International Affairs is an interdisciplinary major drawing from courses in political science, economics, history, geography and foreign languages. At Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia, our students study the sources of conflict and cooperation in the global system, including war, trade, terrorism, migration, development, diplomacy, energy, democratization and international governance. A degree in International Affairs prepares you for a variety of careers in a contemporary, globalized world.
Globalization is making the world more connected politically, economically and culturally. News and events on one side of the world can radically affect the daily lives of people thousands of miles away. The next generation of leaders in both the public and private sectors need a solid understanding of these forces at work to navigate successfully in this rapidly-changing environment, regardless of their ultimate career field.
Thanks to the interdisciplinary nature of the International Affairs program at Marshall University, our students gain a broad understanding of global issues through a variety of disciplinary lenses and have the freedom to concentrate in depth in a particular area of interest.
Upon graduation, many of our students continue their education in law school or by entering a master’s degree or Ph.D. program. We also offer a minor in International Affairs.
We provide you a number of hands-on learning opportunities, including, but not limited to:
- Annual and affordable summer study abroad opportunities led by our expert faculty, utilizing a place-as-text pedagogy; and
- Week or semester-long internshipswith the West Virginia State Legislature focusing on topics of international importance.
International Affairs majors are encouraged to become members and leaders in student organizations, such as the national political science honorary fraternity Pi Sigma Alpha, which offers leadership opportunities, sponsorship of visiting speakers, the Department of Political Science’s Paul D. Stewart Distinguished Lectureship Series and a potential pay upgrade for members who go on to work for the U.S. Government.
Another student organization, Phi Alpha Delta, is a national, pre-law, co-ed fraternity aimed at helping you form strong bonds that unite students and teachers of the law.
- Foreign Service or U.S. Federal Gov Agency
- State Government - International Commerce
- United Nations or Word Bank
- Non-Governmental Organizations
- International Business
- Translation
- Find out which of our academic programs is right for you.
- Meet some of our current students and hear about their favorite Marshall moments.
- Receive invitations to special events for future students.
- Get help with the application and enrollment process.