Chalkboard World Map

About the International Studies Degree

On Campus

An International Studies degree is an interdisciplinary program built around a core of courses (including foreign language study) illustrating the interdependency created by globalization. Within the program, students choose a thematic and regional focus that allows them to hone their expertise in areas best suited to their career interests and to develop linguistic skills.  

Students graduating with a degree in International Studies display an understanding of the powerful forces that define global issues from a variety of perspectives in society, including business, communications, culture, society and health issues, politics, and science. Demonstrating the skills needed to function in the global environment and interpret world events, they also exhibit an appreciation for and sensitivity to diverse cultures and values.

The International Studies major includes 12 hours of required core courses and 24 hours of electives chosen from three thematic and three area studies options. These electives permit students to design a course of study around their own interests and career plans.  

International Studies Program at a Glance

120

Credit Hours

General Studies requirement has been reduced to 30 credit hrs allowing more freedom and making it easier to transfer to UNK.

Degree Received

International Studies, Bachelor of Arts

223

Per Credit Hour

With the New Nebraskan Scholarship all undergraduate students pay in-state tuition

Stephen Lillyman

"The University of Nebraska at Kearney is anything but ordinary." Lillyman says, "the global perspective that was instilled within me during my studies at UNK proved to be immensely valuable at a company that has over 110 divisions worldwide. I thrive in cross-cultural interactions, captivated by other cultures and world views, and have since been sent around the world by my employer. I have now grown into an expanded role of business development where every day I am able to put to good use the education I received at UNK. Without a doubt, the International Studies Program at UNK laid the foundation for the success I find today."

 

Stephen Lillyman

Amphenol Corporation, Wheaton, Ill.

What can you do with an International Studies Degree

Learn more about the types of jobs and common employers that International Studies graduates work for.

Careers

  • Foreign Service
  • United States Information Agency
  • Central Intelligence Agency
  • Department of Defense
  • United Nations
  • Domestic Businesses
  • State Department
  • European Union
  • Amnesty International
  • Doctors Without Borders
  • Multinational Corporations
  • Graduate Schools