Thinking about and declaring a major in International Studies?

Look over the requirements of the four options for the IS major and think about which option is most interesting to you.

What language do you wish to pursue? Do you want to begin a second and/or third language or continue with a language you started in highschool. (See list of languages taught at UW-Madison)

Please make an appointment with the Advisor to discuss the major. Although you can find most of the information regarding requirements on this website, additional information particular to your situation, may be useful to have earlier rather than later. If you are unsure about which option to choose, do not hesitate to discuss the pros and cons of each option with the advisor.

Once you have completed the basic course work you can officially declare the major. The advisor has Declaration forms for you to complete and sign.

When should I take the basic level courses?

You may begin to take the basic courses right away. These courses provide the foundation for greater understanding of the upper-level work, enabling you to take the upper-level courses with more confidence. They will also help you to confirm whether or not you wish to do a major in International Studies.

How many credits does IS require?

A minimum of 36 credits is required for the major in addition to the basic course work and language classes. A fifth semester college course in a foreign language is required but language courses do not count as credits in the major. (Students are not required to take the fifth semester of a foreign language if English is their second language.)

How do I know what courses to take?

Information regarding preparatory basic coursework, and required core courses andissues/elective courses for each Option can be found on on the IS Options page or handouts in the International Studies Office.

Can I take courses for the major that aren't listed as part of the major?

You may come across a course with international content which is not listed on the Option detail sheets. If you think a particular course might be relevant to the International Studies major, you may bring a copy of the syllabus and consult with the advisor. The content of "topics" courses (ie Poli Sci 401) and seminars offered in many departments may have relevant topics in any given semester. Check these with the advisor. However, keep in mind not all courses you take whether internationally related or not, will count in the major.

Why aren't listed courses offered?

International Studies is an Interdisciplinary Program which draws its required and elective courses from various departments on campus. Though most "required" courses are offered on a regular basis, there is no guarantee that all the listed courses will be offered each semester. Many elective courses are offered only when departments have the resources available. If there are courses in which you are particularly interested, we suggest you contact the department that teaches the course to inquire as to when or how often they expect the course to be taught.

What if a required course is not offered?

Careful planning and monitoring of class offering will, in most cases, mean that you will not have a problem in meeting the requirements of the major. However, for some IS majors, particularly those who plan to study abroad, meeting stated requirements might be difficult because required courses may not be offered when needed. In this instance you should talk with the advisor to discuss the various options available, such as substituting another course.

Is study abroad required?

Students are encouraged to study abroad but it is not a requirement. Proper planning will ensure courses taken abroad will count towards your college and major requirements. Study abroad programs come in different shapes (e.g., language learning, liberal arts/cultural learning, home stay, dorm stay etc.) and sizes (winter break, summer, semester, academic year). What better way to experience your international studies major than to study the politics, history, art and culture of another country on site?

For detailed information on this major and studying abroad, see our study abroad webpage.

Should I double major?

Whether or not to double major is a personal decision you should seriously consider before either declaring another major or dismissing the idea. If you find it intellectually desirable to pursue two majors, do so. While some students believe that double or triple majoring will dramatically improve their employment opportunities or provide other benefits for the employment market, this is not necessarily the case. You should not double major unless you are confident that you can do well in both majors. A spotty record with two majors will not impress in the same way as a solid academic record with one major. You can supplement your major with extra-curricular activities such as: participating in performance groups; writing for one of the campus newspapers; leadership positions in student clubs; tutoring; volunteer activities or work experience.

Many IS majors choose to double major and/or pursue a certificate in a specialized area of knowledge. Ideally the choice of an appropriate additional major or certificate should be based on more than just the convenience or the way it overlaps with the IS major. As you are reviewing your options, keep in mind your career goals and ask yourself if the major you are considering will be a useful addition in terms of knowledge and/or skills. For example Option II-Global Economy combined with a double major with Economics has some course overlap and is complimentary in knowledge and skills. A Certificate in Global Cultures would be complimentary to IS Options I, II and IV. A certificate in Environmental Studies would be complimentary to Options I, II, and III. There are many combinations of double majors and certificates. Other possible double majors or certificates are listed below:

MAJORS & CERTIFICATES

What kind of job can I get with an IS major?

International Studies is a liberal arts major. Consequently it is not intended to lead to a specific career or occupation. It does, however, provide an integrated program of courses which lays the foundation for professional training in a wide variety of areas. What you decide to do with the major is entirely up to you and will be, in part, a function of what other experience you accumulate and interests you develop during your undergraduate career. The IS major is a tool you can use to define your career goals. In many cases, graduate or professional training may be required to achieve your long-term career goals. The International Studies Program has recently completed a survey of graduates of the International Relations major click here to see what our alums are doing.