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 (in Area Studies or Transnational Studies):

1. Analyze international issues.

2. Explain the similarities and differences between their own culture/society and those of people in other countries. 

3. Demonstrate interactive skills with people of different cultural backgrounds and spoken languages.

4. Apply multi-disciplinary perspectives to a research topic.

5. Synthesize their in-depth understanding of international issues through an independent research project.

Student Learning Outcomes for the IS Area Studies Minor: 
IS Area Studies Minors will be able to:

1. Analyze international issues. 

2. Explain the similarities and differences between their own cultures/ societies and those of other people in the region of their focused area of study.

3. Demonstrate interactive skills with people of different cultural backgrounds and spoken languages in the region of their focus.

Student Learning Outcomes for the IS Transnational Studies Minor: 
IS Transnational Studies Minors will be able to:

1. Explain how relationships between governments, regions, and countries impact the contemporary world.

2. Leverage transnational approaches to global problems facing them today.

3. Function effectively in a globalized world by acquiring language competencies and cultural humility.

Programs

• International Studies, B.A.

• Area Studies Minor
• Transnational Studies Minor