis, consulting and think-tank research on regional issues.

Why study at Pace University

Pace’s location in New York City offers unparalleled access to international organisations, consulates, multinational firms and a diverse cultural scene—resources that enrich classroom study and internship experiences. The university emphasises small classes and close faculty mentorship, enabling tailored study plans and support for language acquisition and research projects.

Pace also provides practical support through its internship and career services, study abroad partnerships, and language-learning facilities. Faculty with active regional research and professional connections help students combine academic rigour with hands-on opportunities to prepare for careers that require nuanced regional understanding.