University of Arizona

What you'll study

This programme is built around sustained study of one or more world regions (for example Latin America, East Asia, the Middle East, or other geographic or transregional focuses) paired with intensive language learning and interdisciplinary methods. Core components typically include:

• Language training — progressive courses in a regional language to reach professional working proficiency.
• Regional history and culture — survey and specialised courses in literature, film, religion, and cultural practice that situate contemporary issues in historical context.
• Politics and international relations — study of political systems, conflict, governance and foreign policy relevant to the region.
• Economics and development — courses examining economic structures, trade, development policy and social inequality.
• Research methods — qualitative and quantitative methods, area-specific research techniques and source analysis.
• Fieldwork and study abroad — opportunities to apply language and research skills through semester or short-term study abroad, internships, and community-engaged projects.
• Capstone or honours project — a major research project, thesis or practicum that demonstrates regional expertise and methodological competence.

The curriculum is delivered through interdisciplinary collaboration across colleges and centres at the University of Arizona, allowing students to take courses in related departments such as history, political science, anthropology, economics and language departments.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet the University of Arizona's standard undergraduate admissions criteria. Typical expectations include a completed secondary school credential or equivalent and submission of official academic records. Admissions teams look for strong academic preparation in humanities and social sciences and evidence of interest in international or regional study.

Additional considerations that strengthen an application:

• Prior study of a relevant foreign language or demonstrated commitment to language learning.
• Relevant coursework in history, social studies or languages.
• Personal statement or essays that describe academic interests and regional focus.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and descriptions of completed coursework.
• International applicants will need to satisfy the university's English-language proficiency requirements and provide equivalent secondary-school documentation.

Specific document requirements and the latest admissions policies are available from the university's undergraduate admissions office; prospective students should consult the official admissions guidance when preparing an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Area Studies develop language fluency, regional expertise and analytical skills valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Public service and diplomacy — positions in foreign service, consular work, and government agencies focused on international affairs.
• International development and NGOs — programme design, project management and policy roles in non-governmental organisations and multilateral agencies.
• Business and trade — roles in international business, market analysis, country risk assessment and corporate social responsibility for firms operating in specific regions.
• Journalism and media — reporting and research positions focused on regional affairs, culture and politics.
• Education and research — teaching, curriculum development, museum and cultural institution work, or continued graduate study in area studies, international relations, law or related fields.
• Translation, interpretation and communications — language-based careers supporting cross-cultural engagement.

Internships, study abroad, and research projects undertaken during the degree often help graduates build professional networks and practical experience that ease the transition into these roles.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers strong institutional support for regional and international study through dedicated centres and departments that focus on Latin America, East Asia and Middle Eastern and North African studies, among others. Students benefit from experienced faculty who pursue interdisciplinary research, a wide range of language offerings, and partnerships that create study-abroad and internship pathways.

The university's location and resources promote experiential learning — library collections, area-specialist archives, public lectures and outreach initiatives together give students access to both scholarly and practical perspectives. The programme’s emphasis on applied language skills, fieldwork and interdisciplinary training equips graduates with the cultural literacy and professional competencies required by employers and graduate programmes engaged with global issues.