CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary degree combines language training, disciplinary study and contextual knowledge to produce specialised regional expertise. You will take core modules in research methods and interdisciplinary theory alongside region-specific courses in history, politics, society, literature, art and economics.

• Core modules: Introduction to Area Studies, research methods, comparative regional theory, and a capstone seminar or senior thesis that integrates disciplinary approaches.
• Language training: Intensive study of the primary language or languages of your chosen region, progressing to advanced reading, writing and translation skills.
• Regional specialisms: Courses focused on history, politics, society, culture and development for regions such as Latin America and the Caribbean, East Asia, South Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, Africa, or Europe.
• Electives and skills: Comparative politics, migration and diaspora studies, urbanisation, media and cultural studies, economic development, and public policy analysis.
• Practical experience: Internships with government agencies, non-governmental organisations, cultural institutions or media outlets; opportunities for study abroad and language immersion.

Typical structure

Study normally combines general education requirements with a sequence of core Area Studies courses, a regional concentration, elective modules, and a final-year capstone project or thesis. Many students undertake an internship and are encouraged to spend a semester abroad or participate in short-term fieldwork when feasible.

Entry requirements

Entry to the programme typically requires a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Applicants should demonstrate interest in languages and international or cultural studies. CUNY admissions consider whole applications, which may include academic transcripts, personal statements, and references. Some campuses or tracks may ask for evidence of language study or place students at an appropriate language level on entry.

International applicants must meet English proficiency requirements and submit equivalent academic documentation. Mature applicants and those transferring from other institutions are considered with assessment of prior study and credits.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with region-specific expertise, language competence and research skills that are valued across sectors. Common career paths include:

• Public sector roles in foreign service, immigration services, policy analysis and local government.
• International organisations and non-governmental organisations working on development, human rights, humanitarian relief and cultural programming.
• Education and academic pathways, including teaching, museum work, archives and further study at postgraduate level.
• Media, journalism and publishing with a regional or international focus.
• International business, trade, translation and consultancy roles requiring cultural literacy and language skills.

Why study at CUNY(The City University of New York)

CUNY provides a distinctive urban setting in New York City that offers unparalleled access to diplomatic missions, international organisations, cultural institutions and a large, multilingual population. Students benefit from faculty with active research in regional studies, interdisciplinary centres and language programmes across the university system.

The university’s multiple campuses facilitate internships and partnerships with NGOs, media outlets, museums and public agencies, making it easier to combine academic study with practical experience. CUNY’s emphasis on access and affordability also makes it a practical option for students seeking rigorous regional training without prohibitive cost.