Dec 05, 2025  
2025-26 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2025-26 Undergraduate Catalog

International Studies, BA


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The International Studies BA program at IUP offers students a flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum designed to deepen their understanding of global politics, economics, cultures, and institutions. Students gain the analytical, research, and communication skills needed to engage with today’s complex international challenges—skills that are highly valued across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. The program draws on courses from  several disciplines, including political science, economics, history, and geography. Students choose one of three areas of specialization: International Political Economy, which focuses on global markets, development, and economic policy; International Security Studies, which examines conflict, diplomacy, terrorism, and peacebuilding; and International Political Systems, which explores comparative government, international organizations, and political culture. Graduates are prepared for careers in international affairs, global development, business, journalism, humanitarian work, and public service, as well as for graduate or professional study. The International Studies program equips students to think critically, act ethically, and navigate an interconnected world with confidence and purpose.

Crimson Core: 40-42


As outlined in the Crimson Core Requirements  with the following specifications:

Values & Ethics: 3cr


Civic Readiness: 3cr


Global Learning: 3cr


Major: 33


Specializations:


International Political Economy: 21


International Security Studies: 21


International Political Systems: 21


Six Courses from the Following:


*(if not taken as the required specialization course)

Free Electives: 45-47


Total Degree Requirements: 120


(1) Students should have two semesters of the same language, until reaching the intermediate level.  With Spanish as an example:

SPAN 101   & SPAN 102  (if the student entered with no prior Spanish experience/did not test out of SPAN 101  1)

SPAN 102   & SPAN 201  (if the student tested into SPAN 102  /transferred in equivalent)

SPAN 201   only (if the student tested into SPAN 201  /transferred in equivalent)

No language required (if the student tested out of SPAN 201  /transferred in equivalent)

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