Examine important global issues our world's challenges and how to build a better future. Major in international studies and gain a global perspective.
Undergraduate Bachelor of Arts
Major, Minor
124
4 Years
Salem
Becky Heath BA '23 used an internship in Peru to help local craftswomen gain financial stability. Being able to meet with the women directly allowed Becky to offer guidance tailored to their unique circumstances.
As an intern with Salto Peru, Becky worked with Peruvian women running small textile businesses. She relied on the knowledge she had acquired as an international studies major to offer these women strategic business advice, focusing on accounting, marketing, and operations.
Curious where this major can take you? These are the real internships, graduate opportunities, and careers our International Studies students have gone on to.
Our alumni find success in a variety of career paths. They are shaping the international political landscape and building connections between communities. Majoring in international studies equips you with the skills and views needed to excel in the modern workforce.
International Studies graduate prepares for career in public service
Iris Hankins ’24, an International Studies major, pursued her passion for global public affairs at Willamette by conducting research, participating in a Public Policy fellowship, and studying abroad in Strasbourg, all of which prepared her for a future in public service.
Our international studies faculty specialize in a wide variety of topics related to global issues. From Russian Studies to History, they offer a range of perspectives. You’ll learn from dedicated faculty in a collaborative community, making connections with experts who will guide your intellectual curiosity and mentor you throughout your career.
Dr. Greg Felker has a rich background in Asian and International Politics. His teaching equips students with a deep understanding of global political dynamics, preparing them for successful careers in international affairs.
Professor Raechelle Mascarenhas teaches courses related to the Economics of Developing Countries especially related to South Asia, the role of the Government in the economy, and Microeconomics at the Principles and Intermediate levels. Her research interests include Political Economy of Development on issues related to foreign aid and remittances.
Learn how to analyze economic systems, diverse historical patterns, and current international politics, as well as develop foreign language skills. Become an independent thinker and learn to collaborate in classes and through research projects. Learn how to analyze and approach global issues and become part of a global community.
Examine the nature of the relationship between capitalism and democracy. Students will critically assess theories of the development of democracy in capitalist societies, consider political representation and policy making, and review debates about these systems in the modern world.
Study the complex process of globalization that is changing today’s politics, economics, and culture. This course addresses and analyzes the political and cultural movements affecting people, knowledge, capital, technology, and consumer goods across national boundaries.
Our International Studies program requires 48 semester hours to complete the major, with a total of 124 credit hours required to complete the degree. This is comprised of 12 semester hours of core courses, 4 semester hours of non-English language courses, and 32 semester hours of elective courses.
Courses taught on a one-time basis, or special topics courses in Economics, History, International Studies, PPLE, Sociology, Business, or Law that contain significant international content may, with the chair's approval, be counted towards the required elective coursework.
Our International Studies program is open to first-year students, transfer students and international students. Learn more about Willamette’s undergraduate admissions process to get started.
Willamette University is committed to supporting International Studies majors with generous merit scholarships and financial aid. There is no separate application required for these scholarships. All admitted undergraduate applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, starting at $28,000 per year. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, taking into account cumulative GPA and SAT or ACT scores, if provided.
Willamette University