Who We Are
The Department of Comparative International Studies at San Diego State University takes a comprehensive, transnational approach to the study of Africa, Asia, Europe, Eurasia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Middle East.
The program combines intensive language training with the interdisciplinary study of diverse societies and cultures. Students graduate with a strong command of one or more foreign languages and an expertise in two world regions—essential skills both for successful careers with an international focus and for advanced degree programs in a wide variety of fields, including, for example, international business, law, international relations, journalism, and cultural studies.
Classes in the department are small by the standards of a large research university, creating a tight-knit community of students and faculty. This creates effective student-centered learning environments that encourage active participation, collaboration, and critical thinking. Students have access to mentoring from experienced faculty who are committed to helping them thrive and achieve their goals toward a desired career or advanced graduate training.
Comparative International Studies is an interdisciplinary field, and the department collaborates with many programs across campus, including Africana Studies, History, the Honors Program, International Business, International Security and Conflict Resolution (ISCOR), Jewish Studies, the Master of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences (MALAS), and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. The department also serves a substantial student population beyond its own major and minors, enhancing the interdisciplinary character of our classes.
In language instruction, we partner with SDSU’s Language and Applied Research Center (LARC), a state-of-the-art facility that is part of a select group of 15 national centers funded by the U.S. Department of Education and one of five national Language Training Centers funded by the Department of Defense.
The department hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including scholarly lectures, musical and theatrical performances. We also host a series of “Career Pathways” talks on campus, featuring CINTS alumni and professionals from a wide range of sectors to provide students with insights into future careers they may pursue with their CINTS degree.