Bachelor's in International Studies

The Role of Political Psychology in Diplomacy

Fundamentally, psychology is focused on better understanding the human mind and human behavior. Political psychology seeks to apply the same principle to the world of politics, examining the interplay between how people think, feel, and act — and the impact that has on how they approach political considerations. Through political psychology, individuals can gain deeper insight into different political ideologies, personalities, and policies — both for the public and political figures. What is political psychology? While political science typically focuses on institutions and systems of governance, political psychology is more interested in understanding individual motivations and behaviors. Much of the […]

Student’s Guide to the Economy: Microeconomics vs. Macroeconomics

Global markets instinctively respond to events impacting the economy, such as natural disasters, economic recessions, and pandemics. The rules and principles of two interdependent categories of economics — microeconomics and macroeconomics — govern economies of all sizes. To learn more, check out the infographic below, created by Maryville University’s online Bachelor of Arts in International Studies program. Microeconomics vs. Macroeconomics: What’s the Difference? Microeconomics and macroeconomics are two distinct categories of economics that complement each other. Key Terms to Know Microeconomics is the study of individual and business decisions regarding the allocation of resources and prices of goods and services. The term also […]

International Studies vs. International Relations: What’s the Difference

The world is getting smaller every day. The technological advancements of communications and travel over the past 100 years have resulted in a truly global economy, with nearly every country directly or indirectly relying on each other for goods and services. Servers around the world store terabytes of data, each enough to fill millions of books. Computers — smartphones, supercomputers, etc. — capable of accessing that information are available everywhere from corporations to people’s pockets. Even the most insulated countries recognize that going it alone in the 21st century is certain to end in disaster, because the issues that plague […]

International Studies vs. Political Science: Which Degree Is Right for You?

The professional world is more connected than ever thanks to evolving technology and social media. Current events are now shared in real-time, creating both challenges and opportunities across increasingly linked societies. In today’s global economy, professionals with an interest in world culture can prove to be highly valuable to organizations in nearly every industry. There are several educational paths available to future professionals intrigued by current events and global culture, including international studies and political science. These two social sciences share many similarities, but the difference between international studies and political science lies in the specific expertise and skill sets. […]

Helping Out on Different Scales: NGOs vs. Nonprofits

Across the globe, millions of organizations are making the world a better place. They work in major cities and remote areas — in some of the wealthiest nations on Earth, as well as some of the poorest. These organizations assist individuals, small businesses, communities, and governments. They work in medicine, education, public health, human rights, foreign policy, environmental protection, and more. Nonprofits and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) play an influential role in both local and global affairs. They range from massive, multinational organizations with thousands of employees and many more volunteers to grassroots movements in a single neighborhood. Though NGOs and […]

Humanitarian Aid Worker: How to Craft a Career Assisting with Global Issues

Tables of Contents What Is a Humanitarian? How to Become a Humanitarian Aid Worker Humanitarian Aid Workers Salary Human Rights Issues Today Best Humanitarian Organizations There is no greater calling than to work saving and protecting human lives. The number of people in need will explode in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. David Beasley, executive director of the World Food Programme, states that the crisis has created a “hunger pandemic” that amounts to a “humanitarian and food catastrophe.” Farmers’ organizations and the largest food companies in the world warn that food supplies across the globe will be “massively disrupted” […]

How to Work for the U.N.

International cooperation is more necessary than ever before. The connectivity of cultures around the globe has been increasing throughout human existence, from small, isolated tribes to today’s hyper-connected society. People can travel from almost any country to another to experience different cultures, languages, foods, and traditions. Governments also trade many types of goods and services, make investments in other countries, and create more global connections. What Is the United Nations? Founded in 1945 in the wake of World War II, the United Nations began with 51 member states dedicated to preserving world peace after the greatest armed conflict ever seen. […]