De La Salle University

What you'll study

This programme provides a core grounding in international studies—theory, comparative politics, global governance and research methods—while allowing concentrated study of the United States across political, historical, cultural and economic dimensions. The curriculum balances required courses, American Studies electives and experiential learning.

• Core international studies subjects: introductory international relations, comparative politics, international law and organisations, foreign policy analysis, and research methods.
• American Studies track: US history (colonial period to contemporary), American government and politics, US foreign policy, race and ethnicity in the United States, American society and culture, and American literature and media.
• Cross-disciplinary electives: geopolitics of the Asia–Pacific, migration and diaspora studies, economic history, public policy, and area studies seminars that situate the US within broader transnational networks.
• Practical components: internship placement with embassies, NGOs, think tanks, media or private sector partners; a capstone research paper or honours thesis; language or regional studies electives to enhance comparative perspective.
• Skills development: qualitative and quantitative research techniques, policy analysis, academic and public writing, oral presentation, and cross-cultural communication.

Entry requirements

Applicants must have completed secondary education or an equivalent qualification and meet the general admission standards of De La Salle University. Admission typically considers academic records, performance on university assessment procedures, and an interview or written statement that demonstrates interest in international affairs and American studies.

• Strong academic standing in secondary school with evidence of ability in social sciences and humanities subjects.
• Fulfilment of De La Salle University's general admissions requirements, including any assessment tests and interviews administered by the admissions office.
• Proof of proficiency in English if required by the university’s language policy; prior coursework in history, social studies or related subjects is advantageous.
• Mature or non-traditional applicants with relevant work or volunteer experience may be considered under the university’s admission guidelines.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require strong analytical, communicative and cross-cultural skills. The major opens pathways in public service, international organisations, diplomacy, and the private sector, as well as further academic study.

• Diplomacy and foreign service, including embassy or consular work and policy posts dealing with US relations.
• Policy research and analysis at think tanks, advocacy organisations and government agencies focused on US or international affairs.
• Journalism, media and communications roles covering politics, culture and international news with an emphasis on the United States.
• International development and non-governmental organisations engaging in programme design, monitoring and cross-border collaboration.
• Private sector careers in international business, market analysis, public affairs, and corporate social responsibility that value regional expertise and cultural literacy.
• Graduate study in international relations, American studies, law, public policy or related disciplines.

Why study at De La Salle University

De La Salle University offers this major within a liberal arts and social sciences environment that emphasises interdisciplinary thinking and research-led teaching. Students benefit from faculty with expertise in politics, history and cultural studies, and from the university’s strong connections in Manila’s policy, diplomatic and NGO communities.

• Academic environment: a rigorous curriculum that blends theory and practice, small seminars and opportunities for independent research.
• Practical exposure: access to internships, public lectures, and partnerships that allow students to apply classroom learning to real-world settings.
• Global opportunities: exchange programmes and study-abroad links that enable comparative study and direct engagement with US institutions and academic centres.
• Student support: career services, research resources and language training to prepare graduates for diverse professional paths or further study.