International Studies

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International Studies Overview

Chatham’s international studies major emphasizes cultural texts and histories in combination with practical experience and firsthand intercultural interaction. Core courses allow students to develop nuanced understandings of topics and problems within a broad and relevant historical, political, and cultural context. Specializing in a region (Africa, East Asia, Europe, Latin America, or the Middle East) provides grounding in language; historical and geographical understanding; and experiential learning; and allows students to take advantage of additional funding available for studying abroad.
Degrees Offered
  • BA
Program School

Most problems do not stop at national borders, and most remedies do not apply to one country only: Learning how to think transnationally is the key to success in the 21st century. In an era of increasing interdependence, international studies is a gateway and foundation for personal growth and career achievement.

— KAREN KINGSBURY, Ph.D., professor of international studies

Professional photo of Maria Taylor smiling on Shadyside Campus

Alumna Profile: Maria Taylor ‘18

In her third year at Chatham, Maria Taylor was named a Newman Civic Fellow.

Explore the International Studies Degree:

In addition to specific field-based knowledge, students will gain skills in analysis, communication, and problem-solving. And since our goal is to provide students with the knowledge and experience they need to find employment and rise to leadership in their field, they'll be encouraged to explore careers through an active internship program and to play leadership roles within the campus community.

Introduction to Modern Europe

The impact of World War I on Europe, the crisis of democracy and rise of totalitarian ideologies in the interwar period, and the decline of European influence in the world after World War II provide the focal points of the course. It then explores the slow resurgence of Europe, prospects for European unity, and revived European influence in international relations as a “third force.”

Africa Past and Present

This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the problems and promises of African development. It investigates the historical development of pre-independence society, culture, political institutions, and economic structures, and their interaction with post-independent economic problems and development strategies.

Asian Migrations: Local and Global Narratives

This course studies the diasporic waves arising in Vietnam, Nepal, India, China, Japan, Korea, etc., and flowing to the U.S. (especially Western Pennsylvania) and elsewhere. Graphic novels, lyric tales, gender and class, emigrant-immigrant and rural-urban transitions, viewed from cultural studies and historical perspectives. Assignments include analyses, an interview, and a communication project.

View Course Catalog

Our Faculty

If one word could best sum up Chatham's faculty, it would be engaged. Professors bring experiences to relate the course lessons to real-world situations.

Full Faculty
Photo of Jean-Jaques Sene
Associate professor of History; Cultural Studies; Conflict Studies
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Global Focus Program

Chatham’s award-winning Global Focus program engages our students in the critical and holistic exploration of one specific country or region of the globe every year. The program reinforces cross-cultural ties and internationalization initiatives in the Greater Pittsburgh area and beyond. Featured countries have included Indonesia, Canada, Southern Africa, Germany, Brazil, Chile, Vietnam, and more.

Explore Global Focus Program : Checkerboard 1 - Global Focus Program
Photo of Chatham University students sitting in wooden cubicles, studying between stacks of books in Jennie Mellon King Library.

Preparing for Law School

Chatham's pre-law program is designed to encourage and support students with an interest in careers in law. It also helps students prepare to attend law school. The program includes the pre-law advisor, a pre-law minor, co-curricular programs offered in partnership with the Pennsylvania Center for Women and Politics, as well as the support of an advisory committee.

Photo of flags of different nations flying in front of the United Nations building.

International Certificate Program

Students can enhance their degree with a certificate in international studies in one of five major global regions: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. The certificate includes a language requirement, history and culture courses, and an international field experience. Certificate students are eligible for additional study abroad funding.

Do you have questions?

We make it easy to get in touch:

Call Us

800-837-1290

Text Us

412-419-3772 (standard text/SMS rates will apply)

Email Us

undergraduate@chatham.edu

Request Information

Complete our Request for Information form

Or, answer a few questions and we will be glad to help.

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