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International Studies Department

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The International Studies Department expands students’ global awareness as they seek to create a more peaceful world.

Majors prepare themselves for challenges in an increasingly complex 21st century through in-depth interdisciplinary study of their chosen region. Students also learn a foreign language, study abroad for a semester and grow to appreciate the many ways humankind organizes itself.

Broad knowledge of global affairs as well as expertise in Europe, Latin America, East Asia, or Africa are hallmarks of the program. The major pairs well with a second major in Political Science, Foreign Language, or History, for example, making each student’s experience and knowledge unique. Double majoring and having an adviser for each major is a requirement.

The International Studies major prepares students for employment in business, journalism, government, non-governmental organizations and more.


College Catalog

For more information about courses for the International Studies Department, visit the online, searchable College Catalog. The Undergraduate Catalog also includes academic department and major information, academic regulations and resources, admission standards and requirements, and tuition, fees, and financial aid information.

Tracks and Minors

"Guilford’s interdisciplinary major allowed me to explore many areas of interest including history, politics, art, and philosophy."

Ryan Sanders '12
International Studies and German Double Major
  • International Studies Major: International Studies is an interdisciplinary, standalone major that create a unique experience and knowledge base for each student. It offers four specialty tracks: Asian Studies, European Studies, Latin American Studies, and International Affairs.
  • East Asian Studies Track and Minor: A bachelor of arts in International Studies with a focus in East Asian Studies requires 32 semester hours, including a semester abroad. The degree requires a second major from another discipline. The minor is 16 semester hours and helps students appreciate the achievements of societies with different values and behavioral patterns.
  • European Studies Track: A bachelor of arts in International Studies with a focus in European Studies requires 32 semester hours, including a semester abroad. The degree requires a second major from another discipline.
  • Latin American Studies Track and Minor: A bachelor of arts International Studies with a focus in Latin American Studies requires 32 semester hours, including a semester abroad. The degree requires a second major from another discipline. The minor is 16 semester hours and helps students appreciate the achievements of societies with different values and behavioral patterns.

International Studies Department News and Events

Triple the Talent
Triple the Talent

Megan Barolet-Fogarty ’04 has a love for diverse cultures and helping immigrant families thrive. Find out how Guilford propelled her into rewarding academic and nonprofit careers.

Freedom Fellow
Freedom Fellow

Criminal Justice and International Studies double major Nema Kodio ’22 is one of only 30 people selected worldwide for the Freedom Builders Fellowship.

Journeying Through Japan
Journeying Through Japan

Chelsea Sosa ’21 spent her spring semester on her dream trip, taking in the sites, building friendships, and absorbing Japan’s vibrant culture.

Language Lover
Language Lover

Khaira Bolden ’21 double-majored in International Studies and Modern Language Studies at Guilford. She wanted to connect with people around her who speak different languages.

International Peacebuilder
International Peacebuilder

Chris Collins ’19, an Environmental Policy and East Asian Studies double major, is working in research for the U.S. Institute for Peace and studying for a master’s degree in international development at The George Washington University.

Citizen of the World
Citizen of the World

Noely Bernier ’23, an Honors Scholar and Political Science and International Affairs double major from Haiti, talks about what drew her to study policymaking at Guilford.

Contact Us

Zhihong Chen
Zhihong Chen

Associate Professor for History

Tim Kircher
Tim Kircher

H Curt/Pat S Hege Professor of History

Eric Mortensen
Eric Mortensen

John A. Von Weissenfluh Professor of Religious Studies

Ken Gilmore
Ken Gilmore

Professor for Political Science