INTERNATIONAL STUDIES
Bachelor's Degree Programs
In today’s global marketplace, international experience and cross-cultural competency are valuable assets to nearly any career path.
Business-related careers, such as market research analysts and economists, are growing faster than the average occupation. Entering these fields with not only knowledge and technical skills, but also with a global perspective, will give you an edge in an international relations or similar career.
A degree in International Studies can also prepare you for careers in human services, advocacy, education, and city, state and federal government.
CAN WE BRAG A LITTLE?
All recent international studies majors were employed or pursuing an advance degree after graduation (2020-21 research survey respondents).
Why study International Studies at UW-Whitewater?
As a student in a highly interdisciplinary program, you’ll get to explore the world of UW-Whitewater by taking courses from several departments and participating in experiential learning opportunities that span the disciplines.
All abroad! Guaranteed international experience
As an International Studies major, you’ll spend at least a semester studying abroad. You can also pursue an internship while traveling to gain professional experience in another culture. Choose from more than 50 study abroad destinations. We also offer scholarships to help fund your travel.
Learn more about global experiences at UW-Whitewater »
United Nations Summer Program
International Studies students have the opportunity to participate in the United Nations Summer Program through UW-Milwaukee. Students earn six credits of coursework through a week of classes at UWM, followed by four weeks in New York City attending UN briefings with member country diplomats and conducting independent research.
Undergraduate research
International Studies majors are encouraged to engage in UW-Whitewater’s nationally respected Undergraduate Research Program, giving you the opportunity to develop key research, writing and presentation skills under the supervision of a UW-Whitewater faculty member.
What our International Studies students do
Spend a semester (or more) immersed in another culture
Personalize their major and minor to fit career interests
Gain real-world experience through projects with real clients
Campus and community involvement
You’ll find dozens of student organizations at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, many of which are dedicated to culture and diversity. Examples include:
- Japanese Language and Culture Club
- Chinese Language Club
- DREAM Scholars and Colleagues
- German Club
- Latinos Unidos
- Multicultural Muslim Association
- Southeast Asian Organization
- Spanish Club
- TIFU Cultural Ensemble
- Doctors Without Borders Student Chapter
- Empower
- International Business Club
- International Student Association
What our graduates do
Work in various roles within international businesses
Serve in public administration or represent the U.S. in a diplomatic role
Help others through careers in human rights and advocacy
Careers for International Studies majors
After earning their degree in International Studies, UW-Whitewater graduates find work in organizations such as:
- FBI
- Peace Corps
- United Nations
- Greenpeace
- Amnesty International
- International Red Cross
- U.S. Department of Commerce
- U.S. Department of Treasury
- U.S. Department of Agriculture
If you’re in the public diplomacy emphasis or are focusing on a specific region, a career in foreign service could also be appealing. The U.S. Department of State, for example, employs consulate officers, economic officers, management officers, public diplomacy officers and political officers.
Students with a business, economics or foreign language emphasis can take their international relations skills to global firms, and to a variety of departments, such as human resources or logistics.
Graduate degrees
Some of our students continue their education and pursue graduate or professional degrees in human rights, international law, international affairs, public administration and business.
Joy Hynum, from Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, completed an International Studies minor and was hired as a bilingual health navigator with Rock River Community Clinic in Whitewater, Wisconsin. "I am most proud of studying abroad in Seville, Spain, and having multiple internships and relevant job work before graduation.”
Our International Studies faculty
International Studies majors are exposed to a wide range of professors — and viewpoints — from across the university. You learn from faculty members from geography, political science, history, women's studies, anthropology, philosophy, religious studies, economics, business, communications, and languages and literature.
Want to learn more about earning an International Studies degree?
262-472-1071 | intrnlstdy@uww.edu
UW-Whitewater offers the following International Studies programs:
- Bachelor of Arts — International Studies | 4-year-plan
- Bachelor of Science — International Studies | 4-year plan (created individually with faculty)
Minors:
Certificates:
In addition to UW-Whitewater’s general education requirements, as an International Studies major, you’ll take a variety of core and elective classes which will vary based on your chosen emphasis and career interests. Here are a few example classes you’re likely to take:
- Issues in International Studies
- Cultural Anthropology
- Cross Cultural Communication
- International Relations
- Economics of Globalization
- Human Geography
Since this major is highly customizable, you will also choose from dozens of courses across the curriculum, from history and world languages to business and sociology. If you’re interested in studying Middle Eastern culture, including literature and languages, religion, history, politics and foreign relations, UW-Whitewater offers a stand-alone minor in Middle Eastern Studies with an interdisciplinary approach.
To apply, you’ll complete the UW-Whitewater standard application for admission and indicate your interest in earning a degree in International Studies.
