About the field of International Studies: International studies can cover a variety of issues related to the global community. International studies may focus on specific regions (such as area studies , African American studies , American studies , Latin American Studies , Middle Eastern studies , or Native studies ) or may focus on culture or populations on a world-wide scale. International studies can be intertwined with a number of different focuses in related fields including International Affairs , Business , Development , Education , Health , Relations , and Trade . Many programs in international studies will have elements of the program abroad that help students to gain the international perspective that is vital to such a degree. Understanding another culture can help students to broaden their horizons and gain an appreciation for the strength that can be gained through international cooperation. International studies degrees provide a unique opportunity to acquire such an understanding.