Expand your mind, change the world!
The International Studies Department focuses on global politics, addressing the urgent challenges of our time, shaped by geopolitical instability, changing global power structures, democratic backsliding, and economic interdependence. The faculty specialize in the areas of international relations and comparative politics. With a major in International Studies, students build critical skills and gain the knowledge needed to find their own path in making a meaningful impact on the world.
Academic Excellence
rough a combination of theoretical diversity, methodological rigor, and empirical breadth, a major in International Studies prepares students to thrive in a globalized economy and multicultural society.
Career Readiness
Our majors excel at experiential learning! They intern in Memphis, in other cities, and overseas, study abroad, engage in research, present at academic conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, participate in Model United Nations simulations, lead student organizations focused on global politics, and network in DC.
Impact & Purpose
Our alumni have become leaders in government and public service, education, business and finance, non-profits, and legal and policy fields. Our students have also won Fulbright grants, Watson Fellowships, and the Rhodes Scholarship and joined the Peace Corps.
Community & Support
Student testimonials consistently highlight faculty mentorship, intellectual rigor, and personal transformation. Graduates describe the department as demanding yet deeply supportive, a place where students learn to think critically and lead thoughtfully and compassionately in diverse environments.
Careers/ Perks / Alumni Success Section
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Rhodes Department News block
Rhodes College graduate Kynnedy Tuggle ’20 has been included in the Memphis Flyer’s newly released “20 Under 30” list, which honors individuals who are making a significant impact on the future of Memphis.
Anaya Bond ’27, who is pursuing an environmental sciences major and Africana studies minor, has been honored as one of the 2025 recipients of the SPARK Awards presented to those making a positive impact in the Greater Memphis community.
Dr. James R. Downing and Dr. Luther D. Ivory will receive honorary degrees at the 176th Commencement of Rhodes College on May 17. Downing is president and CEO of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Ivory retired in 2018 from Rhodes.
