Overview

The Comparative International Studies programme at San Diego State University provides students with a sophisticated understanding of the global forces that shape modern societies and governments. This interdisciplinary major integrates perspectives from the humanities and social sciences to prepare graduates for an increasingly multi-ethnic workforce. By combining regional expertise with linguistic proficiency, the curriculum ensures a well-rounded academic experience.

Why Comparative International Studies at San Diego State University?

Choosing this major allows students to benefit from a unique academic structure that focuses on two distinct world regions. San Diego State University emphasises experiential learning, requiring all participants to complete an international experience of at least three weeks. This practical exposure is complemented by a mandatory minor in a foreign language, ensuring students possess the communication tools necessary for global engagement.

The programme is recognised as the fastest-growing major within the College of Arts and Letters. Students have access to a diverse faculty drawn from various disciplinary departments and area studies centres. Furthermore, the curriculum culminates in a senior research project, allowing students to apply their analytical skills to a specific area of international interest under expert mentorship.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14130 per year
National fee: USD 14130 per year
Local fee: USD 6838 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide flexibility across various geographic regions and academic disciplines. Modules may include:

European Literature
Chinese Politics
Biocultural Anthropology
Buddhism
Linguistics
Contemporary Filipino-American Issues
Religion
History
Sociology

Careers with Comparative International Studies

Graduates are equipped with highly transferable skills, including critical thinking, research, and cross-cultural adaptability. These competencies are vital for roles in local, state, and national government sectors. Many alumni find success within international non-profit organisations, social service providers, and cultural agencies. The degree also serves as a strong foundation for careers in international development, commerce, tourism, and communications.

Beyond immediate employment, the programme prepares students for advanced graduate-level education. Graduates often pursue further study in the liberal arts, regional studies, or specific social science disciplines. Previous students have secured positions in consular offices and public administration, demonstrating the practical value of the degree in the global job market.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Human and Social Development

Culture and Society

Populations and Borders

Institutions and Change

Social Sciences

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

International Relations International Law View 102 other Bachelors in International Law in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

National

Admission application through the Cal State Apply website (online)

Unofficial transcripts

Your Social Security Number, if you have one.

Your citizenship status.

Credit card. Application fees are due at the time of submission and are paid by credit card.

Annual income. If you are a dependent, then report your parents income. If you are independent, then report your income.

Your parent's employment background and two recommendations. This applies only if you are applying to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

International

Completion of high school/secondary level

SAT/ACT Tests

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Out-of-State

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6838 USD / year

≈ 6838 USD / year

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Comparative International Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

San Diego

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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