Brigham Young University

What you'll study

The Area Studies bachelor's at Brigham Young University combines language instruction with courses in history, politics, literature, religion, economics and cultural studies related to a specific geographic region. Students normally choose a regional concentration such as Latin American Studies, Asian Studies, European Studies, Middle Eastern Studies or African Studies, and build a coherent programme of study around that region.

Typical modules and components include:

• Advanced language courses: intensive study of a relevant language to develop reading, writing and speaking proficiency.
• Regional history and politics: surveys and upper-division courses covering major historical developments, political systems and contemporary issues.
• Cultural and social studies: literature, film, religion and anthropology courses that emphasise cultural context and intercultural competency.
• Economics and development: courses on economic structures, trade and development challenges in the chosen region.
• Research methods and capstone: training in area studies research methods culminating in a senior capstone project, thesis or practicum.
• Study abroad and experiential learning: semester-long or shorter study abroad programmes, internships and language immersion experiences are strongly encouraged and widely available.

The programme is designed to be flexible: students often pair the major with complementary minors such as International Relations, Linguistics, Business, or Education, and may tailor electives to reflect career goals or graduate study plans.

Entry requirements

Admission to Brigham Young University is competitive and based on academic preparation and college-ready credentials. Typical expectations for applicants include a strong high school record with coursework in English, social studies, foreign language and mathematics. Successful applicants to Area Studies will benefit from prior study of a relevant foreign language, evidence of critical reading and writing ability, and coursework that demonstrates interest in the chosen region.

Specific admissions materials may include official transcripts, a personal statement, and standardised test scores where applicable according to university policy. Transfer students should submit college transcripts and a record of completed coursework. Applicants who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints follow the university’s student conduct and endorsement processes; enquiries about admissions eligibility and documentation should be directed to BYU Admissions for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Area Studies leave with strong language skills, regional knowledge and analytical abilities that are valued in multiple sectors. Common career paths include:

• Diplomacy and foreign service
• International non-governmental organisations and development agencies
• Global business and trade roles, including market research and country analysis
• Education and language teaching
• Translation, interpretation and localisation work
• Journalism and media covering international affairs
• Intelligence, security and policy analysis
• Graduate study in fields such as international relations, regional studies, law or public policy

Many graduates augment their employability with study abroad, internships in relevant organisations, and language certifications; the degree is particularly valuable for roles that require cultural literacy and the ability to navigate transnational contexts.

Why study at Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University offers strong, student-centred area studies training with an emphasis on language proficiency and immersive experience. The university maintains extensive language instruction resources, opportunities for overseas study through established exchange programmes, and faculty who specialise in regional research and teaching.

Students benefit from a collaborative learning environment, undergraduate research opportunities, and career services that connect them to internships and employers in the region and national organisations. BYU’s location near a metropolitan area also provides access to international businesses, consulates and cultural institutions for applied learning experiences.