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The Bachelor of Arts in International Studies focuses on cross-disciplinary exploration of comparative and global politics, enabling students to customize their curriculum around areas like diplomatic relations, worldwide economic or environmental issues, or international collaboration and disputes. Graduates acquire foundational knowledge of key facts, themes, theories, and principles essential for comprehending international studies. This program develops students' abilities in analytical reasoning, written communication, and political evaluation within international studies frameworks.
The B.A. in international studies offers two pathways: a standard major and an intensive track requiring extra courses, sustained academic excellence, and a capstone research project resulting in a thesis. The intensive option provides valuable preparation for students considering advanced academic work or research careers.
International freshman applicants must be high school graduates (students that have the equivalent of a diploma in the United States).
English proficiency is measured through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A score of at least 550 on the paper based exam or 77 on the internet based TOEFL is required. USC also accepts the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the PTE Academic Test. Students must score at least a 6.5 on the IELTS, or at least a 53 on the PTE.