International Studies

The International Studies minor at McDaniel College combines courses on political inquiry and international politics with a strong foundation in political science. Prepare for a future on the global stage with an International Studies degree.

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Degree Types

Minor

Institution

Complementary Programs

Political Science

Heart

Distinctive Requirements

Courses on Political Inquiry and International Politics

Document

Special Opportunities

Become a Global Fellow or National Security Fellow

Unlocking the World: The Benefits of Pursuing an International Studies Minor

In today's increasingly globalized society, understanding international affairs is more important than ever before. McDaniel College’s International Studies minor can provide the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and excel in the interconnected global landscape.

By immersing yourself in the study of world cultures, international politics, conflict and diplomacy, and global economics with support from Political Science faculty, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how different countries interact, negotiate, and cooperate on a global scale.

International Studies Careers

In International Studies courses, you’ll develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills that are highly sought after in today's job market. Especially in fields such as diplomacy, international business, journalism, and humanitarian work.

Beyond the practical benefits, an International Studies minor will broaden your perspective on the world and foster a sense of global citizenship. So, if you're ready to unlock the world and broaden your horizons, consider pursuing an international studies minor and embark on a journey of exploration, understanding, and limitless possibilities.

Distinctive Courses for the International Studies Minor

This is an introduction to political theory through the close study and critical assessment of selected original works by leading Western political thinkers. Students will be introduced to the central concepts in political theory including justice, virtue, sovereignty, liberty, equality, state of nature, social contract, democracy, liberalism, and republicanism. We will also explore similarities and differences between the ancients and moderns, especially the relationship between nature or natural law and politics, the relationship between morality and politics, the relationship between the individual and the state, the role of religion in politics, and the equality or inequality of human beings.

An introduction to the major theories and approaches for analyzing global developments, studying the structure and organization of the international system, examining the various actors shaping world politics, exploring causes of conflicts and means for conflict resolution, and reflecting on the future of international relations and the role of individuals in the world community.

Technology is transforming the character of war. In this course, students will examine the interactions between scientific advancements in technology, warfare, and politics in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries.

International Studies Minor Program Requirements

International Studies Minor

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See Yourself Here

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Department Faculty

Learn more about the faculty and staff behind this program.

See Political Science faculty

Special Opportunities

CULTIVATING INTERCULTURAL COMPETENCE Global Fellows

McDaniel's prestigious Global Fellows Program is an academic and co-curricular opportunity. Through this opportunity, you'll deepen and broaden your understanding of global issues, develop heightened intercultural competency, and cultivate the skills and attitudes necessary to lead successful personal and professional lives in a global context. Global Fellows will help you navigate one of the most pressing challenges you'll face as a young professional: How do you succeed in a global workplace that respects the unique experiences of those you're working with?

REAL WORLD EXPERIENCE National Security Fellows Program

Cyber attacks. Pandemics. Hurricanes. Terrorism. Wildfires. Civil unrest. As threats to national security increasingly invade American lives, the need for professionals in every field with the knowledge and analytical skills to respond to these risks has never been greater. Paired with your major, McDaniel’s new National Security Fellows Program prepares you to meet this need head on, giving you an edge in a surging market of high-paying jobs in private corporations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies alike.

Model U.N., European Union, and Arab League

McDaniel's student delegations for National Model U.N. and the National Model European Union frequently earn recognition for their skillful diplomacy and negotiations at annual conferences. Students have traveled to New York City, Washington, D.C., and even China to showcase their skills in international relations.

Q&A with Political Science Professor Christianna Leahy, Ph.D.

"What I have tried to do in the past 38 years of teaching is to impart the values of participatory engagement in governance and the will to be change agents in the world (be it in their communities at home, or as citizens of the world)," says Leahy.

Read the full Q&A.

McDaniel Commitment in Action

The McDaniel Commitment—a series of opportunities guaranteed to all students—provides enhanced mentoring and coaching, and ensures every undergraduate student completes at least two meaningful experiential learning opportunities.

Students, Will and Wade, at the Cliffs of Moher.

Study Abroad

Maryland Ensemble Theatre, Gene and Alex Closeup.

Internships

Students presenting for Innovation Challenge.

Research

Photo of student Gabbie Gladden in Northern Ireland wearing a beanie hat that reads Queen's University Belfast.

Jan Term: A Doorway to Possibilities Political Science major’s Jan Term in Ireland leads to graduate school abroad

Political Science major Gabrielle Gladden knew she wanted to go abroad for graduate school, but it wasn’t until a Jan Term to Ireland and Northern Ireland that she found the right place in Queen’s University Belfast, the oldest school in Northern Ireland and the premier institution in the country.

Read "Political Science major’s Jan Term in Ireland leads to graduate school abroad"

International Business Political Science History Economics Communication

Keep in Touch

Tell us a little about yourself and we'll share updates & information. (We'll also make sure you don't miss any important deadlines.)

Keep in Touch

See Yourself Here

Take your first steps on the Hill! Visiting campus is one of the best ways to determine if McDaniel is right for you.

Visit McDaniel

Department Faculty

Learn more about the faculty and staff behind this program.

See Political Science faculty

International Studies