Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in International Studies
Broaden your global perspectives by studying a foreign language and taking part in an internship, study abroad program or a semester in Washington, DC.
As an international studies major, you’ll level up your global perspective and gain the skills to connect with people from all over the world in today’s diverse and fast-changing society.
International Studies Degree at a Glance
Program Type
Major
Mode of Study
On Campus
Internship
Guaranteed
Est. Time
4 Years
Start Terms
Fall, Spring
Cost
School
Accreditation
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Spring Open House
Tuesday, April 22, 2025
from 1:00 pm
to 4:00 pm
At our Spring Open House, you'll attend academic breakout sessions, connect with members of our community, and take a tour of our beautiful New England campus.
The International Studies Major
This program gives you the inside scoop on the political, social, economic and historical forces that have shaped our world today. Get the full picture of how everything came to be. You’ll dive into things like politics, economics, history and global issues and learn how you can make a difference – whether that’s through diplomacy, business or even tackling big issues like climate change and social justice.
What You'll Study
Build cross-cultural skills that’ll help you connect with people from all over the world—whether you’re traveling or working internationally in our super connected digital world. It’s about becoming a global citizen and finding your impact to leave on the world.
International Politics
World Religions
World History
Political Science Methods
Macroeconomics
International Political Economy
Intercultural Communication
History of Modern Middle East
History of Russia
Global Justice
Skills You'll Learn
By choosing to major in international studies, you’ll pick up a ton of skills that are super useful no matter what career you go into. Some of the skills you’ll learn include:
Leadership
Diplomacy
Critical Thinking
Communication Skills
Global Analysis
Research and Analysis
Concentrations Include:
Global and Regional Systems of Governance and Societies
This concentration focuses on global, international and regional history, politics, culture and religion. Students examine global politics and how states have engaged with each other through diplomacy, laws and war.
Global Economy, International Business, and Development
This international studies concentration focuses on global economic issues from international business and marketing to economic development and the causes and consequences of poverty and inequality in the world.
Global Peace, Justice, and Ethics
This concentration focuses on global justice, ethics and values as a source of meaning and direction globally and in societies. Students will be able to explore global themes of justice, peace and cooperation as well as learn about different belief and value systems.
Global Health and Environment
This concentration focuses on science that serves the global and public interest. Students will study the causes and consequences of events that affect the global community through the lens of health care, medicine, science and the environment.
International Studies Courses You'll Take
International
Politics
POL 1900
This course will assist students in developing a coherent framework for international political analysis. The course will assess the role of states, international organizations, individuals and corporations in world politics as well as examine the main theoretic approaches and debates of international relations.
World
Religions
RTS 1010
Study the world’s religious traditions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Indigenous Traditions, Christianity, Islam and Taoism. We examine origins, beliefs, practices, sacred texts as well as historical and cultural aspects. This course will pay special attention to Christianity and highlight the contributions of St. Augustine.
Political Science
Methods
POL 2000
This course considers a variety of approaches to political science research but emphasizes the behavioral and quantitative approaches that are widely utilized in the study of politics. Students will develop both research skills and learn to understand and appreciate the methodology of the discipline.
See All Courses & Options Available to International Studies Majors
International Studies Major Requirements
General Education Requirements
In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements. To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide
Why Choose the Bachelor of Arts in International Studies?
Choosing this major means that you’re looking to understand the bigger picture of how the world works and want to be part of solving global problems.
INTERDISCIPLINARY EDUCATION
Take a deep dive into global issues like politics, economics, human rights and climate change.
INTERNATIONAL UNDERSTANDING
Gain an understanding and empathetic mindset about international politics.
DIVERSE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Allow for more career-related potential across a span of different job markets.
Career Outlook: Where Can an International Studies Degree Take You?
Career Outcomes Rate
94% of the undergraduate class of 2023 in Arts & Sciences were either employed, participating in voluntary service or continuing their education within nine months of graduation.
Experiential Learning
90% of the undergraduate class of 2023 participated in at least one internship, co-op, clinical, practicum or research opportunity while at Merrimack.
Graduate School
Merrimack, New England School of Law, George Washington University and Boston College are just some of the graduate programs Arts & Sciences graduates are attending.
Jobs with an International Studies Degree
Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career in international studies and related disciplines. Positions may include:
- Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer
- International Business Consultant
- Global Marketing Manager
- Foreign Affairs Journalist
- International Trade Specialist
- Human Rights Advocate
- Foreign Language Specialist/Translator
- International Relations Consultant
- International Law Attorney
- Policy Analyst/Researcher
Where Merrimack International Studies Graduates Work & Intern
Tufts University
Graduate Student
Irish International Immigration Center
Learning Exchange Program Assistant
Queen Mary University of London
Graduate Student
WWLP Channel 22 TV
Production Assistant
American University
Graduate Student
Hill House Inc.
Program Office Assistant
European University Institute
Graduate Student
Gateway Productions
Intern
Beyond the Classroom
Student Life
You’ll have endless opportunities to find your fit, get involved and pursue what makes you happy—all while making lifelong friends (and memories!).
Explore your passions alongside others with similar interests, whether that means a cappella singing or outdoor adventuring.
- 70+ student organizations
- Division I Athletics, club and intramural sports
- Beloved traditions like Homecoming, Block Party and Spring Concert
- Fraternities and sororities
See for Yourself
Programs Related to the International Studies Major
Explore other areas and where they can take you.
Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)
At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way!
Upcoming Events
Info Session & Campus Tour
Monday-Friday & Most Saturdays
Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.
Merrimack College Awards & Recognition
U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2024)
- Most Innovative Schools (#5)
- Regional Universities North (#39)
- Best Undergraduate Teaching (#19)
- Best Colleges for Veterans (#15)
- Best Value Schools (#51)
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