International Studies, BA
Pursue an International Studies major at Seattle U for a career-ready education with transformative global experiences. Prepare for careers at home and abroad.
About this Program
Multidisciplinary Education for Globally-Focused Careers
An international studies major provides you with solid academic foundations, transformative international experiences and sharp professional skills that qualify you for a variety of careers at home and abroad.
You’ll take intellectually challenging courses with expert professors dedicated to your personal, intellectual and professional growth.
Our well-rounded, multidisciplinary program covers politics, culture, history, economics and geography, where you develop a wide range of transferable, career-ready skills.
We prepare you for meaningful work in the world:
- Access to our internship program with dozens of Seattle’s internationally oriented organizations.
- Small classes in an inclusive environment, taught by faculty from a range of backgrounds and nationalities.
- Faculty advisers that help you tailor courses to your needs and future career pathways.
- Study abroad opportunities with access and support for scholarships.
- Courses in foreign languages to enhance your ability to communicate and work comfortably in multicultural or international settings.
And, of course, you’ll build lasting friendships with fellow students committed to making the broader world a better place.
Explore International Studies
What makes our program unique?
Program Designed for Your Success
Study Abroad: Adventurous Experiential Learning
The international studies major includes a learning program in a country outside of the US for a a full academic year, one or two quarters, or a short-term session. You have many countries to choose from, with professional support and guidance from faculty and our Education Abroad Office.
Internships in Seattle: Real-World Experience
The international studies major offers you personalized support to find an internship at an international organization in the Seattle area. You gain professional skills, contacts, and advice to pursue your career goals.
Senior Capstone Research Project: Deep Learning
As an international studies major, you will design and carry out your own research focused on your study abroad country. If you enroll in the international studies honors program at SU, you will have an additional quarter to develop your research, and the opportunity to present your research at an academic conference and work towards publishing your research in an academic journal.
In-Depth, Career-Ready Education
An international studies degree from Seattle U gives you career options in a range of fields.
International studies alumni often find they have the flexibility to move from one type of career to another, for example, from working in an NGO (non-governmental organization) to a private business.
Career paths for graduates are flexible, rather than fixed. At the same time, you can still prepare and think through some of the major alternatives as you build your academic profile in the international studies program.
Popular Careers for International Studies Majors
After graduation, international studies majors from SU leverage their knowledge and experience to get jobs in Seattle and beyond in global development, international business and trade, diplomatic service, law, social services, education and communications.
International studies graduates are working at the following places:
- Program coordinator, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
- Research and Impact Officer, Global Partnerships
- Assistant Director, The Brookings Institute
- Analyst, World Bank
- Foreign Service Officer, U.S. Department of State
- Policy Analyst/Program Manager, City and County of San Francisco
- Program & Communications Associate, Seattle International Foundation
Hear From Our Alumni
Melissa Ceuvas
“My interest in history, particularly my AP European History and World History classes in high school, naturally transitioned in a desire to work on global issues. I still debated between International Studies and Political Science as a major, but Seattle University’s International Studies curriculum and the opportunity to learn about different regions of the world ultimately made the decision for me. I will always credit the International Studies program with providing me the tools to succeed.”
'23
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Felipe Murtinho
Director
Associate Professor
International Studies