International studies (IS) is an interdisciplinary major with a broad background in international and transnational political, social, economic, commercial, and environmental affairs, together with a comparative study of politics, economics, security, and culture. The goal is to provide students with the necessary tools to understand global processes in their totality and how they are situated and lived in specific regions. The major provides an integrated program of courses that lays the foundation for professional training in a wide variety of areas. Such a foundation can be invaluable in securing a place in competitive graduate or professional schools, which, in turn, prepare students for government service, or for other careers with an international focus, including those in multinational corporations, international finance, non-governmental organizations, and institutions of teaching and research. The IS major complements numerous majors across campus. Many students choose to double major or enhance their studies with one or more certificates, such as the global health certificate or those offered by the area studies centers. This major is interdisciplinary, offering a wealth of options. Careful planning and consultation with the IS advisor is especially important.