Brandeis University

What you'll study

The programme approaches globalization from multiple disciplinary angles, combining courses in political science, economics, history, sociology, anthropology and cultural studies. Core topics include theories of globalisation, international political economy, global governance, migration, human rights, security, transnational social movements and the cultural flows of media and ideas.

Typical modules and components include:

• Introductory seminars on theories of international relations and globalisation that establish conceptual foundations.
• Regional and area studies courses (for example on Latin America, East Asia, Europe, the Middle East or Africa) to situate global processes in particular contexts.
• Thematic courses such as International Political Economy, Global Environmental Politics, Migration and Refugee Studies, Human Rights and Humanitarianism, Comparative Development, and Global Health.
• Methods and skills training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, data analysis, policy evaluation and research design.
• Language requirement with progressive language study to build communicative competence relevant to students’ regional or thematic focus.
• Capstone experience such as a senior seminar, thesis or practicum that synthesises disciplinary knowledge and original research; many students undertake internships with NGOs, government offices, international organisations or media outlets.

Courses are taught by faculty across departments; students frequently combine the major with minors or concentrations in related fields such as economics, political science, history, environmental studies or area studies. Opportunities exist to take approved graduate-level courses or electives at affiliated Brandeis graduate schools with permission.

Entry requirements

Admission to Brandeis is through the university’s undergraduate admissions process. Applicants should present a completed secondary-school qualification appropriate to their country, a strong academic record with coursework in social studies and English, and evidence of intellectual curiosity through essays and extracurricular activities.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted examinations or qualifications unless exempt. Standard application materials include school transcripts, teacher or counsellor recommendations, personal statements and any required application forms. Some students enter with advanced placement credits or transfer credits from other institutions; these are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of careers that capitalise on analytical, research and language skills. Common paths include:

• Diplomacy and foreign service, working for national governments or consular services.
• International organisations and multilateral agencies, including the United Nations system and regional development banks.
• Non-governmental organisations and advocacy groups focused on development, humanitarian relief, human rights or environmental issues.
• Public policy, research and think tanks analyzing global trends and advising policymakers.
• International business, consulting and trade roles that require knowledge of global markets and regulatory environments.
• Journalism, communications and media specialising in international affairs.
• Further study in law, public policy, international relations or area studies at graduate level.

Many students gain practical experience through internships, research assistantships and study abroad, which help bridge academic study to professional networks and employment.

Why study at Brandeis University

Brandeis offers small-class teaching and close faculty mentorship within a research-active liberal arts environment, allowing students to pursue interdisciplinary international studies with personalised guidance. The university’s strong language programmes and active area-studies offerings allow students to combine theoretical training with regional expertise.

Students benefit from campus resources and centres that focus on social policy, human rights and international scholarship, and from opportunities to take selected graduate-level courses. The university’s location near a major metropolitan region also facilitates internships and connections with institutions in government, non-profit and business sectors. These features make Brandeis a suitable place for undergraduates seeking a rigorous, practice-oriented education in globalization and international affairs.