International Studies

International Studies
Students can: Major
Degrees Offered: BA, BA/MA

International Studies is an interdisciplinary major drawing on the diverse strengths of the Johns Hopkins University in the fields of political science, history, economics, anthropology, sociology, and languages.

In today's increasingly interconnected world, new challenges and concerns deeply affect every facet of our individual and collective lives. Balancing the need for national security with the importance of protecting individual rights, encouraging the freedom of globalized markets while simultaneously promoting sustainability and preserving the environment, championing democracy throughout the world while remaining sensitive to cultural diversity—these are just some of the debates that shape our globalized society.

There is no single answer to the issues we face. This is why the key to understanding lies in a multi-disciplinary approach. The International Studies Program offers students a variety of perspectives through which to analyze international events. By learning new languages, studying the history and cultural diversity of various societies across the globe, and understanding the politics and theories of international relations or the dynamics of the world's economy, students gain the tools required to be competitive in a complex global setting.

To narrow an inevitably broad course of study, students are encouraged to identify specific areas of interest and choose a concentration within the International Studies major, whether it is a functional specialization such as international security or a regional focus. Students also have the opportunity to explore their interests in more depth through a senior thesis. The thesis, although mandatory for students wishing to graduate with honors in International Studies, is open as an option to all International Studies majors.

Study abroad is an integral part of the International Studies Program. The program has a variety of options that extend beyond the degree itself, offering a five-year BA/MA program with the School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, D.C., or Bologna; a five-year BA/MA program with Sciences Po Paris; junior year programs with SAIS Bologna and Sciences Po Paris; and a wide range of study abroad opportunities across the globe.