The world’s hardest problems — conflict, inequality, displacement, injustice — don’t yield to single disciplines. The International Studies Concentration equips you to work across borders, frameworks, and fields of knowledge to understand why these problems persist and how to address them.
Drawing on history, political science, anthropology, economics, sociology, and international relations, the concentration builds the analytical range, cultural competence, and communication skills that careers in our interconnected world require.
What is a concentration?
A concentration is different from a traditional major. Concentrations allow you to explore different subjects at a high-level or focus deeper on areas you’re passionate about while working within the liberal arts major.
International Studies is more than politics, policy, or governance. It is an opportunity to develop a global perspective, refine critical thinking skills, and engage with the complex issues that shape our world.
— Mukesh Bastola ’24, M.S. in public policy and management, Carnegie Mellon University
International Studies at Soka gives you the tools to examine pressing global problems from multiple angles, integrating political, historical, economic, and cultural perspectives. In small classes averaging 12 students, you might:
Trace the impact of policies on economic growth and development in East Asia
Learn the basics of public health while studying how international organizations shape global health programs
International Studies concentrators take at least five courses from the curriculum, three at the 300 or 400 level. Courses range across regions and disciplines — you might examine refugee law and border politics one semester, economic development the next.
Every International Studies senior completes a capstone— a substantial, faculty-guided research project that connects your academic training to a question that matters to you. For many students, the capstone experience helps them hone expertise in a field that informs their career trajectories.
I chose to pursue the International Studies Concentration because my goal is to help build a world rooted in nonviolence. Whether I achieve that through advancing nuclear disarmament education, shaping international policy, or advising sovereign states, I want to contribute to a more just and peaceful global society.
— Viki Lohk ’26
Alumni have pursued graduate studies in fields ranging from law and human rights to public health, gender studies, and social policy. They’ve worked for the United Nations, founded eco-friendly businesses, reported for major news outlets, advised national governments, served on their local city council, and taught every grade level from kindergarten to university. Wherever your passion lies, IS prepares you to make your mark.
“The International Studies Concentration provided me with a strong foundation in global health governance, policy analysis, and intercultural engagement, preparing me to contribute meaningfully to international health initiatives and advocacy for marginalized communities.”
Muchindu's Role after Soka: M.S. in Health and International Development at the London School of Economics and Political Science
“My International Studies coursework and related opportunities equipped me with essential skills — analytical thinking, policy analysis, and global awareness — that continue to guide my academic and professional journey.”
Mukesh's Role after Soka: M.S. in Public Policy and Management at Carnegie Mellon University
“My time at Soka made being an entrepreneur achievable … There is a small army of faculty, staff, and friends who are always cheering you on. They support you with resources that connect you to other entrepreneurs. They connect you to subject matter experts that help you create an unshakable foundation.”
Nandini's Role After Soka: Co-Founder of Beej Farms
“SUA’s flexible curriculum, and the fact that professors are open to spending a lot of time mentoring students, helped me develop my interest in politics.”
Akemi's Role after Soka: Economy and Government Reporter at Bloomberg News
“The International Studies classes I took while at SUA gave me the necessary background to excel in my M.A. in conflict studies and human rights and further my research into the efficiency of U.N. peacekeeping operations. After graduating, I worked in Afghanistan for several years, where I experienced hands-on some of the issues we discussed in IS classes.”
Irina's Role After Soka: Program Management Officer at the United Nations Mine Action Service
Alumni have pursued graduate studies in fields ranging from law and human rights to public health, gender studies, and social policy. They’ve worked for the United Nations, founded eco-friendly businesses, reported for major news outlets, advised national governments, served on their local city council, and taught every grade level from kindergarten to university. Wherever your passion lies, IS prepares you to make your mark.
“The International Studies Concentration provided me with a strong foundation in global health governance, policy analysis, and intercultural engagement, preparing me to contribute meaningfully to international health initiatives and advocacy for marginalized communities.”
Muchindu's Role after Soka: M.S. in Health and International Development at the London School of Economics and Political Science
“My International Studies coursework and related opportunities equipped me with essential skills — analytical thinking, policy analysis, and global awareness — that continue to guide my academic and professional journey.”
Mukesh's Role after Soka: M.S. in Public Policy and Management at Carnegie Mellon University
“My time at Soka made being an entrepreneur achievable … There is a small army of faculty, staff, and friends who are always cheering you on. They support you with resources that connect you to other entrepreneurs. They connect you to subject matter experts that help you create an unshakable foundation.”
Nandini's Role After Soka: Co-Founder of Beej Farms
“SUA’s flexible curriculum, and the fact that professors are open to spending a lot of time mentoring students, helped me develop my interest in politics.”
Akemi's Role after Soka: Economy and Government Reporter at Bloomberg News
“The International Studies classes I took while at SUA gave me the necessary background to excel in my M.A. in conflict studies and human rights and further my research into the efficiency of U.N. peacekeeping operations. After graduating, I worked in Afghanistan for several years, where I experienced hands-on some of the issues we discussed in IS classes.”
Irina's Role After Soka: Program Management Officer at the United Nations Mine Action Service
