International Studies Major

The Composite Major in International Studies is designed for the student intending to enter a profession in which an international focus will be particularly valuable. This major can serve as preparation for careers in fields such as business, economics, government/non-government organizations (NGO), law, history, sociology and the arts.

In addition to the normal sequence of courses taken to satisfy the general education requirements of Hope College, the International Studies major consists of 36 credit hours, the successful study of a modern foreign language through the second year and participation in a semester or year long international off-campus study program.

The 36 credit hours required for the major are met by 20 major core credits, and 16 elective credits:

Major Core Courses (20 credits)

Elective Courses (16 credits)

Elective credits must have an international or global theme and will be selected in consultation with the director of the major. In addition, 12 of these credits should be in courses numbered 300 or higher. These courses are usually from the following disciplines: art history, economics, history, modern languages (culture or literature courses), philosophy, political science, religion and sociology. It is strongly recommended that three of these courses be regionally specific either to Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America or the Middle East.

Foreign Language Requirement

A modern language must be successfully completed at least through the second-year level (4th semester) or by demonstrated equivalency. Further study beyond the second year is highly encouraged. See the Dept of Modern and Classical Languages for available language options.

Off-campus Study Requirement

It is required students participate in an international, off-campus program for at least a semester, but preferably for a full year. Credits earned in such programs for parallel courses may be substituted for requirement or elective courses at the discretion of the major’s advisor. For more information on study abroad, please check under “Special Academic Programs” in the college catalog or click here.

Students considering the International Studies major should consult with Jon Huisken, Registrar and Dean of Academic Services. He can he reached at (616) 395-7760 (x7760 on campus) or by email at huisken@hope.edu.