Valparaiso University

What you'll study

The Area Studies major at Valparaiso University is built around intensive regional expertise (for example, Latin America, East Asia, Europe, or the Middle East) combined with strong grounding in language, history, politics, economics and cultural expression. Core components typically include introductory and advanced language courses; regional history and civilisation; comparative politics and international relations; literature and cultural studies; and methods courses in research, area-specific fieldwork, and interdisciplinary analysis.

• Language study: multi-level instruction in a relevant language, with opportunities for advanced seminar work and language practicum.
• Regional core courses: history, politics, society and cultural production of the chosen region.
• Comparative and theoretical modules: courses in globalisation, development, migration, and transnational flows to situate regional knowledge in broader debates.
• Research and methods: training in qualitative and quantitative research methods, source analysis, and area-specific methodologies.
• Capstone or thesis: a final integrative project or research thesis that demonstrates applied regional expertise.
• Experiential learning: opportunities for internships, community-engaged projects and study abroad programmes to gain practical experience in the region of focus.

The programme is flexible and designed for double majors or minors, allowing students to combine Area Studies with disciplines such as political science, economics, business, journalism, anthropology or education.

Entry requirements

Admission to Valparaiso University is based on a holistic review of academic achievement, coursework and personal qualities. Typical expectations for applicants to the undergraduate Area Studies programme include a strong secondary school record, preparation in humanities and social sciences, and evidence of interest in languages and international topics.

• Academic credentials: completion of secondary school with a competitive academic profile. International applicants should present the equivalent secondary credential and English language proficiency where required.
• Recommended preparation: coursework in history, a modern foreign language, social sciences and writing. Prior experience with the region or language is advantageous but not always required.
• Supporting documents: a personal statement or essay describing interest in area/regional studies, letters of recommendation, and any relevant extracurricular or work experience.
• Placement: incoming students with previous language study may be placed into intermediate or advanced language courses based on placement testing.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Area Studies develop strong analytical, communication and cross-cultural skills valued across many sectors. Career paths commonly pursued by alumni include:

• Roles in diplomacy, foreign service and government policy analysis
• Positions in international non-governmental organisations and development agencies
• International business, trade and cultural consulting
• Teaching and education, including language instruction and secondary education
• Journalism, media and translation/interpretation services
• Graduate study in law, international relations, public policy, regional studies or area-specific academic disciplines

Internships, study abroad experience and the capstone project often help students convert classroom learning into professional opportunities or competitive graduate-school applications.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers an intimate liberal arts environment with small class sizes and close access to faculty mentors, which is especially beneficial for interdisciplinary programmes like Area Studies. The College of Arts and Sciences supports collaborative research, faculty-led study abroad and community-engaged learning that deepen regional expertise.

• Faculty mentorship: students work closely with faculty on independent research, capstones and internships linked to their region of study.
• Study abroad and experiential learning: Valpo’s global education programmes provide structured semester and short-term options to immerse students in the languages and cultures they study.
• Interdisciplinary and flexible curriculum: the programme is designed to be combined with complementary majors or minors, enabling tailored preparation for diverse careers or graduate study.
• Community connections: access to internship placements and partnerships in the region and in nearby metropolitan areas supports professional development.

Together, these elements make Valparaiso University a supportive setting for students aiming to develop deep regional knowledge, language competence and the practical skills needed for international careers or further study.