B.A. in International Studies

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in International Studies at Mississippi College is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program designed to educate students on the multifaceted aspects of foreign cultures, global issues, and international relations. This major provides an in-depth understanding of the interconnectedness of politics, economics, history, geography, and cultural dynamics on a global scale. The program's core objective is to cultivate globally-minded citizens who possess the analytical tools and cross-cultural competencies necessary to navigate complex international environments. As a comprehensive major, the B.A. in International Studies does not require students to pursue an additional minor, allowing for a concentrated focus on global affairs.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in International Studies at Mississippi College is designed for broad exposure to global themes and deep cultural immersion. Beyond the university's core requirements, students are required to complete 18 hours in a single modern language, with at least 6 of those hours at the 300 level or higher, ensuring a significant level of language proficiency. The program also includes a strong interdisciplinary core of 12 hours in International Studies, covering courses such as "Global Dimensions of Business," "Cross-Cultural Understanding," "Cross-Cultural Leadership," and a choice between "Comparative Governments" or "History of Political Theory." Students then select 18 hours of International Studies electives from a wide range of courses across disciplines like History, Political Science, Sociology, Communication, and Geography, focusing on specific regions, cultural aspects, or global issues. A required study abroad experience of one term is a cornerstone of the curriculum, providing invaluable immersive cultural and linguistic development. The program culminates with a 1-hour Senior Seminar.

Research Focus: The B.A. in International Studies at Mississippi College emphasizes an applied research focus, training students to critically analyze and understand global issues through various disciplinary lenses. While not focused on laboratory research, the program encourages students to engage in rigorous inquiry into international politics, economics, social dynamics, and cultural phenomena. Through coursework, students develop the skills to research specific international conflicts, global development challenges, cross-cultural communication strategies, and the impact of historical events on contemporary global affairs. The required study abroad experience often provides direct opportunities for cultural immersion and firsthand observation, which can inform research interests. The culminating Senior Seminar typically involves a comprehensive research paper or presentation, allowing students to synthesize their learning and apply analytical frameworks to a chosen international topic.

Industry Engagement: Mississippi College's B.A. in International Studies program demonstrates strong industry engagement by preparing graduates with highly sought-after skills for a globalized workforce. The program places a significant emphasis on experiential learning opportunities, including the required study abroad component and encouragement for students to participate in international internships. These experiences allow students to apply their linguistic and cultural knowledge in real-world settings within government agencies, international organizations, non-profits, or multinational corporations. The university's Career Services office actively assists students in securing these valuable internships and connecting with employers who seek graduates with strong cross-cultural communication, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, all of which are hallmarks of the International Studies degree.

Global Perspective: Mississippi College is deeply committed to fostering a robust global perspective, and the B.A. in International Studies is central to this mission. The program is inherently global in its design, requiring intensive foreign language study and a mandatory study abroad experience, which immerses students directly in foreign cultures and political systems. Curriculum components like "Global Dimensions of Business," "Cross-Cultural Understanding," and "Cross-Cultural Leadership" further cultivate an awareness of diverse perspectives and the complexities of international interactions. Elective courses spanning various regions (e.g., Middle East, Latin America) and global themes (e.g., international relations, politics of developing nations) broaden students' understanding of global challenges and opportunities. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are well-equipped to engage critically with an interconnected world and contribute effectively to international endeavors.