Marymount University

What you'll study

The Area Studies bachelor’s degree at Marymount University combines disciplinary approaches—history, political science, anthropology, economics and language study—to build deep regional knowledge. You will take core courses in comparative area studies and research methods, regional history and politics, and cultural analysis, alongside sustained language instruction in a chosen language. Typical modules include Introduction to Area Studies, Regional Politics and Governance, Social and Cultural Change in [region], Research Methods for Area Studies, and Advanced Language and Translation.

Students choose a regional focus (for example Latin America, East Asia, Europe, the Middle East, or Africa) and round out their programme with electives that might cover migration, development policy, media and society, religion and society, or economic change. The degree emphasises applied learning: many students complete an internship with a government office, NGO or think tank, undertake a community-based project, and finish with a capstone seminar or honours thesis that synthesises language skills and regional research.

• Core disciplinary foundations: history, politics, economics, cultural studies
• Intensive language instruction tied to regional focus
• Research methods and regional fieldwork or practicum
• Electives in policy, media, migration, development and comparative issues
• Capstone project or senior thesis and opportunities for internships and study abroad

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically required to hold a recognised secondary school leaving qualification. Marymount considers academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in area studies and regional focus, and at least one academic reference. Standardised tests such as the SAT or ACT may be optional depending on the applicant’s education system and Marymount’s current admission policy; check the university’s admissions pages for details.

Transfer applicants should supply college transcripts and a description of completed coursework for credit evaluation. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternative evidence of English-medium instruction. Some background in social sciences, history or language study is advantageous but not always mandatory; the programme welcomes motivated students from diverse academic backgrounds.

Career prospects

Graduates of Area Studies are well placed for a range of international and domestic roles that require regional expertise, language skills and analytical ability. Common career paths include:

• Diplomacy and foreign service
• Policy analysis and research at think tanks and international organisations
• Non-governmental organisations and international development
• Intelligence and security analysis
• International business and trade roles requiring regional market knowledge
• Journalism, cultural institutions and education
• Further study at master’s level in international affairs, public policy, regional studies or related fields

The programme’s emphasis on internships and Washington, D.C. proximity enhances practical employability through real-world placements and networking opportunities with government agencies, NGOs and private sector employers.

Why study at Marymount University

Marymount University offers a small-campus environment with relatively small class sizes and personalised attention from faculty who are experienced in international and regional research. Its location in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area provides exceptional access to internships, guest lectures and professional networks across diplomacy, policy and international organisations.

The university supports language learning and experiential education, with study-abroad partnerships and internship pathways that allow students to apply classroom learning in regional contexts. Marymount’s advising and career services work with Area Studies students to map academic plans to career goals, helping to secure placements, research opportunities and graduate-school preparation.