Program Highlights

The minor in international studies is filled with rich and exciting experiences. It provides students with a wide range of opportunities to:

• gain skills in diplomacy, communication, negotiation and conflict resolution
• participate in the Harvard National Model United Nations Conferences
• acquire social skills and cultural sensitivity through interaction with other people and cultures
• pursue individual, interdisciplinary tracks or areas of interest, within the parameters outlined in the program curriculum
  

For example, by participating in the Harvard National Model United Nations conferences, students engage in seeking creative problem-solving ways to resolve the enduring problems we face in our world today, and they learn to become members of an epistemic community of people with knowledge, leadership skills and desire to act in bringing about a more just and compassionate world. 

A Growing Program

As a relatively new program (2013), the minor in international studies has recorded many promising signs. The newly revised program approved by the faculty in spring 2020 allows students across disciplines to leverage their degree by taking advantage of a more flexible minor to further their career and academic goals. The program’s flexibility enables students to complete the program successfully without the unnecessary programmatic barriers and high-costs associated with most programs in the field of international studies.

Successful Alumni and Students

Merykokeb Belay ’17: biology-chemistry and international studies alumni with master’s in public health
Susuyu Lassa ’19: political science and international studies alumni, seeking admission into graduate school of international relations
Kwaku Archer ’20: pre-med and international studies alumni, graduated summa cum laude, seeking admission into medical school
Christopher Carroll ’22: current political science and international studies student interested in doing master’s and Ph.D. in international studies upon graduation