The impact of global change is dramatic and far-reaching, altering the dynamics of everyday life. The international studies major aims to transform students into global experts who can assess and analyze the salient issues of worldwide transformation, including consumer capitalism, media culture, economic development and migration, gender and health, political conflict, sustainable futures, and the predicaments of democracy and civil society. Students in the international studies major are well-prepared for careers that demand an understanding of global cultural, social, economic, political, and environmental processes.
The BS in international and global studies offers an exciting range of courses from anthropology, economics, performing arts and visual culture, history, international business, linguistics, global works of literature, modern languages and culture studies, philosophy, political science, public policy, and sociology. This disciplinary diversity pledges not only to deliver a solid education in international studies but also introduces students to cutting-edge knowledge and expertise in global issues and world problems that will boost career opportunities.
All students complete a core concentration in globalization and choose a field specialization in one of the following areas: African studies; Asian studies; European studies; gender studies; Global Justice, Peace, and Conflict Studies; Indigenous studies; international business; Latina American studies; Middle Eastern studies; or sustainable futures. In addition, students complete an integrated international experience that encourages students to participate in a study abroad opportunity, an internship, or a cooperative educational experience in the selected world region of study.
Enhanced Career Opportunities
Building on the core curriculum, the range of choices of specialization allows students to flexibly develop the expertise required for successful career options: whether employment in state and federal agencies, private enterprise, and non-profit organizations or graduate studies. Our students are well prepared for graduate studies in fields like international law, international development, global education, administration, public policy, and the social sciences.
RIT's Pre-Law Program
Law schools welcome applications from students majoring in a wide range of academic programs. RIT's pre-law program will help you navigate the admission process for law school, explore a range of legal careers, and guide you through course selection to ensure you build the skills and competencies required of competitive law school applicants. The program is open to students in all majors who are interested in pursuing a career in law.
RIT/Syracuse University College of Law 3+3 Option
RIT has partnered with Syracuse University's College of Law to offer an accelerated 3+3 BS/JD option for highly qualified students. This option provides a fast-track pathway to law school where you can earn a bachelor's degree and a Juris Doctorate in six years. You may apply to the 3+3 option directly. Successful applicants are offered admission to RIT and given conditional acceptance into Syracuse University's College of Law.
RIT's international and global studies degree is one of the approved majors for the 3+3 option. Learn more about the RIT/Syracuse University College of Law 3+3 Option, including admission requirements and frequently asked questions.
Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees
Today's careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT's Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.
+1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor's degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate your learning and position you for success.