The School of International Studies and Languages is your pathway to the global skills needed to succeed in today’s world. Whether you’re interested in learning a new language, studying abroad, exploring international careers, or understanding global issues, we offer the programs and opportunities to help you get there.
The school connects students to real-world experiences through study abroad, international internships, and hands-on global learning—right here in Ohio and around the world. We make international education more accessible by guiding students toward flexible programs that fit their schedules, majors and budgets.
Our faculty and alumni work across the globe, opening doors to research, networking, and career pathways in business, health care, law, education, and more.
Launch Your Career through International Studies and Languages
Global skills open doors. In today’s interconnected world, employers across business, health care, law, engineering, technology, and education are looking for professionals who can think globally, communicate across cultures, and adapt to international environments.
A background in international studies and foreign languages gives you a competitive edge — allowing you to stand out in the job market and preparing you for a career that takes you anywhere.
At the School of International Studies and Languages, students gain real-world experience through global internships, hands-on learning opportunities, and internationally focused coursework that connect them to careers in Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, NGOs, research institutions, and more.
Our alumni apply their language proficiency, cultural understanding, and global perspective in industries that shape the future — whether negotiating international business deals, developing global health solutions, or leading engineering projects across borders.
No matter your major, international studies and languages can be your launchpad to a successful career.
Add International Credentials to Your Resume
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Graduate Degrees & Certificates
The School of International Studies and Languages master's degrees and graduate certificates provide a wide range of interdisciplinary subject areas for students who wish to explore international studies.
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Undergraduate Degrees & Certificates
The School of International Studies and Languages bachelor's degrees and undergraduate certificates provide a wide range of interdisciplinary subject areas for students who wish to add an international dimension to their studies.
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Languages
Studying a new language helps you navigate both local and global landscapes. It not only broadens your horizons but also significantly strengthens your resume, making you a more competitive candidate in a wide range of careers, whether in your home country or on an international stage.
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Study Abroad
The Office of Global Opportunities (OGO) connects students with global opportunities and study abroad experiences that include faculty-led programs for OHIO credit, exchange programs, destinations offered through our affiliates, as well as virtual experiences.
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International Internships
An international internship is more than just work experience—it’s a life-changing opportunity to build your career while immersing yourself in a new culture.
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Certifications and Modules
Ohio University offers flexible, skills-based training programs designed for professionals looking to advance their careers in education, language instruction, and global communication.
Explore Departments Within the School
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Center for International StudiesThe Center for International Studies trains students to become empathetic and curious global problem solvers and changemakers who understand complex challenges in context.
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Modern Languages DepartmentModern Languages students explore languages as a bridge across cultures. They acquire the skills to communicate effectively, to understand the human experience, and to serve and lead others with tolerance and empathy.
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Linguistics DepartmentLinguistics students build a strong foundation for careers in hearing, speech, and language sciences, bilingual education, translation and interpretation, forensic studies, cognitive science, anthropology, philosophy, and artificial intelligence.
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Ohio Program of Intensive EnglishThe Ohio Program of Intensive English is one of the leading English language programs in the United States. Students come from all over the world to improve their English, prepare for academic study, and learn U.S. culture.
Preliminary Southeast Ohio Industry & Employer Convening on Global Workforce Readiness
Contact Us
Dr. Haley Duschinski is the director of the School of International Studies and Languages. Contact her at duschins@ohio.edu or 740-593-0823 .
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Mission
The OHIO School of International Studies and Languages advances global understanding through education, research, and engagement. The school prepares individuals and communities to navigate an interconnected world by fostering cultural awareness, multilingual proficiency, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through these efforts, the school develops innovative solutions to global challenges and strengthens connections between local and global communities.
Vision
The OHIO School of International Studies and Languages serves as a transformative hub, integrating international studies and language programs into one cohesive unit. By combining OHIO's historic strengths in area studies, international education, and languages, the school operates as a convener—bridging Southeast Ohio and the world through local and global research, capacity building, and community engagement.
The school is committed to advancing excellence in teaching, research and engagement. We expand experiential opportunities at home and abroad, coordinate interdisciplinary collaborations to drive innovation, and actively engage with community and global partners to address critical challenges. These efforts elevate Ohio University's profile as a leader in international education and innovation, for the benefit of the region, the state and the nation.
In alignment with OHIO's Dynamic Strategy, the school pursues this vision through a strategy organized around three pillars.
Inspiring Global Leadership and Innovation
The school aspires to become a beacon of excellence in international education, preparing students to lead with confidence in a rapidly globalizing world. By fostering curiosity, critical thinking and innovation, we aim to equip students with the tools necessary to navigate complex global systems and address the pressing challenges of our time. Our vision is to cultivate globally minded leaders who contribute meaningful solutions across borders and disciplines, inspiring progress and change in their communities and beyond.
Advancing Intercultural Understanding and Collaboration
At the heart of our vision lies a commitment to bridging cultural differences and fostering a spirit of inclusivity and mutual respect. Through immersive learning, multilingual proficiency, and interdisciplinary research, we strive to create opportunities for transformative engagement with diverse cultures and perspectives. By connecting Southeast Ohio to the world and bringing global perspectives to our campus, we aim to serve as a hub for intercultural dialogue and collaboration, enriching the academic and personal lives of our students, faculty, and community.
Driving Impact Through Partnerships and Innovation
The school leads groundbreaking initiatives in research, education and community engagement, becoming a trusted partner to local and global stakeholders. By securing strategic partnerships, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and expanding experiential learning opportunities, we seek to position the school as a driving force in shaping solutions to global challenges. This vision includes strengthening Ohio University’s reputation as a leader in international education while contributing to a more just, equitable, and interconnected world.