International Studies, B.A.

International Studies, B.A.

Program Overview

Are you drawn to international news stories of individuals or groups overcoming incredible odds? Do you have a deep desire to see transformation in the world? Do you view the world through the lens of economics, politics, and business? If so, you should consider a degree in international studies.

After gaining a solid foundation in the fields of geography, economics, international relations, and research methods, you’ll be ready to address serious social and political issues of the world today. Whether your heart’s passion is gender equality or human rights, economics or community health, Southeast Asia or the Middle East, a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from PLNU will prepare you to serve the world.

With seven concentrations to choose from, an international studies major will provide you with a broad understanding of global issues while allowing you to focus your attention on one region of the world — diving in depth into its unique politics, culture, and history. Alternatively, you can choose a peace studies concentration, which will have you considering the tough questions of today’s tumultuous political climate. 

At PLNU, our international studies program centers on four foundations:

  • Geography
  • Economics
  • International relations
  • Research methods

Each of these is intentionally used to discuss and address the socio-political issues of the world today both in the classroom and beyond.

Concentrations:

  • Peace Studies
  • Europe
  • Middle East
  • Russia and the Former Soviet Union
  • Asia
  • Latin America
  • Africa

Additionally, as an international studies major, you will spend a semester studying abroad — for the same cost as being on the PLNU campus. You can study international relations at the United Nations, Arabic in Jordan, or the culture and politics of South Africa in Johannesburg!

Global Journeys

Sage Taber’s Media Highlights Mediterranean Perspectives
Cassie Furnari Helps Kenyan Teenagers Find Hope Through Milele 
Rachel Lozano Castro Goes Beyond Her Borders
What Degree Should I Get to Work in Nonprofits?

Worldview in Motion

Global Mindset

"Merging Passions"
"Service Focused"

Windows to the World

Sage Taber’s Media Highlights Mediterranean Perspectives Sage Taber's storytelling and cross-cultural work enrich global perspectives and amplify marginalized voices through multimedia projects. Discover
Cassie Furnari Helps Kenyan Teenagers Find Hope Through Milele  Cassie Furnari passion for helping others led her to start Milele International in Kitale, Kenya. Discover
Rachel Lozano Castro Goes Beyond Her Borders This international studies alum cultivates a life of innovation. Discover
What Degree Should I Get to Work in Nonprofits? There are many undergraduate degrees that prepare you for a career in the nonprofit sector, many of which can be tailored to your specific cause interests. Discover
Emily Thomé: Cultivating Community Engagement With Plant With Purpose Emily Thomé bridges faith and environmental stewardship through her work at Plant With Purpose. Discover
Beautifully Bookish Bethany: An Unexpected YouTube Career PLNU alum Bethany Pullen was inspired to create a YouTube channel driven by her love of reading. Discover
Creating Connection Through Aira: An App for People Who Are Blind and Low Vision Aira is a local start-up company transforming the way people who are blind, low vision, or experiencing age-related vision loss experience daily life and connection with others. Discover
Why is Servant Leadership Important? Employees want leaders who put people first. Discover why servant leadership is necessary for today’s workforce and how to become a leader others want to follow. Discover
Merging Passions
"Growing up in Eastern Europe, working in humanitarian aid spaces, and building cross-cultural skills as I traveled throughout Europe, Asia, and North America has given me the desire to continue to see the world and its people. My greatest hope is to merge two of my passions, photography and social justice, to capture current events around the world in a dignifying and humanizing way."
Lydia Sunberg International Studies B.A.
Service Focused
"Point Loma is very service-minded and helps students identify how to use their education to serve others in whatever way that might be."
Kristen (Aster) Johnson International Studies B.A.

Course List

For information about the courses required for the International Studies, B.A. program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Major Map

Start Application

Are you ready to take the next step to begin your PLNU journey? Whether you’re a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we’re looking for in our applicants and how you can apply.

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Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At PLNU, we’re committed to supporting you — academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Student Support

Career Opportunities

Finding your calling with an international studies degree has boundless possibilities — from international business, humanitarian and refugee aid, national intelligence and security, public affairs, and even media. Let PLNU help you get started on this exhilarating journey. 

What can you do with an international studies degree?

Public Relations (PR) and Fundraising Managers

Public Relations (PR) and Fundraising Managers in International Studies focus on promoting the mission and initiatives of organizations, while also securing financial support to drive global projects. They develop communication strategies, manage media relations, and engage with potential donors or sponsors to secure funding for international causes. PR and Fundraising Managers can work for NGOs, government organizations, international development firms, or advocacy groups, with opportunities in private firms or as independent consultants.

  • Median Pay: $132,870/year
  • Number of Jobs: 116,600
  • Job Outlook (2023–2033): +7%
  • Employment Change: +7,700 jobs
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Foreign Service Officer

A Foreign Service Officer represents their country abroad, working to promote diplomatic relations, assist citizens, and support international policy objectives in foreign nations. They manage consular affairs, engage in political analysis, and advocate for national interests in various global contexts. Foreign Service Officers typically work for government agencies, such as the U.S. Department of State or similar international bodies, with opportunities for international travel, assignments in embassies, or consulates around the world.

  • Median Pay: $83,980/year
  • Number of Jobs: 1,397,600
  • Job Outlook (2023–2033): +8%
  • Employment Change: +111,400 jobs
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Political Scientist

A Political Scientist studies the systems, behaviors, and policies that shape political processes, analyzing data to understand political dynamics and their global impact. They may focus on areas such as international relations, governance, or political theory, and use their research to influence policy decisions. Political Scientists can work in government agencies, research institutions, think tanks, or international organizations, with opportunities in academia, consulting, or as policy advisors in both public and private sectors.

  • Median Pay: $139,380/year
  • Number of Jobs: 6,200
  • Job Outlook (2023–2033): +3%
  • Employment Change: +200 jobs
View Full BLS Profile

Utilize your degree to answer the tough questions of today’s ever-changing geopolitical and global business climate

With a degree in international studies, you will have the tools to step into a wide-range of careers and industries. From international business, public affairs, and all the careers in between, not only will you bring new insight into your field, but you will have a more holistic and greater understanding of the world around you. Step into your role as an informed leader with an International Studies B.A.

Apply to PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors here for additional support and answers to any questions you may have.

Department Faculty