International Studies, Minor
Requirements Accordion Open
A minor is earned in conjunction with a bachelor's degree.
To receive a minor (18 - 24 units) at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject matter areas with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. At least 12 units of the minor must be unique to that minor and not applied to any other minor.
Overview Accordion Closed
In addition to University Requirements:
- Complete individual plan requirements.
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
No more than fifty percent of the units used to satisfy minor requirements may be used to satisfy major requirements.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 18 |
| Major GPA | C |
Purpose Statement
The international affairs minor prepares students for professional success in fields related to international politics, international business, and other related fields. Students gain background and experience in the forces shaping political outcomes, and learn about the role and impact of the US in the international system. Students also gain critical writing, reading, and thinking skills. Courses include the Global Village (POS 101) --- which is designed to foster global understanding--- a wide variety of courses from within the Politics and International Affairs department, as well as courses from outside the department. This minor is interdisciplinary and will enrich a student’s education by incorporating multiple aspects from the international system, including economics, anthropology, criminal justice, and more. Many majors at Northern Arizona University can be enhanced with a background in global issues; this minor adds an international dimension to one’s education. Having a grasp of worldwide interdependence is vital for diplomatic relations, international business, and in making decisions affecting the future of the nation. By focusing on comparative and international issues, students will broaden their understanding of the world today.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Understand the history, structure, and operation of the international system and apply this to modern political systems and conflicts.
- Identify the role and impact of the US in the international system and analyze ongoing political issues in light of this information.
- Understand and apply forces shaping political outcomes such as history and culture to current events and issues.
- Demonstrate an ability to apply the discussion to policy and “real world” applications.
- Critically reflect upon the nature and consequences of diversity (e.g. race, gender, class, ethnicity, religion, culture, nation), and develop an understanding of how this diversity both alters and is altered in a world characterized by increasing global interaction.
Details Accordion Closed
Minor Requirements
Take the following 18 units with a Grade of "C" or better:
- POS 101 (3 units)
- Select from the following (6 units):
- Select three from the following (9 units):
Students may substitute one course with a semester abroad or an internship approved by a faculty advisor.
Additional Information
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.