International Studies Department

BA Bachelor of Art degree in International Studies gives students the competencies that are necessary for success in cross-cultural careers, such as: US foreign service (ambassadors or consular officers), community development and foreign aid, foreign investment, or a position with a multi-national corporation. At Belhaven University, our Bachelor of Art in International Studies provides an interdisciplinary, internationally focused education in world history and geography, philosophy, biblical studies, political science, humanities, business, foreign language, and experiential study abroad. Students in this program are given practical experience in either conducting a specific research project or in a professional position within an approved private firm or public agency, and may participate in a specialized track in their chosen vocation, under the direction of the chair of the international studies department.

What will I study?

• Intercultural Communication
• Current Global Trends and Geography
• World Religions
• Linguistics and Language Acquisition Skills
• Ethnographic Research
• International Business and Political Science

What can I do with an International Studies degree?

• Address social justice issues in marginalized communities
• Communicate in culturally appropriate ways in various settings
• Teach English as a second language or international studies in higher education
• Serve with a governmental or non-profit organization

Why choose International Studies at Belhaven University?

• Semester Abroad with foreign language immersion – 15 hours of the major
• Biblical worldview infused throughout the curriculum
• The integration of faith, learning, and living both in and out of the classroom
• Mentored in a learning community comprised of peers and professors

What kind of opportunities will I have in my major that will contribute toward my career?

• Many of the courses require an experiential learning component that encourages students to interact with people from other cultures to:
  • Cultivate their appreciation for diversity and multi-cultural environments.
  • Demonstrate their cross-cultural competency skills – including problem-solving, conflict resolution, and adaptability.
  • Develop their lifelong skills of leadership, professionalism, and integrity.
• Capstone Project – The major culminates with a final paper and presentation of a student’s research that incorporates one’s future career goals and facilitates a possible pathway forward to achievement.
• With only 52 hours in the major, students are strongly encouraged to add a minor that will easily fit into the required 124 hours to graduate. Popular minors combined with an international studies major include:
  
  • Business Administration, Finance, or Marketing
  • Political Science
  • Sports Ministry
  • Sociology

What are Belhaven International Studies graduates doing now?

• Graduate school
• Working for the US State Department and FBI
• Community development
• Serving with a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO)
• Teaching English as a second language