Idaho State University

What you'll study

The International Studies – Globalization programme is an interdisciplinary degree combining courses from political science, economics, history, sociology, anthropology and geography to analyse transnational flows of people, goods, ideas and capital. Core topics include theories of globalisation, international political economy, comparative development, global governance, migration studies, transnational networks, and cultural globalization.

• Core modules: Introduction to International Studies, Theories of Globalization, International Political Economy, Research Methods for Social Sciences.
• Regional and area studies: Courses that examine globalisation in specific regions such as Asia, Latin America, Europe or Africa, including history and contemporary politics.
• Methods and skills: Qualitative and quantitative research methods, statistics for social sciences, geographic information systems (GIS) fundamentals, and academic writing.
• Electives and special topics: Migration and diaspora, global cities, environmental globalisation, international human rights, transnational media and communication.
• Language study: Opportunities to study a foreign language to enhance communication skills and employability in international contexts.
• Capstone and experiential learning: A senior seminar or capstone research project focused on a globalization topic; practicum, study abroad, or internship opportunities to gain practical experience.

The degree typically balances classroom-based theoretical study with applied learning through research projects, internships with international or community organisations, and optional study abroad or exchange experiences to develop cross-cultural competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education with a diploma or equivalent. Typical university admission requirements include a satisfactory cumulative grade-point average and completion of standard college-preparatory subjects. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English; acceptable evidence can include recognised language tests or prior study where English is the medium of instruction.

Specific departmental requirements may include a personal statement outlining interest in international affairs, a resume of relevant activities, and favourable academic references. Transfer students should provide transcripts from previous post-secondary institutions; some credit for prior coursework may be applied toward degree requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in International Studies (Globalization) enter a wide range of careers where understanding global processes and cross-cultural skills are valuable. Common pathways include:

• International development and non-governmental organisations (project coordination, programme support, policy analysis).
• Government and public service (foreign service, trade and economic development agencies, policy research).
• Private sector roles in international business, global supply chain management, market analysis, and corporate social responsibility.
• Education, research and advocacy roles in think tanks, cultural institutions and community organisations.
• Further study at graduate level in international relations, public policy, development studies, law or business.

Internships, language skills and study abroad experience significantly enhance employability in international fields.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a supportive, student-focused environment with access to faculty from a range of social science disciplines, enabling true interdisciplinary training in globalisation. Smaller class sizes provide opportunities for close faculty mentoring on research projects and capstone work.

The university’s services for career development and internships help students connect classroom learning with practical experience, while study abroad partnerships and regional opportunities allow students to gain international exposure. The programme’s combination of theoretical grounding, methodological training and experiential elements prepares graduates for diverse roles in an interconnected world.