Bachelor of Arts in International Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in International Studies provides a rigorous education in the political, economic, and socio-cultural aspects of the complex interrelationships that exist within and among nations in a rapidly changing and increasingly interdependent world. It also prepares students to be effective, globally aware decision- makers in the opening years of the 21st century. The combination of the knowledge of disciplinary fields with practical knowledge develops the foundation for careers in public and community service, diplomacy, the private and public sector, and graduate studies in the humanities and the social sciences.
In fast-developing and changing societies such as the United Arab Emirates, the people who understand the dynamic nature of the globalization of societies, their institutions, problems, and opportunities can most competently advance effective social, economic, and political developments.
Building on a foundation of faculty strength across disciplines in the social sciences and humanities (anthropology, film and literature studies, history, international relations, political science, and sociology), students in the International Studies program are offered a chance to specialize in one of three concentrations after completing at least 57 credit hours of core courses. The concentrations in International Relations, Political Economy & Development, and Middle East & Gulf Studies cater to different academic interests and career aspirations.
Concentrations in:
International Relations:
The concentration in International Relations (IR) offers students an indepth appreciation of the central issues in foreign policy, and the complex web of interactions among and between states and international organizations in a post-hegemonic and multipolar world.
Middle East/Gulf Studies:
The concentration in Middle East and the Gulf (MG) is aimed at students keen to focus on the history, cultural heritage, politics, and peoples who live in this diverse part of the world, and their attempts to respond to the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Political Economy and Development:
The concentration in Political Economy and Development (PE) adopts a comparative perspective on the drivers of development, modernization, economic sustainability, and globalization, as well as their impact on societies and the environment.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
1. Disciplinary and Interdisciplinary Knowledge:
On successful completion of the program, the student will demonstrate a solid understanding of major ideas, works, theories, and debates in the humanities and social sciences, analyze various connections across these disciplines, and apply this knowledge when explaining the relations between states and non-state actors at the local, regional and international levels.
2. Language and Communication:
On successful completion of the program, the student will demonstrate solid written, oral, and visual communication skills in English using rigorous academic standards and, when required, advanced informational technology skills to present and explain complex matters and arguments.
3. Critical Thinking:
On successful completion of the program, the student will critically assess and evaluate information to develop logical and coherent arguments, weigh the merits of alternative ideas, and develop informed conclusions within and across various fields of study.
4. Global Awareness:
On successful completion of the program, the student will exhibit an understanding of the political, economic, social and cultural trends happening in the world and will evaluate differences from an informed and responsible point of view.
5. Research Capacity:
On successful completion of the program, the student will demonstrate a strong ability to investigate, assess and use data from multiple sources, a solid proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods, and an ability to conduct highquality research projects.
6. Professional Competency:
On successful completion of the program, the student will show high ethical and professional standards when engaging with colleagues, either individually or as part of a team, and will demonstrate responsibility and a sense of self-independence and leadership.
