Overview

The International Studies programme at the University of South Dakota provides a comprehensive foundation for students eager to engage with global cultures, history, and political systems. This interdisciplinary degree encourages learners to expand their perspectives through rigorous academic study and direct international engagement. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates language proficiency with a deep understanding of international relations and global affairs.

Why International Studies at the University of South Dakota?

The University of South Dakota was the first public institution in the state to establish a major in this field, maintaining a long-standing reputation for excellence. The programme is distinguished by its commitment to global mobility, with all majors participating in study abroad experiences. Students have previously secured prestigious national scholarships, such as the Boren Scholarship, to fund their travels and research in diverse locations including Senegal and Kyrgyzstan.

Learners benefit from small class sizes and direct access to faculty members who possess extensive international expertise in areas like human rights, gender politics, and comparative political economy. Additionally, the Department of Political Science Farber Fund provides dedicated financial assistance to support internships, research projects, and overseas travel for high-achieving students.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13299 per year
National fee: USD 13299 per year
Local fee: USD 9687 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to pair language specialisation with regional political studies. Modules may include:

International Relations
Comparative Politics
International Law
International Human Rights
Gender Politics
Criminology
Latin American Politics
Victimology
Political Economy

Careers with International Studies

Graduates from the University of South Dakota are prepared for diverse professional paths in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. The programme develops the analytical and cultural competencies required for roles in the foreign service, government administration, and international law. Alumni have successfully secured positions as legislative directors on Capitol Hill and have interned for the State Department in countries such as Germany, Russia, and Morocco.

The degree also serves as a strong foundation for further academic pursuit or specialised professional careers. Former students have transitioned into roles as journalists, social workers, physicians, and professors. By combining linguistic skills with a broad understanding of global community dynamics, graduates are well-positioned to influence civic life and promote social benefits within the global community.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Cultural Anthropology

World Regional Geography

World Civilizations

Governments of the World

World Ethnography
British Literature

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Vermillion, United States

Disciplines

International Relations View 665 other Bachelors in International Relations in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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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

Official high school (secondary school) transcript with grade point average equivalent to 2.6 on a 4.0 scale.
Demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following.
Application Fee
Passport
Official Statement of Finances

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

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Out-of-State

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9687 USD / year

≈ 9687 USD / year

Living costs

Vermillion

United States

1024 - 1781 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 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

Vermillion

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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