Pacific University offers an International Studies major and a minor. 

Students have a number of different pathways to complete the International Studies major which consists of three parts: 1) a set of core courses, 2) an international experience, and 3) a second multi-disciplinary set of courses to support the student’s chosen international experience.

Many students combine an IS major with a second major or minor–languages, business, natural sciences, social sciences, and public health are all smart options with good career prospects. Students can think of IS as a way to internationalize any major.

Important tips:

• You should pursue a second language–start taking language classes as soon as possible in the language of your choice.
• You will be studying abroad as part of your major, so think ahead about your coursework schedule for all 4 years. Most students study abroad in their junior year.
• The courses you take while studying abroad may count toward your major requirements, so be sure to discuss your course choices with your advisor.
• You should plan to study abroad in a country where your chosen language is spoken. Please contact the International Programs Office to learn about your many options (intlprograms@pacificu.edu). 
• You will be taking courses in our Global Skills program (4cr) the semesters before, during, and after your study abroad semester.

Because of the interdisciplinary nature of International Studies and the frequency with which new courses are available, the electives required in the IS major are flexible and students should speak with the IS Advisor or Chair to find out if additional courses might apply to the major.

Contact

• International Studies Advisor: Dr. Michael Miller 
• International Studies Chair: Dr. Jann Purdy

International Studies Major Requirements

A minimum of 16 (sixteen) credits of the major must be upper-division.

Core Courses

TOTAL CORE: 22 credits

Language: one (4 credits) of the following*:

*Students proficient in a second language beyond the 202 level may waive these credits/courses. Approval of the Chair of the World Languages Department is required for a waiver.

**Note: Students should plan to complete their 202 language course prior to study abroad. 

Global Skills and International Experience:

Students must Study Abroad for at least one semester.*

*Students unable to study abroad during a regular semester may request to substitute a summer international experience of at least 8 credits for the study abroad requirement. The summer international experience must be approved by the Chair of International Studies.  

Interdisciplinary Coursework (choose 4 credits from the following):

Geographic Area Studies Coursework (choose at least two courses for at least 8 credits of the following, selected to support the student's chosen geographic area of study):

Asia

Europe

Latin America

International Studies Minor Requirements

Questions? Email Dr. Michael Miller at mjmiller@pacificu.edu or Dr. Jann Purdy purd6219@pacificu.edu .

You can also check out the IS website at http://www.pacificu.edu/as/internationalstudies