College of International Studies
Learn Today, Lead Tomorrow
The College of International Studies creates and prepares future leaders for Iraq and the world. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum that examines international and political issues within specific geographical, cultural, historical, economic, philosophical, and social contexts students gain the insights and critical thinking skills that will serve them well in a variety of professions. The international studies degree is a passport to work in government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations (like the UN), international businesses (multinational corporations), and the military, among others. An AUIB international studies degree also prepares students, if they choose, to continue their studies at a graduate level in the United States, Iraq, or other countries. College of International Studies students receive a well-rounded education that helps them view the world with an open mind and a keen perspective.
As a student at the College of International studies you will learn from experienced and internationally prominent scholars and teachers representing some of the finest educational institutions in the world. Their expertise encompasses a variety of regional and topical issues. You will hone debate and negotiation skills through practical and theoretical training. You will have opportunities to meet and interact with distinguished officials and leaders from around the world in person and virtually. Your experience will be unparalleled in Iraq.
Start your journey to success in the world of international relations. Apply to our Bachelor of International Studies program – a world of opportunities for you.
Degrees offered by College of International Studies
Welcome to the College of International Studies
As a student in the College of International Studies (CIS) you will interact with recognized scholars and professionals from around the world to prepare you to navigate the exciting and complex field of international relations. Whether you choose to follow a career path in diplomacy, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations, academia; or if you wish to apply your knowledge in the private sector such as think tanks and research institutions, CIS will provide you the practical and theoretical knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in Iraq or abroad.
What You Get
- Employment Assets: CIS seeks to provide internships with governmental, non-governmental and international organizations to give you real world experience.
- Practical Learning: CIS provides opportunities to hone negotiation and debate skills through local and international competitions. You also will learn proper research methodology and may participate in studies by internationally recognized scholars.
- Expert Faculty: You will benefit from experienced and internationally prominent scholars and teachers representing some of the finest educational institutions in the world.
- Global Perspective: CIS provides area specific instruction allowing you to explore issues and cultures around the globe.
Your Career Opportunities
The AUIB Bachelor of International Studies leads to a variety of career paths. As fluent speakers of English and Arabic with an International Studies degree, you have numerous employment and post-graduation career options.
- Diplomacy – Diplomats represent the interests of their home countries or agencies in unilateral and multilateral settings. A career in diplomacy can include serving in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at home or abroad, working for multinational agencies like the UN or regional organizations, or working in a foreign mission in Iraq as a local professional.
- NGOs – NGOs, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, operate globally and require experts with cultural and political knowledge to guide their relations with governments and other international agencies.
- Multinational Corporations – In the complex world of global business, companies need knowledgeable experts who are capable of and comfortable with operating in diverse regions.
- Think Tanks and Consulting Agencies – In an increasingly globalized and technologically advanced world, there are both risks and opportunities. Private entities such as think tanks and consulting firms require knowledgeable staff who can conduct research and provide reports to governments and private firms to minimize risks and maximize benefits.
- Academia – If your goal is to pursue an advanced degree (master’s or doctorate) in any aspect of international studies, CIS provides you a solid grounding in theoretical and substantive knowledge and will guide you in your search for the right university in your field of interest.
Your Choice
- Networking: CIS staff can offer opportunities to interact with a diverse range of organizations and individuals who can help you achieve your goals.
- Personalized Support: CIS faculty provide one-on-one guidance and counseling.
- Innovation and Adaptability: CIS faculty stay abreast of current events and contemporary developments in methodology to insure you receive the finest instruction in international studies.
Your Future. Your Success.
Start your journey to success in the world of international relations and diplomacy. Apply to our Bachelor of International Studies program – a world of opportunities for you!
Our Focus
We have the ambition to become a leading academic and intellectual center in Iraq, the Middle East and beyond.
Explore Degrees & Programs
Mission Statement for the College of International Studies:
The Bachelor’s degree in International Relations & Security Studies at the American University of Iraq-Baghdad is a multidisciplinary program designed to prepare undergraduate students with the academic knowledge, cross-cultural awareness, theoretical and historical background, analytical tools, and diplomatic skills needed to thrive and lead in global society. Through a wide range of International-oriented courses as well as discipline-relevant specializations and practical training, the BA in IR&SS promotes leadership, global citizenship, social responsibility, and human and societal security, via a blending of the proven pedagogies, rigorous standards, time-tested traditions, and innovative intellectual approaches of Iraq and the US.
Introduction and Structure:
The College of International Studies currently offers a BA in International Relations and Strategic Studies (BA in IR&SS). In addition to the requirements for the IR&SS program, students must complete the university’s “general education” requirements (the Liberal Arts & Humanities Core), which is the same for all undergraduate programs at AUIB. The table below lays out the university’s Core Liberal Arts & Humanities required classes (14 in total).
Breakdown of courses (120 credits)
- 14 Liberal Arts core courses (see choices listed below: Includes 2 HIS and 1 GEO course): [42 credits]
- 20 Courses: Core Requirements for the IR&SS Program [60 credits]
- 6 Major Elective courses [18 credits]
| Year | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Requirements | Year | Credits |
| UNI 101 First Year Experience | 1 | 3 |
| HIS 101 Civilizations and History I | 1 | 3 |
| HIS 102 Civilizations and History II | 1 | 3 |
| HUM 101 Introduction to Humanities | 1 | 3 |
| LIT 101 Introduction to World Literature | 1 | 3 |
| PHI 101 Introduction to Ethics | 1 | 3 |
| POL 125 American Culture | 1 | 3 |
| PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology | 1 | 3 |
| POL 112 Globalization & World Politics | 1 | 3 |
| SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology | 1 | 3 |
| MIS 101 Introduction to Management Information Systems | 1 | 3 |
| COM 101 Introduction to Communications | 1 | 3 |
| FIN 101 Finance for Non-Business Students | 1 | 3 |
| ECO 101 History of Economic Thought | 1 | 3 |
| BIO 101 Introductory Biology | 1 | 3 |
| PHY 105 Descriptive Astronomy | 1 | 3 |
| GEO 101 Introduction to Geography | 1 | 3 |
| CHE 100 Chemistry in Our Life | 1 | 3 |
| CSC 101 Introduction to Computer Science | 1 | 3 |
| MAT 102 Pre-calculus | 1 | 3 |
| MAT 101 College Algebra | 1 | 3 |
| MAT 111 Calculus and Analytic Geometry I | 1 | 3 |
| POL 101 Intro to Politics | 1 | 3 |
| POL 111 Classical Political Thought | 1 | 3 |
| POL 112 Globalization & World Politics | 1 | 3 |
| POL 140 Comparative Politics | 1 | 3 |
| POL 142 Identity Politics | 1 | 3 |
| POL 191 Global Climate Change | 1 | 3 |
| POL 125 American Culture, Politics, & Society | 1 | 3 |
| POL 127 Modern American History | 1 | 3 |
| ENL 210 Intro to Public Speaking | 2 | 3 |
| ENL 201 Academic Writing | 2 | 3 |
| HIS 201 Iraqi Studies | 2 | 3 |
| PHA 210 Introduction to Global Health | 2 | 3 |
| HUM 201 Introduction to Human Geography | 2 | 3 |
| ENV 201 Introduction to Environmental Science | 2 | 3 |
| POL 214 Post-Colonialism | 2 | 3 |
| POL 219 Colloquium on Machiavelli | 2 | 3 |
| POL 221 Intro to International Security | 2 | 3 |
| POL 230 International Political Economy | 2 | 3 |
| POL 240 International Organization | 2 | 3 |
| POL 227 World War I | 2 | 3 |
| POL 245 Creation & Evolution of the European Union | 2 | 3 |
| POL 250/Law 240 International Law | 2 | 3 |
| POL 255 Iraqi Politics | 2 | 3 |
| POL 262 Modern Russia | 2 | 3 |
| POL 263 Hungary: Socioeconomic History, Politics, and Culture | 2 | 3 |
| POL 264 France: Socioeconomic History, Politics, and Culture | 2 | 3 |
| POL 265: Canadian Foreign and Defense Policy | 2 | 3 |
| POL 266 Modern African Politics | 2 | 3 |
| POL 267 Latin American Politics | 2 | 3 |
| POL 268 Politics and History of Central Asia | 2 | 3 |
| POL 272 Afghanistan: Socioeconomic History, Politics, and Culture | 2 | 3 |
| POL 273/PSY 272: Political Psychology | 2 | 3 |
| POL 283 Colloquium on Diplomacy and Practice | 2 | 3 |
| POL 285 International Human Rights | 2 | 3 |
| POL 286 Mediation and Negotiation | 2 | 3 |
| HIS 341 Eastern Civilizations & History | 3 | 3 |
| HIS 350 Main Currents in Global History | 3 | 3 |
| POL 311 Modern Political Thought | 3 | 3 |
| POL 312 International: Theory and Practice | 3 | 3 |
| POL 340 The UN and the EU | 3 | 3 |
| POL 350 Research Methods | 3 | 3 |
| POL 392 PPP Internship: Policy, Participation, Practice | 3 | 3 |
| POL 307 American Politics & Culture through Film | 3 | 3 |
| ENL 309/POL 309 Political Literature of the 1930s | 3 | 3 |
| POL 313/SOC 313 Political Sociology | 3 | 3 |
| POL 349 Politics & Literature of George Orwell | 3 | 3 |
| POL 404 Professional Development Seminar | 4 | 3 |
| POL 405 Leadership Management Seminar | 4 | 3 |
| POL 491 Senior Thesis Project I | 4 | 3 |
| POL 492 Senior Thesis Project II | 4 | 3 |
As a place of learning and dialogue on important ideas, we take inspiration from the venerable tradition of Baghdad’s ancient House of Wisdom, where politicians and philosophers would meet to discuss important public problems and potential solutions. We strive to build on this ancient tradition and strive to help students obtain a modern education of the highest caliber.
Download the College of International Studies curriculum here or search the full AUIB Course Catalog below.
Download 2024 International Studies Curriculum
Course Catalog
Welcome to the comprehensive course catalogue of The American University of Iraq – Baghdad (AUIB).
Our institution takes pride in offering a diverse array of academic programs, spanning across eight distinct colleges. As you embark on your educational journey, our course offerings encompass a rich tapestry of knowledge and opportunities. Explore our 20 programs meticulously designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s dynamic professional landscape.
From the arts and sciences to business, pharmacy, dentistry, and beyond, our commitment to excellence in education is reflected in each program’s curriculum. Whether you aspire to delve into the intricacies of healthcare technology, unravel the mysteries of the natural world, or cultivate business acumen, our colleges provide a supportive and enriching environment. We invite you to peruse this catalogue and discover the educational pathways that align with your passions and ambitions. At AUIB, we are dedicated to fostering a learning experience that transcends boundaries, preparing you for success in an ever-changing global landscape.
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