Engage with the world.
Our comprehensive interdisciplinary program offers a broad view of comparative international
studies.
Why choose this major?
The Comparative International Studies major is an unique program that combines the study of two world regions (identified as a primary and a secondary area of focus) with:
Foreign Language - Knowing one or more foreign language is essential in order to effectively understand another culture, therefore, all of our majors are required to complete a minor in a foreign language.
Study Abroad - All students are required to participate in an international experience amounting to a minimum of three weeks spent abroad and completing a minimum of three units of study abroad.
Research - All students must complete a culminating senior project in their final year.
What can I do with this major?
A major in international studies helps students develop skills that are valued by employers, that include analytical thinking, research, writing, problem solving, and knowledge of other cultures and languages.
Those completing the major will be prepared to meet the challenges of the new era of globalization, including careers in local, state, and national government, in national and international non-profit organizations such as social service providers, cultural organizations, or international development agencies, and in areas such as international education, commerce, tourism, and communications.
Majors will also be prepared to pursue graduate level education in liberal arts and sciences, in regional studies, or in a particular discipline within the areas in the humanities and social sciences.
A Message from the Director
Hello, I am Prof. Abman. I am the director and undergraduate advisor for Comparative and International Studies (CINTS). I am also an assistant professor in the History and European Studies departments at SDSU. I advise CINTS students on the required coursework, study abroad requirements and other areas related to the major. I teach the capstone course, CINTS 400 where I help CINTS seniors to reflect on their study abroad and SDSU experiences, assist them in improving their professional portfolios, and mentor them through the transition period to the post-graduation life. What I love the most about the program is the opportunity it provides students to take classes from across disciplines. Through an inter-disciplinary approach, the major helps students obtain necessary skills, namely research, critical thinking, and language skills to successfully prepare them for jobs in our ever-changing global world. Please contact me if you have any questions about the program.
Hadil Salih
Graduated in 2023
News & Announcements
From CINTS to to the Real World: Preparing for a Career in Finance
Friday, April 10, 2026
1 p.m.
in Storm Hall (SH) 222D
Join CINTS alumna Stephanie Boice (’21), Assistant Vice President in Commercial Real Estate at Wells Fargo, for a conversation about her journey into real estate securitization and capital markets.
She’ll share insights on breaking into finance, navigating the industry, and turning a CINTS education into corporate success.
From CINTS to Global Careers: NGOs, Grad School & International Futures
Friday, April 10, 2026
12 p.m.
Join us via Zoom
Join us for an alumni talk featuring Sarah Karver (CINTS ‘20), Senior Production Specialist at Education First in Washington, DC.
She will discuss careers in nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and international education, applying to M.A. programs in France, and building globally mobile careers.
From SDSU to International Service: Language Study, Fellowships & Foreign Policy
Friday, March 27, 2026
1 p.m.
in Storm Hall (SH) 222D
Join SDSU alumna Maveen Mallah (’23) for a career talk on pathways into international affairs and U.S. foreign policy.
Drawing from her experience as a Boren Fellow in Oman and graduate studies at the American University’s International Affairs program, Maveen will share insights on fellowships, language study abroad, graduate school, and careers in international service.
From CINTS to Community Impact: A Career in Humanitarian Services
Friday, March 27, 2026
12 p.m.
in Storm Hall (SH) 222D
Join CINTS alum Cecily Ma (she/they), Humanitarian Services Manager at CHIRLA, as they discuss their journey from SDSU to leadership in immigrant rights and housing justice.
With experience in refugee resettlement and San Diego housing programs, Cecily focuses on trauma-informed care and community empowerment.
Learn how a CINTS degree can lead to meaningful, justice-driven careers in humanitarian services, public policy, and global engagement.
See more news and upcoming events.