UNF: Frequently Asked Questions

What is International Studies?

International Studies is an interdisciplinary field that studies the history, cultures, languages, economies, and relationships between states in the international system, often exploring systematic changes in political systems through various lenses and incorporating information from many angles and disciplines to understand the issue, then relate it back to its contemporary significance.

What do students in this field study?

Students in International Studies study all kinds of things! As an interdisciplinary major, students are able to study concepts of religion, economics, geography, history, cultures, languages, philosophy, and politics, among others, and have the choice to focus on a particular world region or study the international system as a whole. In INS courses, students generally have the flexibility to choose research topics that match their personal interests. Additionally, International Studies majors at UNF take at least four semesters in a single language, studying through the intermediate level, and UNF offers courses in Spanish, French, and Chinese, with other languages offered occasionally as well.

Why is International Studies important?

International Studies provides students with an understanding of today's international system as a whole and allows students to gain a broad foundation by studying many disciplines within one major. International Studies students learn about the current global political system through various lenses while sharpening their skills in key areas like critical thinking, effective writing, and interpersonal communication, gaining abilities that are highly transferable to many occupational fields.

What kind of classes do International Studies students take?

International Studies students take an assortment of classes pertaining to international studies, international relations, geography and economics, religion and philosophy, history and culture, and areas of their choice within similar disciplines. Every INS student is required to take four semesters of a single foreign language, and the most common languages taken are Spanish, Chinese, and French. Students are also required to take the introductory course and seminar course for the major, in which they participate in an individual research project focused on a topic of their choice on an international scale. Additionally, INS majors are required to complete a minor or second major and will take courses in accordance with that selection.

How can experiences in International Studies transfer to the workforce?

Because International Studies covers many disciplines, students practice and apply important skills that are highly transferable into the workforce. Our students have many opportunities to practice researching, critical thinking, writing, speaking, communication, problem solving, debating respectfully, teamwork, peer collaboration, and interpersonal skills, among others. Students graduate with global perspective and a wealth of skills that are sought by employers in many fields.

What career paths can International Studies students go into?

International Studies alumni have gone into many career fields, and students are often surprised to see several of the paths alumni have taken. Our students frequently go on to government work, political campaigns, nonprofits and multinational corporations, and language teaching and translation. Many of our alumni pursue graduate studies in business, international affairs, political science, history, and focused studies in specific world regions, among others. Feel free to look through our alumni posts on Instagram (@unfintlstudies) to learn more about what our alumni have done and are doing now.

What separates International Studies from other interdisciplinary majors?

Unlike other interdisciplinary majors, International Studies requires that students choose courses that use an international lens; thus, the most common pathways require courses on the international or political economy, cultural or historical courses set in a specific, non-American region of the world, religion or philosophy courses that study foreign concepts or political thought built on concepts from various cultures and regions, and courses wherein students research international topics. Additionally, most majors require only two semesters of foreign language completion or less; however, International Studies requires four consecutive semesters studying a single foreign language through the intermediate level, providing our students with a deeper foundation in the language they choose and with the opportunity to learn more about that language and culture through those courses.

Where can International Studies students find help if they are struggling?

The university offers many avenues for students to seek assistance if they are struggling, including the Thomas G. Carpenter Library, the Writing Center, the SMART lab, Academic Advising, and the Counseling Center. Students can access free help at any of these facilities simply because they pay UNF tuition. In addition to these resources, International Studies students are welcome to contact their professors for questions pertaining to specific courses, the International Studies advisor, or the International Studies director, based on what they are struggling with and what kind of assistance or advising they need.

Who is a good fit for International Studies?

Anyone is a good fit for International Studies. While international studies will appeal most to those with multi-faceted interests, who are undecided on a major, are interested in international relations and affairs, or simply wish to study a foreign language longer while still within financial aid allowances, anyone willing to participate in college studies can find their interests in the program.