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BA in International Studies

Dear current and prospective students,

We live in an era in which understanding the economic, political, social, cultural, and technological dimensions of international interactions is more important than ever. The best way for students to grasp vital international issues often involves them in integrating insights across these realms.

The International Studies major allows students to do just that. It complements the discipline-based requirements of a first major with the comprehensive and interdisciplinary study of international affairs.  No student may major in International Studies by itself; it must be a second major.

The major helps students to gain skills and knowledge crucial for understanding global affairs.  These include languages other than English; facility with analytic methods drawn from the social sciences and other disciplines; insights into key topics such as statecraft and power, international political economy, ethnicity and culture, and science and technology; and familiarity with the history, politics and culture of a range of countries and world regions.  International Studies majors synthesize their rich coursework by writing a senior essay, which they complete while taking the capstone course in the major, a two-semester senior seminar.

The number of students accepted into the International Studies major is limited, and admission to the major takes place during the sophomore year.  For further details on the major's requirements, please see the Program of Study link and other links on this page.

If you are already an International Studies major or are considering applying to the major, and you have questions about the major, I hope that you will contact the International Studies office and visit my office hours.  These are held on Wednesdays from 10:00AM - 12:00PM; to schedule an appointment, please contact Kathy Sulkes, Administrative Assistant for the International Affairs Council, at kathy.sulkes@yale.edu or 203.432.6253.

I hope that you will share our excitement about the International Studies major at Yale!

With best wishes,
 

Thad Dunning
Director of Undergraduate Studies
International Studies