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.

Learn more about program requirements.

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.

Learn more about career opportunities.

A Conversation with the Consul General of Azerbaijan

Tuesday, May 5, 2026
12:30-1:45 p.m.
in Engineering, Room 328

Mr. Vugar Gurbanov is a career diplomat with 20 years of experience in national security and foreign policy. He previously served as a Counselor at the Embassy of Azerbaijan in the United States and at Azerbaijan’s Mission to NATO, coordinating military contributions to NATO operations.

Mr. Gurbanov holds three master’s degrees and is a distinguished graduate of the U.S. National Defense University, as well as an alumnus of the College of Europe and Baku State University. He is fluent in Azerbaijani, English, Russian, and Turkish.

Congratulations to our 2026 Outstanding Graduating Senior!

Angelle Duong is pursuing a double major in Linguistics and Comparative International Studies (CINTS), along with a certificate in Human Rights. Within CINTS, she focuses on General Asia and China.

She was drawn to CINTS after recognizing how her Linguistics coursework—especially its emphasis on how language shapes power dynamics—closely aligns with examining how global power structures affect local communities. Through this interdisciplinary approach, she has developed strong critical thinking skills and cross-cultural empathy, gaining deeper insight into how people live under diverse political systems. She further expanded this perspective while studying abroad in Hong Kong, where she explored the intersection of language and global affairs.

She selected Dr. Zamira Abman as her Most Influential Faculty Member in recognition of Dr. Abman’s mentorship since her freshman year. From encouraging her to pursue a double major in CINTS, to guiding her through her Gilman Scholarship essays for the ISEP Exchange program, to supporting her in refining her resume and preparing for life after graduation, Dr. Abman’s guidance has been instrumental. In the CINTS 400 Capstone course, Dr. Abman challenged her to reflect on how her academic experiences at SDSU have shaped her development as a globally aware citizen. She also helped her discover a passion for public service—particularly in serving marginalized communities—and encouraged her to explore careers in government and law.

Overall, her experience in CINTS has strengthened her commitment to engaging with global politics and sustaining a lifelong curiosity about the world.