International Studies Major

Technological developments over the past century have allowed scarcely imagined advances in communication, transportation, and production. Global warfare has brought to an end the age of empires, which had been a constant of the international scene since the dawn of history, but other factors such as religious beliefs, nationalism, and identity, far from disappearing as many predicted, have become increasingly influential worldwide. These events have resulted in the emergence of an international metropolis where many different groups of people inhabit a world where traditional barriers of time and distance have dramatically decreased. 

Consequently, Americans—indeed people from all countries—will need an ever-deeper understanding of the other residents of the global metropolis to maintain political stability, foster economic growth, and understand the views of those with markedly different attitudes, assumptions, and goals.

This understanding will occur in a century where change becomes a constant. In this volatile and interdependent world, students of international studies must possess a keen grasp of the relationship of political, economic, and cultural forces.

Seaver College offers a bachelor of arts degree in international studies, which is an interdisciplinary major comprised of a sequence of courses in international politics, economics, and communication. Students further specialize in either Regional Studies or Global Politics. 

The international studies major is designed for students who may enter such varied fields as diplomacy, government service, international mass media, multinational business, international religious service, and other fields requiring international understanding and expertise. It also provides a solid foundation for students wishing to pursue graduate degrees or to enter the job market for further experience and training in multicultural contexts.

The international studies program is overseen by the International Studies Council, which draws experts from across the various academic divisions at Seaver College. The primary aim of the international studies major is to:

• Provide undergraduates with the technical skills and conceptual ability to understand, appreciate, and interact profitably with communities outside American society
• Demonstrate an understanding of the ethical implications of cross-cultural and global issues, including Christian perspectives
• Prepare students for careers in international affairs with government, private sector, and not-for-profit organizations either upon graduation or through further study at graduate school

International studies majors must establish competency in two languages through the 252 level, or complete two upper-division courses in one language.

• Learn more about the requirement by visiting our academic catalog

The International Studies and Language Division strongly encourages students to study abroad through Pepperdine University's International Programs. These programs are an excellent way to gain overseas experience and make rapid progress in fulfilling the language requirement for the major.

• Learn more about Seaver's International Programs

Students are encouraged to gain practical experience in some area of international studies through internships. The Pepperdine Career Center offers local internship opportunities, and International Programs' Washington, D.C. Program also offers study and internship opportunities in the nation's capital. In addition to the federal government, a number of international organizations are based, or have major branches, in the city.

• Visit Career Services Internships
• Visit International Program's Washington DC Program