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Minor in Applied International Studies
The interdisciplinary Minor in Applied International Studies is a rigorous, eye-opening, career-building academic experience. It prepares MIT undergraduates for productive roles in today's global academic or professional environments by integrating hands-on cross-cultural learning and international experiences into their courses of study. Among the class of 2008, 19 students have completed the Minor in AIS, making it HASS’ second largest minor.
The Minor is based on the three key principles that inform a rigorous international education:
- The ability to speak the language of a foreign country and understand its culture
- Awareness of fundamental international economic, political, cultural and historical patterns
- Hands-on experience—internship, study or research—in another culture combined with theoretical learning
Requirements
The requirements consist of six subjects arranged into three areas and an experience abroad. The junior/senior P/D/F option may not be used in the minor program.
Area I: Language and Culture
- Two or three subjects in foreign languages/cultures (beyond first-year language), or anthropology
- At least two of these subjects must focus on specific region or country
Area II: International Politics, Economics, and History
- Two or three subjects
- At least one subject that focuses on country/region chosen in Area I
Area III: International Experience
- One or two subjects
- Preparation 21F.019 Communicating Across Cultures, offered in the Spring
- While abroad: 17.921IJ/21F.099 Independent International Research Project (9 units)
- Re-entry course: 17.199J/21.F098 Working in a Global Economy, offered in the Fall
Qualifying courses will be determined with the help of the advisor. See sample list of subjects.
To learn more and enroll in the Minor, contact:
Dr. Serenella Sferza
Minor Advisor
ssferza@mit.edu
617 452-2693
Click above to read more about MAIS student, Nicki Lehrer.
"In today’s world, we are all citizens of a global society. Regardless of our path of study or professional field, we must have the skills and knowledge to communicate and work with people who come from different backgrounds and cultures. Having the ability to understand human differences and succeed in the global community in which we live is one of the most important and valuable skills today. The Applied International Studies minor gives us the opportunity to learn about global markets, cultures, and people, and prepares us to join the global professional world."
Nicki Lehrer, Course XVI
