Through a combination of coursework and study abroad, students who complete a secondary major or minor in International Studies can prepare for careers or advanced study in the international arena, such as foreign service, journalism, advocacy organizations, scientific or research institutions, business, nongovernmental development organizations (NGOs), humanitarian agencies, environmental organizations, human rights organizations, think tanks, international agriculture, and international engineering. Students in International Studies gain an understanding of global issues, learn to communicate across cultures, develop awareness of cultural ideas and attitudes, and are well positioned to become global leaders in their chosen field.
A secondary major and a minor in International Studies are available for undergraduates. The program requirements are structured around a combination of a designated Topical Module and a Geographic Region, both selected by the student. Each student's program of study is designed to reflect opportunities at Iowa State University as well as the academic, intellectual, and professional interests of the student.
August 2025
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
202 Catt Hall,
2224 Osborn Dr,
AMES,
Iowa,
50011, United States
Equivalent of a minimum 3.0 high school GPA on 4.0 scale. In addition to the requirement, students must meet the following minimum high school course requirements: 4 years of English or your native language; 3 years of science (including at least two years of laboratory science courses which emphasize elements of biology, chemistry, or physics); 3 years of math (including algebra and geometry); 2 years of social studies.
English Language Requirements:
TOEFL - Internet-Based TOEFL (IBT) score of 71 with a minimum score of 17 in both the Writing and Speaking sections and Paper-Based TOEFL (PBT) score of 530
IELTS - Overall band score of 6.0 with no sub score below 5.5
PTE - Score of 48
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.