Interdisciplinary Education
Integrating History, Theory & Practice
At Korbel, our educational approach is interdisciplinary at its core. Our faculty hold degrees across more than a dozen fields, which allows us to offer a diverse range of courses that accommodate the continually evolving needs of professional sectors in international business and government. All degrees blend a range of disciplines, from economics to security to human rights, allowing you to develop a complex understanding of variable global challenges.
For any given international issue, there are multiple perspectives to consider—from intersectional oppression related to race, sexuality and gender that affect personal equity, to the economic, political and environmental stakes that drive global conflicts. International inquiry requires a holistic view that integrates historical and theoretical frameworks with practical strategies for change.
Interdisciplinary research powers our programs.
Get involved with faculty and research centers.
Featured Courses
INTS 4215
Gender and Humanitarian Assistance
About this Course
In recent decades, the humanitarian system has grappled with the concept of gender and how to operationalize it in the context of humanitarian preparedness and response. Through readings, class discussions, guest speakers and assignments, students will have the opportunity to gain a better understanding of how the humanitarian system’s approach is evolving in theory and practice.
INTS 4127
Rise and Fall of Great Powers
About this Course
This new graduate course provides an in-depth look at often ignored areas of history. Learning about the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, British Empire, Russian Empire, Soviet Empire and Chinese Empire provides an excellent backdrop to understanding important historical lessons that are often downplayed in the early 21st century. The course provides a series of key readings that improve students’ understanding of the present and future developments of our century.
INTS 2470
Crime and International Politics
About this Course
What constitutes a crime in one location may constitute a personal right, a survival strategy or legitimate business opportunity in another. So how then does one address criminality in a global society? This course explores the roots of transnational crime and both domestic and international response to criminal networks. Topics include corruption, the drug trade, and human trafficking.
Centers and Institutes
Applying Interdisciplinary Education in a Real-World Context
In addition to receiving a unique, interdisciplinary education, you have the opportunity to apply your specialized knowledge in a practical way alongside that of peers and faculty members.
Korbel is home to a number of research centers that pursue cutting-edge work that advance initiatives for public good. Whether you're interested in China-U.S. cooperation, finding solutions to expand human rights, Middle East relations or conflict resolution, we offer research opportunities that complement classroom studies.
Korbel Stories
Advancing Global Peace
Two grants from the Carnegie Corporation of New York back a study into global peace and security by the Sié Chéou-Kang Center.
A Summer in Kenya
After years of planning, four planes, 30 hours, one train and a harrowing taxi ride through Mombasa, a senior international studies and music major makes it to Kenya.
We proudly offer flexible interdisciplinary degrees.
Learn more about our top-ranked programs.
