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Comparative Culture and Identity (CCI)

“A CORD worker, dressed in purple, sits down with a village microfinance group to make sure it is on track. Through these groups, women can access necessary credit to support their families and start businesses,” Nina Bhattacharya, Minor International Studies ‘12

In this sub-plan, students take courses that help them understand the global richness of behavioral, literary, and artistic expressions reflecting the diversity of the human experience. Among the topics covered are theories of culture, theories of identity, comparative belief systems and societal organizations, nationalism, comparative literary and film traditions, comparative ideologies, colonialism and post-colonialism, global arts, comparative gender studies, and cultural transmission.

Language Requirement: Sixth term proficiency.

Core Courses (7 credits):

  • INTLSTD 301: Topics in International Studies
  • INTLSTD 401: International Studies Advanced Seminar

Methods of CCI (3 credits): At least one course chosen from the following list:

  • ANTHRCUL 222: The Comparative Study of Cultures
  • COMPLIT 322: Translating World Literatures
  • SOC 310: Introduction to Research Methods

Note: Completion of the Methods requirement is recommended prior to enrolling in INTLSTD 301.

Regional Course (3 credits): One geographic emphasis course devoted to a single world region or country that is related to foreign language of study.

CCI Courses (12 credits): Four courses, chosen from an approved list, to gain knowledge in sub-plan area.

  • Globalization and Culture: One course chosen from the following list:
  1. INTLSTD 205: What is History?
  2. ROMLANG/HIST/JUDAIC 253: The Mediterranean: History and Culture
  3. COMPLIT 240: Literature Across Borders
  • At least one course must be at the 400 level.
  • Must include at least two academic subjects.

Note: Approved sub-plan course lists may be found on the PICS Courses page.

Three electives (9 credits): The electives are designed to allow students to further personalize their major. Students will elect three advanced courses which will be expected to build upon the theme of their sub-plans. The selected courses should thus contribute to the coherence of the student’s overall concentration. Students may select additional sub-plan, regional, or relevant study abroad courses, however there is no preapproved list of electives. Because there is no preapproved list, students must seek and obtain the approval of elective courses—on a course-by-course basis — from a PICS advisor. It is strongly advised that this approval be obtained before taking the class.

Donia Human Rights Fellows Program

The Donia Human Rights Center (DHRC) is pleased to offer the Donia Human Rights Fellows Program to U-M undergraduate juniors and seniors who have declared a major in International Studies and who have demonstrated their interest in and commitment to the study and practice of human rights during their time at the University of Michigan.