International studies is an interdisciplinary area of study that brings to life the issues and events that have shaped, and continue to shape, our world. As the world globalises and nations and economies become more integrated, it is important to understand our world and the ideas and beliefs of our neighbours and trading partners. In order to compete in the international marketplace of products, ideas and knowledge, we need to understand and respect the cultures and beliefs of others. In international studies, we begin by placing today's world in context: we examine the history of the 20th century, and then move on to study the issues facing the world in the 21st century.
This major offers a uniquely African perspective to global issues. The curriculum recognises Africa's unique contribution to globalisation and the challenges faced as international integration becomes a global norm. You will be equipped with the knowledge you need to understand the world you live in, and define your place within it.
Availability
International studies is offered in the Bachelor of Social Science at Monash South Africa as a major or minor.
Outcomes
In addition to achieving the broad outcomes of their course, students successfully completing this major will be able to:
- demonstrate a deep understanding of a range of major issues and concepts associated with contemporary globalisation and how these are understood differently in a variety of national and cultural contexts
- identify a range of theoretical tools used by scholars in order to understand and describe these issues and concepts, and have a demonstrated capacity to apply these across national and cultural boundaries
- identify and select appropriate information, and appropriate procedures, to interpret and report on contemporary economic, social, cultural and political change using a variety of methods, sources and data in both English and, where appropriate, other languages.