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Science, Technology, and International Affairs Major

Address the most pressing challenges of a technology‑driven world.

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Major Overview

Launching in Fall 2026, the Science, Technology, and International Affairs (STIA) major equips you to tackle the world’s most pressing global challenges by applying cutting-edge science to complex political, social, and ethical issues. By combining science with international affairs, the STIA major prepares you to explore the technological and scientific issues driving today’s global conversations.

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Assistant Teaching Professor Rowan Ellis

Curricular Field Chair

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Morgan Fisher

Curricular Dean

Quick Links

Program at a Glance

Skills you’ll learn

What you can accomplish

Degree requirements

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Why Study STIA At-a-Glance

Now more than ever, science and technology are at the heart of international affairs. This major equips students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to engage with these challenges and opportunities.

STIA majors graduate with a combination of scientific knowledge, technical expertise, and understanding of global challenges, preparing you to lead where science and technology intersect with global policy.

3

Science fundamentals

1

STIA gateway course

1

Methods course

4

Electives

View degree requirements

Career Paths

Students who choose the STIA major will be prepared to work in government agencies, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector, with specialist skills in climate, technology, and/or energy policy.

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Declaring Your Major

You will declare your major during the first semester of your sophomore year in consultation with your advisor. When declaring a major, you will prepare a proposal outlining the reasons why you want to pursue the STIA major and how it aligns with your academic interests and career goals.

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Skills You’ll Learn in the STIA Major

Communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and persuasively
Build a versatile skill set for careers in international development, government agencies, global health organizations, and beyond
Learn scientific theory and practice through a laboratory-based science sequence
Develop multidisciplinary expertise in a concentration area
Incorporate scientific knowledge and methods into the study of international affairs
Engage with groundbreaking research and collaborate with experts to find innovative solutions to challenges like climate change, energy, and cybersecurity

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