International Studies and Modern Languages

Description

This multi-disciplinary program introduces you to the study of international issues, trans-border phenomena and intercultural relations of all kinds.  It leads to an in-depth understanding of the complex connections and interactions among local, national, regional and global processes. 

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, 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 methods.  You will benefit from extensive international opportunities, including study abroad, international field-research courses, a Model UN course, and international internships.

In addition to your second official language, you can choose to study one of the following modern languages (as your third language of study): Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish.

General admission requirements

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 and rigorous foundation in political science.
• One of only three other programs in Canada offering students intensive training in a second and third language.
• Students can choose from a range of international experiences that complement their degree while providing them with uncommon work experience that can help distinguish them on the job market.
• Many students in this program choose to participate in the Model UN course through which they take a trip to New York City for an annual international competition (the uOttawa team continues to outperform other institutions from around the world, year after year).

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, student

" 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

Discover more testimonials (School of Political Studies)