Academic Bulletin

College of Arts & Sciences - Undergraduate

INTERNATIONAL STUDIES - Dept. Code: INS
www.as.miami.edu/international-studies

Major | Advising Notes | Minor

The International Studies major provides a focused educational experience aimed at familiarizing students with the key structural features and dynamics of the international system and preparing them to enter the growing international job market. Processes of globalization, in part driven by global capital flows, expanding trade and the unrelenting development of communication and information technologies, have affected virtually everyone in every country, often in ways we are just beginning to understand. These developments often pose serious problems for government and other societal institutions, while also creating a demand for individuals who understand international processes. Jobs in virtually all sectors have acquired a decidedly international dimension, whether in trade, tourism, finance, public policy, government, or education. INS Graduates have moved on to the corporate world, the public sector, started their own businesses, or have continued their studies at the graduate level (i.e. Law, Business, and International Studies).

Requirements for the Major in International Studies
(30 credits)

The International Studies major consists of three components:

I. Core Requirements
II. Thematic Core
III. INS Electives

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Important Advising Notes for all International Studies Majors

1) Double Counting

Of the combined courses in the Thematic Core and the INS Electives, no more than 6 credits may count double towards a second major. A student may not count any course used to fulfill the requirements of the INS major toward a minor requirement.

2) Study Abroad

Students are strongly encouraged to study abroad for a summer, a semester, or an entire year, depending on the program. Study abroad at carefully selected institutions will complement the student’s curriculum and area of specialization, will enhance fluency in the foreign language, and will result in heightened affinity for a foreign culture. The study abroad experience need not result in credit overloads or extended time spent in the program.

3) Internship Credit

Students are encouraged to find a suitable internship during their undergraduate career. Upon approval by an advisor in the International Studies Undergraduate Program Office, 3 credits may be earned with an internship (INS 519), either toward the major or as elective credits (depending on the relevance of the particular internship to the INS major). The University’s Toppel Career Planning and Placement Center regularly advertises internships.

4) Academic Standing

Only courses in which a grade of C- or better is attained, may be counted towards the International Studies major and students must maintain a GPA of 2.75 or better in all major requirements (30 credits).

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Requirements for the Minor in International Studies (15 credits)

The International Studies Minor consists of two parts:

1. A 6-credit set of introductory courses
2. Six (6) credits in advanced courses

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