The international studies major reflects the reality of globalization and prepares students to address, manage and resolve contemporary foreign policy and public policy challenges, problems and issues employing an international and comparative perspective. At its heart international studies is about how people work together across national borders, balancing the global common good and their national interests. The major addresses political, social, cultural and economic issues in their global and historical context, employing a multi-disciplinary approach, emphasizing core courses in political science, history and world languages. The program requires that students choose a minor or second major in another discipline to develop an additional skill- based or knowledge-based specialization according to the student's specific career interests.