International Studies, Minor

Overview

In addition to University Requirements:

• Complete individual plan requirements.

Please note that you may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.

No more than 50% of the units used to satisfy minor requirements may be used to satisfy major requirements.

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.  Classes 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 classes 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.