Kutztown University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme combines courses from humanities, social sciences and language departments to give a contextualised understanding of one or more geographical regions (for example Latin America, East Asia, the Middle East, Europe or Africa). Typical study includes regional history, comparative politics, cultural studies, contemporary social issues, and at least one modern language relevant to the chosen region.

• Core modules: Introduction to Area Studies, Research Methods in Area Studies, Theories of Culture and Identity.
• Regional courses: Survey courses on regional history and politics (e.g. Modern East Asia, Contemporary Latin America, Middle East Society and Politics).
• Language study: Progressive language sequence in a regional language (for example Spanish, Arabic, Chinese) to develop reading, writing and speaking skills.
• Electives: Media and film of the region, literatures in translation, economic development, migration and diaspora studies, religion and society.
• Experiential learning: Internship placements, community-based projects, and opportunities for study abroad or exchange to gain immersive regional experience.
• Capstone: A senior seminar or independent research project that integrates disciplinary approaches and original research on a regional topic.

Structure and assessment

The degree is structured around general education requirements, a core Area Studies sequence, language progression and electives. Assessment typically combines essays, exams, presentations, language performance, internship evaluation and a final research paper or capstone project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Kutztown University considers academic record, completion of college-preparatory subjects, and personal statements. Typical requirements include a solid GPA in college-preparatory courses; applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency via recognised tests or approved alternatives. Mature applicants and transfer students are considered on the basis of previous college work and relevant experience. Some language placement testing may be required on entry to determine appropriate course level.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Area Studies develop analytical, research, language and intercultural skills valued across public, private and third-sector employers. Common career paths include:

• Government and public diplomacy roles at local, state or national level.
• International non-governmental organisations and development agencies.
• International business and trade, including roles that require regional expertise and language ability.
• Education, cultural heritage and museum work, or community outreach positions.
• Journalism, media and communications focused on international affairs.
• Further study in fields such as international relations, public policy, regional studies, area-specific language and literature, or graduate research.

Why study at Kutztown University

Kutztown offers a small-campus environment within a public university system, allowing close faculty supervision and accessible advising across disciplines. The university emphasises experiential learning, providing pathways to internships in nearby urban centres, community partnerships, and study-abroad arrangements that complement classroom learning. Students benefit from a liberal-arts foundation, language instruction from experienced faculty, and career services that help translate regional expertise into practical employment and graduate-school opportunities.