Hanover International Studies Department
The International Studies Department at Hanover College has provided me with a truly global outlook, an invaluable resource not only in the job market, but in the world at large. A major in International Studies is the natural choice for curious, broad-minded students hoping to acquire both a general grasp of world politics and a focused understanding of a particular region. The interdisciplinary nature of the International Studies major, coupled with Hanover's emphasis on study abroad, fosters a learning environment that favors academic exploration and personal experience over second-hand textbook accounts of other nations' political and cultural characteristics. My travels within Germany and South Africa have opened my eyes to exciting cultural traditions, my mind to revolutionary political ideas, and my heart to new friends of varying backgrounds. While exploring the disciplines of anthropology, economics, history, and political science, I gained skills of critical analysis and cultural understanding that have helped shape my perceptions of the ever-changing balance of power in world politics.
Sara St. John, Class of 2006
Why Study International Studies?
Deciding upon a major can be an intimidating task, and you may be wondering if international studies would be a good fit for you. If any of the following is true for you, then the international studies department at Hanover College may be just what you have been searching for.
You enjoy:
• Learning about international cultures, politics, economics, and history
• Foreign languages
• Traveling abroad
You want to:
• Gain an understanding of cross-cultural differences
• Develop effective communication skills
• Learn another language
• Work in the international business world
What Hanover International Studies Offers
People must understand a broad range of cultural perspectives and economic issues to achieve personal and professional success in today's global economy. We are now living in what many call a "Global Village." Understanding the complexities of international interdependence is the first step towards capitalizing on the opportunities of globalization and overcoming its problems.
The International Studies major is an interdepartmental major focusing students' attention on the international scene, primarily from political, economic, historical, and socio-cultural perspectives. By offering courses focused on international studies, students are better prepared for an active role in our growing global community.
In addition to core requirements, which provide student with functional tools and their methods of application, the program features an elective component. This allows students to further explore and focus on areas of interest to them. Together, they provide a solid foundation for professional involvement in the international arena.
Students majoring in international studies at Hanover College will acquire specific skills in several academic disciplines. With these skills, graduates will be able to make professional contributions in positions that require sensitivity and expertise in areas of international relations. Some of the skills and knowledge students will gain include:
• A historical grasp of the formation of our contemporary world
• A heightened sensitivity to cross-cultural differences
• An understanding of the basics of international social, political, and economic relations
• Independent thought and action
• Critical thinking
• Effective communication
• Practical know-how of research design, implementation, and analysis
• Competence in at least one language other than English
By providing students with practical experience and a comprehensive education, the international studies department at Hanover prepares students for graduate school and fulfilling professional careers.
Highlights
Diverse Faculty with Global Experience
The international studies diverse faculty comes to Hanover from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. Each member brings their own areas of expertise to the department including, but not limited to, East Asian history, modern China, social organization, economics, cultures of the Middle East, cultures of North and East Africa, comparative religions, American foreign policy, international law and organization, international conflict, and U.S. military intervention.
Spring Term
As a Hanover student, you will have an entire month to fully immerse yourself in one subject with no other class distractions. The international studies department offers unique opportunities for travel during this time, giving students the chance to experience their area of study firsthand. Students are able to choose from the following Spring Term classes:
United Nations Field Study in New York City
This course, taught by Dr. Yoon, takes place in New York City. The purpose of the course is to help students understand the functions and the operations of the United Nations. The course includes UN and NGO briefings, as well as interviews with UN and NGO officials and foreign diplomats.
Modern Japan
This course taught by Dr. Lian is a search for the spirit of modern and contemporary Japan. The search will take the class to the Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines in Kyoto and Nara (ancient capitals of Japan), and to the austerely beautiful Zen rock gardens that affirm but also defy the evanescence of life. It will also take the class on board the Shinkansen bullet train as it glides into the modern city of Tokyo.
Interdepartmental Program
Because international studies is an interdepartmental program, students will take courses taught by professors from various departments such as modern languages, anthropology, economics, history, and of course, international studies. The program's access to several departments within Hanover College allows us to offer a wide range of classes, focusing on topics that interest you.
Career Opportunities
International Studies within the context of a liberal arts education equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to continue on to a variety of careers and/or graduate school opportunities.
