
International Studies and Modern Languages
Program
Honours in International Studies and Modern Languages

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Description
This multidisciplinary program introduces students to the study of international issues, as well as cultural phenomena at the international level. It leads to an in-depth understanding of the complex connections and interactions among local, national, regional and global processes. While providing a solid training in political science, it introduces students to a broad variety of disciplines, such as economics, geography, history, and world religions.
As a complement to its focus on international studies, the program offers advanced foreign-language training. You will become proficient in Canada’s two official languages and in at least one additional modern language (Arabic, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish), thus preparing you for the demands of an internationally-oriented career. The program also develops fundamental skills in critical thinking, analysis and synthesis, and teaches you a variety of research and work methods.
General admission requirements
Province | Prerequisites | Admission averages |
---|---|---|
Ontario | English or Français 4U | ± 75% |
Quebec – CEGEP | English (603) or Français (601) | ± 65% |
Quebec – Secondary V | English or Français | 84% |
Note: The candidate must demonstrate elementary or intermediate level French skills.
Program highlights
- This program exposes students to a wide range of disciplinary viewpoints including economics, geography, history and world religions, while simultaneously providing a solid foundation in political science.
- One of only three programs in Canada offering students intensive training in a second and third language.
- Students can choose from a wide range of international experiences that complement their degree. These will provide them with unique work experience that can help distinguish them on the job market (international exchanges, field research courses, model United Nations courses, international internships).
Career opportunities
- Departmental assistant in international relations
- Program or project officer
- International development officer
- International policy analyst
- Foreign-service officer
- NGO consultant/officer
Course examples
- POL 3124 The Politics of Security
- POL 3178 Canadian Foreign Policy and North American Relations
- POL 4126 Contemporary Geopolitics
- POL 4170 Politics of Foreign Aid
International opportunities
This program provides students with international opportunities as of their third year of study.
Testimonials

“I moved to Canada from Colombia when I was 7 years old. I chose this multidisciplinary program because I have an appetite for adventure, a passion for languages. I’m interested in international relations and all the cultural intricacies that shape the dynamics between people and countries. I enriched my experience by completing two semesters abroad (in France and Italy) and even took part in a Model United Nations Course which culminated in an unforgettable trip to New York City! This program is fun and unique and the French Immersion option really appealed to me!”
Valentina Perez Montoya, graduate

" Studying international relations gives me the chance to combine my love of history, culture and languages with the always fascinating – and sometimes infuriating – realm of politics. To me, there are few things that are more interesting, and more important, than investigating the many challenges that face our planet, and how we might think about addressing them.
In a world that is becoming more and more globalised by the day, both the public and private sectors are increasingly interested in finding talented individuals with multiple language skills who have international expertise.”
Kevin McMillan, professor