Augustana University

What you'll study

The Area Studies degree at Augustana University is built around a core of interdisciplinary methods and a regional concentration. You will study the history, politics, literature, religion and contemporary issues of one or more world regions while developing proficiency in a relevant language.

• Core methods and theory: Introduction to area studies, comparative approaches, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and cultural analysis.
• Regional coursework: Thematic and historical courses focused on a chosen region (for example Latin America, Europe, Africa, East Asia, or the Middle East), covering politics, society, economics and arts.
• Language training: Progressive language study linked to your regional focus, emphasising communication, reading and cultural literacy.
• Electives: Options from anthropology, history, political science, economics, religious studies, media studies and environmental studies to deepen interdisciplinary perspective.
• Experiential learning: Opportunities for study abroad, faculty-led travel courses, community-based projects and internships that allow you to apply classroom learning in real-world settings.
• Capstone project: A senior seminar or thesis that integrates regional knowledge and research skills, often involving original research or a practicum.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme normally follows Augustana University’s general undergraduate entry standards and expects applicants to demonstrate academic readiness and a commitment to interdisciplinary study.

• Secondary school completion (high school diploma or equivalent) with a competitive academic record.
• Successful completion of college-preparatory coursework; coursework in social studies, languages and writing is advantageous.
• A personal statement or essay outlining interest in area studies and intended regional focus.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or other referees who can speak to academic ability and motivation.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or other approved evidence of language ability.

Placement in advanced language courses may be granted based on prior study or placement testing. Specific departmental or campus-wide admission processes should be confirmed with the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Area Studies are prepared for a range of careers that value regional knowledge, language skills and cultural literacy. Typical career paths include:

• Government and diplomacy: policy analysis, foreign service, consular work and public diplomacy.
• Non-governmental and international organisations: programme coordination, human rights work, development and advocacy.
• Business and trade: international marketing, regional analysis, client relations for companies with global operations.
• Education and research: secondary or tertiary teaching (often with additional certification), research assistantships and graduate study in related fields.
• Cultural institutions and media: museums, libraries, cultural programming, journalism and translation/interpretation.
• Local and regional organisations: community outreach, multicultural programming and policy work that serves diverse populations.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana’s strengths as a residential liberal arts university make it well suited for Area Studies. You will benefit from small class sizes and close faculty mentorship that allow for tailored study plans and close supervision of capstone research. The university supports experiential learning through internship partnerships, study abroad advising and faculty-led regional courses, helping students gain direct exposure to their chosen region.

Studying in the university’s campus environment also provides opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration across departments such as history, political science, languages and religion, while local internship placements and community partnerships in the region offer practical experience that complements classroom learning.