<p>I'm trying to decide on a major, and international studies or european studies sounds really interesting to me. But of course I want this to translate to a job. What careers are connected with these majors? Do you feel this is a practical route, or should I just pick a different major? (also, is this very different from international relations?)</p>
<p>International studies is a watered down version of international relations. The only real difference is that the focus is on cultural studies over social science. There are next to no jobs for undergrads with that degree, so don’t pursue it unless you intend to go to grad school.</p>
<p>I’m also an IS major and my courses have little to do with cultural studies. Is there a difference between schools in regards to this major?</p>
<p>Any major that ends in “Studies” is a watered down version of a real major.</p>
<p>tomofboston, truer words have never been written.</p>
<p>Every IS major I’ve ever seen (and I’ve seen my fair share) has basically been this: take some classes in IR, learn a second language, take some classes to acquaint yourself with a “region” of interest, take a little econ, take a little sociology, and study abroad. Then you’ve got yourself a major in IS.</p>
<p>Some schools I’ve seen have had an IS major that’s really an IR major, but they choose to call it IS instead of IR. Either way, the degree is completely useless. No one will hire you right out of undergrad because you have no marketable skills except, hopefully, some proficiency in a second language. I always encourage people to stay away from IS and IR unless they plan on entering academia - besides, most of the bigshot diplomats and foreign service people got PhDs assuming they’d spend their lives teaching but somehow wound up in public service (see M. Albright and C. Rice). The only other way to make it big in world affairs is to become a superstar in some completely unrelated area (see C. Powell and H. Clinton). I know some people will say that not everyone expects to be Sec of State some day, but this is a load of crap. Most people majoring in IS or IR think that they’re destined for a Cabinet position or key ambassadorship. Well, if that’s your goal then I suggest you drop out of college, save your money, and donate it to a presidential campaign because the only way you’ll ever get one of those jobs.</p>
<p>I had this exact question, can someone clarify on the european studies major?</p>
<p>While I agree with most of what agc 0319 says, if you elect to do an undergraduate degree in IR (of IS, IA) there a few good opportunities for employment at this level. However, most NGO’s, Think-Tanks want a Master’s Degree in IR. The CIA prefers Master Degrees for Analyst Positions, but if you intern with them as an undergrad they will hire you out-of-college if positions are available (Relative did it this way).</p>
<p>You can also become a Foreign Service Officer (FSO) for the State Dept , i.e. career diplomat, with only an undergraduate degree in IR. Although, the testing and screening for this is difficult and very selective. Once again, an internship with the State Dept as an undergrad is of key importance here. If you want to be Sec State - agree it’s usually a political appointment.</p>
<p>There a quite a few colleges that offer undergraduate majors in IR, IS, or IA. It’s hard to generalize the curriculum for each - so do some research first. As I’ve said on previous sites regarding this issue - a key in this major as an undergraduate is obtaining a good internship and networking, but alas - your looking at a Graduate Degree most likely before you really “know” anything to become an expert in the field.</p>
<p>My last “2” cents on this - personal recommendations. If you are considering a career in government picking a college in either DC or NYC would benefit due to many internship options.</p>
<p>If your thinking “academics” - go for the Ivy’s.</p>
<p>CJ</p>
<p>Becoming a FSO is incredibly difficult. Don’t get an IR degree with the goal of becoming a FSO. For FSOs, they generally want to see fluency in a foreign language. If you are hired as one (which is very unliekly to happen) you will also be sent to very dangeorus countries.</p>
<p>In regards on what the CJMadison and Homer have said, I researched with a friend the option of becoming a FSO (my friend heard about it and we were curious enough to look up the requirements and stuff). Ok. Tough is the first word that comes into mind…maybe even not really that worth it. I mean, I know everyone has different goals and everything, but it’s kinda like a bad choice I’d say. What Homer said is right… they send you to any country, but don’t picture Egypt or Europe… we’re talking about HIGH risk spots. You have to stay there, no matter the conditions… maybe you won’t even be able to speak the language of the place or not like it at all. Please look into this before committing to a career path you maybe won’t like at the long run. It’s def not for everyone. But then again, it could be a perfect match for you. So be sure to research first. :)</p>
<p>Glad to see the discussion continues about being an FSO!</p>
<p>See the below link FYI. Being a FSO is clearly not for everyone! It is an arduous process but can be a worthwhile career choice if so dedicated and motivated. If you need “extra” language training you spend pretty much the 1st year in training before being assigned overseas.</p>
<p>You do get to pick choices for assignment and careeer track and rank your choices, but alas the “Needs of the State Dept” Supercede. Yes, some postings can be in dangerous areas. Gee- this kind of sounds like the military huh!</p>
<p>Anyway - most “decent” Universities with IR majors will have a State Dept point-of-contact - usually called an Ambassador-in-Residence or something similar.</p>
<p>Not everyone gets sent to Yemen or Afghanistan!</p>
<p>[U.S</a>. Department of State Careers - Employment Opportunities](<a href=“http://careers.state.gov/officer/employment.html]U.S”>http://careers.state.gov/officer/employment.html)</p>
<p>CJ</p>
<p>CJ Madison, you are right. I agree with you.
I just felt it was importante for the OP to realize that some jobs that sound really great, also have certain catches. And well, as stated before… FSO is no walk in the park, but it really depends on the person. It does depend on the person’s interests and all… for someone a situation might be scary/dangerous, while another finds it exciting and thrilling.
Then again, all I know about working as a FSO I read online some time ago. </p>
<p>I hope this helps!!! :D</p>
<p>Oh btw, I was reading again the OP’s first post. I forgot to say, that if you’re in college you can look up the career service center and check out with them for possible career paths according to your major (most schools do this). Also, if you already have a particular career path interest in mind, research it and analize what you would have to do to grab on to that path. My counselor had me do this and it really helped me become more certain with what I wanted. </p>
<p>Oh, I’ve read on several threads here in CC that it’s a good idea maybe to pair an IS major with something like Econ (or something you like that can maybe give you a broader range of job options). Just some ideas to brainstorm!!</p>
<p>Take a look:
[What</a> Can I Do With This Major/Degree? - International Studies](<a href=“http://www.lunet.edu/Majors/links/international.htm]What”>http://www.lunet.edu/Majors/links/international.htm)
[International</a> Affairs - Matching Majors to Occupations - The Career Center – Linking Futures](<a href=“http://www.career.fsu.edu/occupations/matchmajor/international-affairs.html]International”>http://www.career.fsu.edu/occupations/matchmajor/international-affairs.html)</p>