Program Overview

Introduction to the Major International Affairs (BIA) Program

The Major International Affairs (BIA) program at the University of St.Gallen is designed to equip students with a broad understanding of international affairs, enabling them to navigate the complexities of global politics, economics, and society. This program is part of the university's commitment to fostering "flexible generalists" who can adapt to various professional environments, from multinational corporations to international organizations and governmental institutions.

Curriculum Overview

The BIA curriculum is structured to provide students with a solid foundation in political science, economics, business administration, and law. The program consists of 120 credits and is typically completed within four semesters. It includes a combination of compulsory courses, elective modules, and a bachelor's thesis. Students have the flexibility to choose courses in either English or German, with the requirement to complete at least 9 ECTS credits in the contrasting language. This bilingual approach prepares students for careers in international environments where language skills are paramount.

Compulsory Courses

The compulsory part of the program (48 ECTS) covers fundamental subjects such as comparative politics, political theory, macroeconomics, international law, public management, quantitative methods, accounting, controlling, auditing, international relations, European governance, and international economics. These courses are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices that shape international affairs.

Elective Modules

In addition to the compulsory courses, students can choose from a range of elective modules (24 ECTS) that allow for specialization and deeper exploration of specific topics within international affairs. These modules are categorized into "Integrated Fundamentals" and "Global Challenges," enabling students to develop both a broad and a specialized knowledge base.

Integrated Fundamentals

These modules build upon the foundational knowledge acquired in the compulsory courses, fostering an integrated understanding of political, economic, and social issues. Examples include development economics, international management, environmental economics, and public policy analysis.

Global Challenges

This category of modules focuses on specific global challenges, encouraging students to think critically about complex problems and their potential solutions. Modules may cover topics such as intergenerational fairness, global water governance, and the politics of climate change.

Bachelor's Thesis

The bachelor's thesis (12 ECTS) is a research project that allows students to delve into a topic of their choice within the field of international affairs. Under the supervision of a faculty member, students develop their research skills, critically analyze existing literature, and contribute to the academic discourse in their selected area of study.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the BIA program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in international affairs, including positions in multinational corporations, international organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, and academia. The program's emphasis on developing a broad skill set, combined with the opportunity for specialization, makes BIA graduates highly competitive in the job market.

Further Education

The BIA program also serves as a solid foundation for further academic pursuits, particularly in the fields of international affairs and governance. Many graduates choose to continue their studies in master's programs, such as the Master in International Affairs and Governance (MIA) or the Master in International Law (MIL) offered by the University of St.Gallen. These advanced degrees can further enhance career prospects and open up additional opportunities in leadership and specialized roles within international organizations and institutions.

Conclusion

The Major International Affairs (BIA) program at the University of St.Gallen offers a unique and comprehensive education in international affairs, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Through its structured curriculum and flexible elective options, the program prepares students for successful careers in a rapidly changing global environment. Whether pursuing a career in the private sector, public service, or academia, graduates of the BIA program are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and adaptability required to excel in international affairs.