International Studies

Demand for globally aware graduates with knowledge of international business, cultural and area studies, and language skills continues to increase. Globalization has created a need for people with cultural understanding and international perspective in business, law, diplomacy, communications, NGO's, and other fields. The Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (B.A.I.S.) prepares students for these and other opportunities.

In addition to its academic programs, the Center offers students marketable and transferable skills through internships, service learning, and study abroad.

Peace Corps Prep

Peace Corps Prep is a certificate program for undergraduates who wish to build on the four competencies that Peace Corps looks for (training/experience in a work sector, foreign language skills, intercultural competence, and professional and leadership development). The certificate gives students a competitive edge when applying for Peace Corps service. The program is open to all majors. The program does not guarantee acceptance into the Peace Corps, but provides undergraduates with skills that are an advantage in the application process, as well as in other international development work. Being part of the program demonstrates to any future employer that participating students value global understanding and cultural awareness

Academic Advising

Majors receive advising assistance from the College of Liberal Arts Academic Advising Center, and a full-time academic program coordinator at the Center to ensure timely graduation. The Center strives to prepare students for internationally focused careers.

Graduation Requirements

All B.A.I.S. majors are required to maintain a TXST GPA of 2.75, a major GPA of 3.00, complete the Texas State general education core curriculum, the International Studies Core, and the International Studies major courses. All majors are required to complete a global academic experience, which can be fulfilled by an education abroad course or internship that entails international work, service, or group research. The Center’s director and academic program coordinator will work closely with majors to find the best options for international study. Majors are not required to complete a minor. Students must meet all course prerequisites. Please see the College of Liberal Arts, and the Degrees and Programs sections of this catalog for specific information on the general education core curriculum, and special requirements for the B.A.I.S.

B.A.I.S. majors are required to complete the special requirements in science and English Literature. The below list of approved additional science courses under that section include statistics.