High Point University Undergraduate Bulletin 2013-2014

Page 196

At High Point University, every student receives an extraordinary education in an inspiring environment with caring people.SM 196

Interdisciplinary Programs Liberal education seeks to instill in students the ability to draw connections among diverse areas of knowledge and to translate these connections into practical solutions to a wide range of social, political, and practical problems. At High Point University, one of the ways we deliver on this liberal ideal is by offering innovative and exciting interdisciplinary courses of study that compel students to think in new ways about themselves and the world they inhabit. Currently, students can pursue an interdisciplinary major in International Relations and concentrated study in three interdisciplinary areas: Environmental Studies, Latin American Studies, and Women’s and Gender Studies.

International Relations Major This interdisciplinary major prepares students for professional careers and programs of graduate study that require a deep and nuanced understanding of the cultural, economic and political forces that shape relations among societies, nations and regions. The program combines the resources and unique perspectives of four distinct disciplines — economics,

foreign languages, history and political science. Required coursework provides majors with a strong foundation in a foreign language, quantitative reasoning and the application of diverse methodologies and perspectives. Students choose from a broad range of electives to develop one or more areas of substantive or regional expertise that reflect their primary areas of interest and their expected career path. Majors are encouraged to complement their coursework with practical learning experiences outside of the traditional classroom. Thus, a portion of the degree requirements can be fulfilled by conducting original research, studying abroad or completing internships with international organizations, institutions or agencies. The major provides a strong academic foundation for students who desire to pursue graduate-level studies in law, business, foreign relations, international security, international development, economics, history or political science. Student Learning Outcomes Upon completing the International Relations Program at High Point University, students will: 1. be able to make and analyze complex arguments. 2. possess at least enough fluency (in the areas of reading, hearing, and speaking, but not necessarily writing) in another language to be able to explore and understand public discourse in the native language of a foreign society. 3. be able to apply a range of major concepts, theories, and research techniques used in the contemporary study of international relations. 4. be broadly trained to understand important international issues from the perspective of several distinct disciplines. 5. leave college adequately prepared for professional employment or admissions to graduate/professional school in a field related to their major. Degree Requirements To graduate from High Point University with the B.A. degree in International Relations, students must complete the following: B.A. in International Relations

Major Requirements............................. 40 – 48 credits University Core Requirements............... 50 credits Electives............................................... 30 – 38 credits TOTAL.......................................... 128 credits


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