International Studies

Faculty

Bindu Madhok, program chair and professor of philosophy.
B.A., University of Calcutta; Ph.D., Brown University. Appointed 1990.

Midori Yoshii, professor of international studies.
B.A., M.A., Tsuda College Tokyo; M.A., Ph.D., Boston University. Appointed 2004.

Introduction

International studies is a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary program that encourages students to examine cross-cultural, cross-national or transnational phenomena. It seeks therefore both a depth and breadth of knowledge about the human experience. Its primary justification arises from the belief that the world is increasingly interdependent and that many of the challenges to humanity are global in scope and cannot be usefully studied within the confines of a single discipline.

Students completing the international studies major at Albion College will have acquired a solid grasp of social, political, economic and historical forces at work in the world; competence in a second language equivalent to four semesters of college-level work; a familiarity with methodologies appropriate to the study of international phenomena; and a globally relevant experience through an appropriate off-campus program. For further information, contact Midori Yoshii, adviser.

International Studies Website

Student Learning Outcomes

Student Learning Outcomes for the IS Major:

1. Students will be able to analyze international issues.

2. Students will be able to explain the similarities and differences between their own cultures/societies and those of people in other countries.

3. Students will be able to demonstrate interactive skills with people of different cultural backgrounds and spoken languages.

4. Students will be able to synthesize their in-depth understanding of international issues through independent research projects.

Student Learning Outcomes for the IS Minor in Area Studies:

1. Students will be able to analyze social, political, economic, and historical forces at work in a specific geographical region or country.

2. Students will be able to explain the similarities and differences between their own cultures/ societies and those of people in other countries.

3. Students will be able to demonstrate interactive skills with people of different cultural backgrounds and spoken languages.

Student Learning Outcomes for the IS Minor in Transnational Studies:

1. Students will be able to analyze how relationships among governments, regions, and countries impact our contemporary world.

2. Students will be able to explain the similarities and differences between their own cultures/ societies and those of people in other countries.

3. Students will be able to demonstrate interactive skills with people of different cultural backgrounds and spoken languages.

Programs

Major

International Studies, B.A.

Minor