International Studies

International studies is one of the fastest growing academic fields in the United States. The need for Americans to know more about the world, its people, and its cultures has never been more important. At Niagara University, we take an interdisciplinary approach so that students learn about the world from different perspectives. Students work closely with faculty to develop a research plan — a question that the student will attempt to answer using evidence that they collect and analyze — that meets their individual needs and interests. They create a digital portfolio that demonstrates their ability to translate concepts and theories into real-world applications and to function effectively in business, governmental, and foreign academic or social environments. Students learn to think critically about global issues and to integrate emerging technologies into research and communication. Through the program, students develop an awareness of the future and prepare themselves to contribute to the international marketplace of ideas.

The emphasis of the program is on flexibility and individualized attention. Students select a field of concentration that they are interested in investigating. They work closely with faculty to identify sources of information that will answer their question and coursework that will assist them in analyzing evidence. Using these tools, they will learn to solve international problems. Students develop their own unique sequence of courses and research plans, and they conduct these in close consultation with faculty advisors. They work with a community of students in a small-classroom environment where the emphasis is on enhancing critical thinking skills and practical applications. International Studies majors are evaluated in terms of integrative problem solving, information literacy, and their awareness of global issues.

Students are required to engage in an international internship or to study abroad. Faculty offer short-term study abroad options for students with inflexible schedules. For example, this year we are offering an intensive week-long European Union study in Germany. To learn more about study abroad options at Niagara University, go to Niagara University's Study Abroad Program website.