Requirements for Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Studies
This degree program will prepare BSC’s graduates with transnational competence for enrollment into graduate degree programs in international studies/affairs and/or entry level employment in international affairs, public (foreign) policy, management of social services delivery in worldwide contexts, intelligence and homeland security services, and professional careers in public schools.
Beyond the general studies requirements consisting of 39 credit hours, students in the International Studies program must complete 36 hours of International Studies core courses, 45 hours of International Studies specialization, which include compulsory one-to-two semesters of career-related internships and/or country-specific related study abroad. The capstone course, Projects in International Studies, is part of the International Studies core and is taken during the senior year.
The International Studies major must complete a total of 120 credit hours and earn a 2.0 quality point average on all work applied to the general studies requirements, the International Studies core, including the capstone course, International Studies specialization, and the internship/study abroad.
A minor in International Studies is available to all majors.
This degree program meets Bluefield State College’s Institutional Student Learning Outcomes:
ILO1. Students will communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
ILO2. Students will select appropriate resources, prioritize information in terms of relevance and
reliability, question and evaluate the complexity of the information environment, and use information
in an ethical manner.
ILO3. Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to use appropriate technology for
communicating, solving problems, and decision making.
ILO4. Students will use mathematical problem-solving skills to investigate, model, and solve real-
world problems at an appropriate level.
ILO5. Students will analyze and compare diverse social and cultural patterns, texts, and performances and will evaluate them from a global perspective.
ILO6. Students will understand and apply scientific concepts and develop science inquiry and research
skills.
ILO7. Students will interpret, analyze, and construct ethical arguments.
ILO8. Students will be able to apply skills necessary to maintain physical and mental wellness.
This degree program manifests the following Programmatic Learning Outcomes:
Critical thinking
P-1. Use analytical intellectual tools to examine global issues in the subject areas
P-2. Critically analyze the complex interrelationships that exist among nations and between peoples and communities in the interdependent modern world.
P-3. Employ methods of interdisciplinary social science research: use library databases to find relevant literature, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of academic arguments, and use evidence to support arguments.
P-4. Adapt and apply a critical and well-grounded understanding of multiple worldviews, experiences, power structures, and ethical and cultural positions in relation to contemporary global problems.
Content knowledge
P-5. Describe, explain and apply basic knowledge of the historic and contemporary role and effects of different international actors in the global system (e.g., multilateral and bilateral organizations, development agencies, nation-states, philanthropic and non-governmental organization).
P-6. Describe and discuss the history, culture, society, geography, and political economy of a major world region.
P-7. Describe, explain and apply basic knowledge of a professional concentration area that maps onto a real-world career objective.
Communication
P.8.Demonstrate receptive and productive proficiency in at least one language other than English.
P-9. Convey complex information and ideas in English that is clear, robust, carefully edited, well organized, and stylistically engaging and accessible.
P.10. Interact with people from a diverse range of cultural, religious, ethnic, national, and other identities in a way that is respectful and informed.
P.11. Use knowledge and skills to develop and advocate for informed, appropriate action to solve complex problems in the human and natural worlds.
Note: Foreign language study is a requirement of all International Studies majors.
INST 491 Study Abroad and INST 493 International Internship may be engaged in during the summer but will be scheduled in the fall/spring semesters.
Note: Study Abroad, which might include the study of a foreign language and other relevant courses, might be done during the summer at one of BSC’s partner institutions. The Transfer of Credits form must be completed prior to departure by faculty advisors and applicable Deans.