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International Studies Minor

Minor in International Studies Program

Gain a global perspective and make a difference in an increasingly interconnected world. The University of Central Missouri’s International Studies minor complements most bachelor’s degrees and provides you with the knowledge and skills to make an impact in our global economy.

Choose one of our three concentrations to learn more about global society and culture; human rights, peace and security; or, international development, trade and diplomacy. Just like majors within UCM’s International Studies program, undergraduate students in our International Studies minor can select courses focusing on a geographic area of interest and are encouraged to learn a new language and study abroad.

An International Studies minor may also be referred to as a global studies minor. Regardless of the name, this minor is particularly beneficial for those pursuing careers in education, international business, communications and political science — or anyone interested in learning more about global affairs. An understanding of international relations and geography, as well as the accompanying social and cultural diversity issues associated with any domestic or world event, gives you a leg up on graduates without keen insights gained from an International Studies program.

In-person and online options for International or global studies minors

Just like students in our bachelor’s in International Studies program, you can take classes for the International Studies minor on campus and online. Get one step closer to your dream career by taking courses in a way that works for you.

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3 concentrations to choose from

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Learn a foreign language

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What you will study

You might be wondering, “What is International Studies?” UCM’s undergraduate program is flexible and complements any major to prepare you for careers around the globe. Many students pair the International Studies minor with majors such as Political Science, Criminal Justice and Criminology, Anthropology, Communication Studies and Cybersecurity. Whichever career path you choose to pursue, the International Studies minor will allow you to recognize and make important connections between various social, political and economic factors that affect, and are affected by, global events.   

Coursework in the International Studies minor begins with an introductory survey course. From there, you’ll take courses offered at UCM or a university abroad that complement your major. Choose courses from the following categories to complete the International Studies minor:

  • Content specializations: global society and culture; human rights, peace, and justice; or international development, trade and diplomacy.
  • Select two courses with a range of geographic specializations: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America or the Middle East.
  • Consider taking a foreign language: Spanish, German, French or Chinese.
  • Take advantage of study abroad courses: International Studies students may study abroad for a semester, a summer or a shorter, 2–3 week study tour. All
    courses taken abroad count towards the minor.

 

Unique learning opportunities in international studies

Our International Studies minor offers students the opportunity to take classes that address the multi-faceted aspects of the global issues facing the world today. This could include climate change, the need for sustainable development strategies, immigration and refugees as well as the protection of indigenous and human rights. Hands-on, real-world learning opportunities include: 

  • Study abroad: UCM International Studies minors may choose to study for a semester or more at a university in Spain, Germany or Japan — among many other international destinations. Shorter study tours allow students to visit and explore cities in Jordan and Israel, Cuba, Peru and Spain and Tanzania. Immerse yourself in a new culture and take courses that count toward your minor. Unlike many schools, UCM offers financial support for students studying abroad to help pay for some of your travel expenses. 
  • International student interactions: UCM hosts students studying abroad from countries around the world. International Studies students may participate in the English Cafe events organized by the Center for Global Education, where they meet and talk to students from India, Japan, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia and Sweden, to name just a few.
  • Small classes: UCM International Studies classes generally don’t exceed 25 students. This allows you to get to know your classmates and faculty members and build important social and professional networks.

 

What can you do with an International Studies minor from UCM?

Are you interested in world events and global issues? Would you like to live and work abroad? By taking international studies classes and pursuing an International Studies minor, you’ll have the opportunity to explore career options in international education, civil service and government and the nonprofit sector.

Discover possible careers in international studies 

How does international studies fit with your career aspirations? Explore more about career options and salary expectations using the interactive tool below.

 

 
 


 

Financial assistance options for our International Studies program

UCM students have several ways to finance their college education. In addition to university scholarships, International Studies majors and minors may qualify to apply for the following funding opportunities: 

  • Center for Global Education Study Abroad Grant
  • Global Vision Study Abroad Scholarship
  • Political Science and International Students Scholarship
  • Sawyer-Stevenson Scholarship

You can learn more about program-specific scholarships with the UCM Scholarship Finder.

 

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Explore programs related to international studies.

 

Check out a few similar minors that can be paired with a UCM bachelor’s degree:

 

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