International Studies
Learn about the world around you by participating in field courses and studying abroad. Study a second language. Experience the problems of developing nations first hand. Initiate change by working within and between countries. Discover different cultures that exist within countries, states and towns. These are just a few opportunities available to you when you choose International Studies at the University of Saskatchewan.
What is International Studies?
International Studies combines a variety of disciplines, offering students a broad understanding of international events, issues and ideas while providing valuable, practical international experience and understanding.
| "I chose International Studies because I saw the opportunity to be more open and aware of different ways of thinking. The program is broad-based, giving a large range of occupational positions. After I complete my degree, I plan to return to Ecuador to work on a research project consisting of the development of an institution which is between government and multinational." | Shaun Kielo, Fourth-year, Hometown: Delisle SK |
A Stepping Stone...
A degree in International Studies allows students to pursue studies in law, business programs and developmental studies. Students go on to do graduate work in anthropology, archaeology, economics, geography, history, political studies, sociology and women's & gender studies.
Employers in business, industry, government and developmental organizations seek out International Studies graduates because of their ability to work independently in international settings.
Career Opportunities
International Studies provides training for a wide range of exciting careers, from diplomacy to development work in both domestic and international settings.
Graduates find employment in federal public service, foreign service, international law, international business, journalism or in developmental non-government agencies.
Students in the International Studies program also have the option to pursue careers specific to their area of study:
- Development Studies — may seek employment in the federal government through the Canadian International Development Agency or work for non-governmental organizations such as Oxfam, the Red Cross and the Canadian Cooperative Association.
- International Cooperation & Conflict — may work for the federal government in the foreign service through the Department of Foreign Affairs & International Trade.
- Slavic and East European Studies — may work for the Department of Foreign Affairs, CSIS, or other Canadian government agencies, as well as for non-governmental organizations that focus on projects related to countries of Eastern Europe and the former USSR.
- Latin American Studies — may pursue this option also, concentrating their careers in Latin America.
The U of S Advantage
If you choose a degree in International Studies you will be encouraged to study outside Canada for part of your degree. You may choose from three types of study abroad opportunities:
- Exchange Programs — Students have chosen to study in a number of different countries including France, Germany, Mexico and Sweden with which the University has exchange agreements.
- Independent Study Program — With University approval, you may pursue independent study programs at international universities which are not part of an official exchange program.
- Term Abroad — The Guatemala Term Abroad program, offered jointly with the University of Guelph, is the only program of its kind in Canada. Travel to Guatemala and study in a Central American environment! Your courses will be complemented by field trips to ancient ruins, rainforests, agriculture cooperatives and artesian communities.
Choose Your Program!
International Studies is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to choose courses from anthropology, economics, geography, history, languages & linguistics, law, native studies, political studies, sociology, women’s & gender studies as well as health science programs.
The program provides a broad introduction to International Studies and a strong emphasis in one of three areas:
- Development Studies — study conditions and problems in developing countries. Learn history and theory of development. Research the geographic and environmental consequences of development. You will also have the opportunity to participate in field courses and study programs held outside of Canada.
- International Cooperation & Conflict — analyze the relationship between states, focusing on impulses and avenues for international cooperation. Discover the complexity of conflict and the reasons for it. Courses are concentrated in political studies and include economics, history and sociology.
- Slavic and East European Studies — examine thematic approaches to history and study issues of importance to the region encompassing eastern Europe and the former USSR. Students have the opportunity to travel either to Russia or Ukraine and complete a full term of study there.
- Latin American Studies — examine regional and thematic approaches to Latin American history and study issues of importance to the area. Students have the opportunity to travel to Guatemala and complete a full term of study there.
A Major in International Studies
Students majoring in International Studies can choose from one of the following degrees:
- B.A. Four-year
- B.A. Honours
| "The International Studies program provides many opportunities. Students experience an interesting education, foreign study, travel and an important career. Over the years I found International Studies students to be motivated and committed. The many faculty who teach courses in the program represent a remarkable diversity of international experience." |  Alan Anderson, Professor |
Outstanding Students
- Two U of S graduates from 2001-2002 have been offered the Killam Award, the highest scholarship for graduate students at Dalhousie University.
- Many students participate in internships in locations such as Guatemala and Washington through the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Organization of American States.
Getting Involved!
Students in International Studies have the opportunity to join the International Studies Student Association, the Model United Nations Club and the local branch of the Canadian Institute of International Affairs (CIIA).
Related Interests
If you are interested in International Studies, you might also be interested in:
Relevant Links
For more information available online for International Studies:
