Major Specializations

As an International Studies major, you will choose a subject-area specialization that aligns with your interests and career goals. With 14 major specializations to choose from, you can explore global issues, regional studies, and critical fields that shape the world today. Each specialization equips you with the knowledge and analytical skills needed to engage with international challenges, preparing you for careers in diplomacy, security, business, and beyond. Your choice of specialization will help shape your perspective on global interactions and open doors to exciting opportunities around the world. 

We currently offer the following specializations:

• African Studies
• Development Studies
• East Asian Studies
• Globalization Studies
• Human Rights
• Information Security
• International Conflict & Peace
• International Relations and Diplomacy
• Latin American Studies
• Middle East Studies
• Security and Intelligence
• Slavic and East European Studies
• Western European Studies
• World Business and Economy

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science?

With an International Studies major, you can choose to pursue either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS). All specializations have the option for a BA and BS, and there are quite a few similarities between the two. However, the BS requires a 3-course Data Analysis series, while the BA requires only one Data Analysis course. To learn more about degree requirements and required courses, visit our major pages.

Foreign Language Requirement

All International Studies majors must be proficient in a language other than English. Proficiency can be demonstrated in many ways, but we define it as credit for one language series: 1101, 1102, 1103, and 2000 (one level above 1103) or their equivalents. Given each student’s language experience, this requirement can be met in many ways:

• Language placement test  
  • If you test out of 1101, you need to take 3 more semesters: 1102, 1103, 2000
  • If you test out of 1102, you need to take 2 more semesters: 1103 and 2000
  • If you test out of 1103, you need to take 1 more semester: 2000
  • If you test out of 2000, then your language requirement is met and you not required to take any additional language courses to meet your International Studies degree requirements
• Validation
• Transfer to Ohio State: AP rest results, CCP credit, other credits

Notes

• American Sign Language is accepted (full series: 1101, 1102, 1103, and 2000)
• Latin is not accepted. You must choose a language of currently in use internationally.
• If you want to start a language from the beginning, please email your advisor with the language name, course level & course 4-6 digit number, time/date etc. Ensure you keep that blocked on your schedule.

Exceptions

International or US high school graduates who are non-native speakers of English must:

• have an international English language test on file (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Duolingo English Test, Cambridge English Qualifications, CELPIP, etc) or provide Ohio State Admissions with a result if not already listed in your record 
  OR
• contact the Center for Languages, Literatures and Cultures and discuss Validation for your particular language

US high school graduates with proficiency in a foreign language must provide verification from the Center for Languages, Literatures and Cultures indicating that you meet the International Studies major proficiency requirement:

• African languages: contact Dr. Salome Fouts and say that you are an International Studies major who needs credit/test for the 2000 level
• Chinese, Japanese, and Korean: contact the Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures
• All other languages, including those not taught at Ohio State: contact the Center for Languages, Literatures and Cultures