As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and interdependent, it is more important than ever before to understand the serious issues of globalization.

There is an urgent need for a new generation of citizens who are prepared to live in a global society facing significant problems, including global warming, nuclear proliferation, AIDS, and terrorism. RIT’s International Studies Program prepares graduates for careers that demand anunderstanding of the social, economic, and environmental issues that surround global issues,and how they play out in different regions ofthe world.

Interdisciplinary by design

RIT’s International Studies Program focuses on interdisciplinary approaches to the challenges of global problems. You’ll learn about a wide range of issues through a core curriculum that includes courses in international studies, transnationalism in a post-colonial world, international relations, diplomatic history, international trade and finance, and cultural change in the international arena. Three years of foreign language study enable you to develop the critical communication skills necessary for success in your career. Graduates are well prepared for policy analysis and international affairs positions in government and the private sector.

A choice of specializations

RIT’s International Studies Program offers a choice of specializations (four required courses plus five electives) focusing on a specific international region or function. The three regional fields cover East Asia, Latin America, and Europe.The two functional fields cover international business,or science, technology, and society. Your chosen specialization allows you to gain depth in an area and develop the expertise your career requires.

Built-in international experience

The key features of our International Studies Program include a built-in international experience tailored to your interests. You might participate in a study abroad program in a region of the world that intrigues you. Cooperative education (co-op) or internship experiences in foreign countries are also possibilities. If you prefer to stay in the United States, you can seek a co-op position with a government agency or in the international division of a U.S.corporation with foreign operations.Whatever international experience you choose will greatly enhance your employment prospects after graduation.

Complement your degree with a minor

RIT’s International Studies Program will provide you with a body of knowledge that spans disciplines to give you an understanding of the interconnection within and among the complex systems that constitute international studies. Because courses outside your major can contribute to your career success, you might want to consider the minors available in RIT’s College of Liberal Arts, College of Business, and College of Science. Minors are available in a range of areas, including accounting, American politics, communication, environmental studies, history, international relations, management, marketing, public policy, sociology/anthropology, statistics, and more. The five-course, structured minor will appear on your transcript, and employers will know you have something extra to offer.

Choose cooperative education or internships

One of the best reasons to study international studies at RIT is the opportunity to get professional work experience through cooperative education (co-op) or internships. Students on co-op typically are paid for their work , while students on internships may or may not receive a salary. Co-ops or internships may be taken any quarter after your sophomore year, including summers, and RIT international studies students have the pick of some exciting opportunities in the United States and abroad .Your studies take on new meaning when you're working in a position researching the implications of foreign policy for a government agency or analyzing international business conditions for a multinational corporation. You will participate in one co-op or internship experience to fulfill the requirements for this program. Co-ops and internships are great ways to put relevant work experience on your resumé to set yourself apart from other graduates in the job market .

For more information on the International Studies Program, click here.