/ Undergraduate Programs / Minors / Minor Fields

Minor in Applied International Studies

MIT educates its students for a future in an increasingly global economy and international research environment. The interdisciplinary HASS Minor in Applied International Studies prepares undergraduate students for this reality by integrating international learning into their course of study. The six-subject minor is organized along three areas that address key components of international education.

The first area is language and culture. Lasting economic and social relationships in an international context are only possible for those who speak the language of a foreign country and are familiar with its cultural dimensions. Therefore, this part of the minor gives students the opportunity to become competent in a foreign language and learn about the culture of a foreign country or region.

The second area is international politics, economics, and history. This area offers students a set of subjects that help them to critically understand the economic, political, cultural and historical concepts and movements that create an increasingly interconnected world. Students take two or three subjects from this area. One of these subjects focuses on a chosen geographical region of specialization.

The third area is a significant international experience. Recognizing that theoretical learning should be combined with hands-on experience, the Minor in Applied International Studies includes a stay abroad component that exposes students to the challenges and opportunities of working and living in another culture. Within this area, the minor offers students courses that directly prepare them for these experiences abroad and help them to reflect on their work, research, or study-abroad experience after the return on campus. Students choose one or two courses. The Minor in Applied International Studies requires a stay abroad for at least three months. Students elect their stay abroad options in close consultation with the Minor Advisor. The experience abroad will typically take place within an internship, research stay, service learning opportunity, or a study abroad structure.

Tier I: Language and culture. Two or three subjects that expose students to foreign languages and/or cultures, beyond first-year language subjects. At least two subjects must focus on one country or region. Consult the Minor Advisor for a list of approved subjects.

Tier II: Politics, economics, and history. Two or three subjects, one of which must focus on the geographical area chosen in Tier I. Consult the Minor Advisor for a list of approved subjects.

Tier III: International experience. One or two subjects, which are linked to study, research, or work experiences abroad. Other subjects than these may be substituted with the approval of the Minor Advisor.
21F.019 Communicating Across Cultures
17.921J Independent International Research Project [21F.099](at least 9 units)
17.199J Working in the Global Economy [21F.098]

Additional information can be obtained from Serenella Sferza, Minor Advisor, Center for International Studies, E38-755, 617-452-2693, ssferza@mit.edu. Also visit the Minor in Applied International Studies website.