International Studies Major

Technological developments over the past century have allowed scarcely imagined advances in communication, transportation, and production. Economic interdependence, migration flows, urbanization, climate change, and pandemics have made the world a smaller place. These developments remind us that solutions to contemporary global challenges will require collaboration and cooperation across physical and cultural borders. However, social identities such as religion, nationality, ethnicity, and race, far from disappearing, remain influential in structuring political and economic life.

We live in a century where change has become a constant. In this volatile, diverse and interdependent world, a renewed understanding of ourselves as global citizens is critical for fostering political stability, promoting economic growth, pursuing social justice, and understanding the cultural perspectives of those with markedly different attitudes, assumptions, and goals. Students of international studies will leave the major with a keen grasp of the interrelated political, economic, and cultural forces that shape our world, equipping them to make positive change both locally and globally.

Seaver College offers a bachelor of arts degree in international studies, which is an interdisciplinary major that merges language skills with substantive training in international political economy and intercultural studies with an opportunity to gain regional expertise. Students further specialize in either Regional Studies or Global Politics. 

The international studies major is designed for students who may enter such fields such as diplomacy, government service, multinational organizations, NGOs, and international religious and humanitarian service. It also provides a solid foundation for students wishing to pursue graduate degrees or engage in post-graduate 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 productively 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