RMIT Vietnam is expanding its academic offerings with a bachelor of international studies program, following its success at RMIT Australia. A university representative stated that young people are increasingly poised to become a global workforce, requiring international working capabilities and adaptability to contemporary changes.

A clear understanding of international studies is essential, as this field is often confused with related disciplines such as language, international relations, or diplomacy. While language plays a role in communication and external affairs, international relations focuses on economic and geopolitical issues between nations, and diplomacy is linked to a specific country's foreign policy.

International studies is an interdisciplinary field dedicated to researching global systems, policies, and processes. It also proposes solutions for international challenges, built upon a foundation of cultural, linguistic, and community understanding. This approach helps students develop systemic thinking and multi-dimensional perspectives.

Given its interdisciplinary nature, career opportunities for international studies graduates span diverse fields and organizations. These include: businesses, non-governmental organizations, consular and diplomatic agencies, and domestic and international media outlets. Potential roles encompass external relations specialists, market development managers, project managers, editors, communications specialists, trade promotion officers, translators, and interpreters.

RMIT Vietnam students during an interpreting practice session. Photo: RMIT Vietnam

The bachelor of international studies program at RMIT Vietnam features a flexible structure, combining three main majors and nine minors, alongside elective courses. The three main majors are language and international relations, development and social justice, and translation and interpreting. Students can choose one or two main majors, or combine them with minors to broaden their knowledge and skills according to individual interests. According to a university representative, this flexible structure ensures students are not limited to a single career path from the outset, allowing them to build a knowledge foundation adaptable to future labor market changes.

Doctor Le Xuan Quynh, head of the international studies department at RMIT Vietnam, emphasized that Vietnam is entering a new phase of international growth. This necessitates a workforce capable of understanding global systems, working across borders, and adapting to complex fluctuations.

"The bachelor of international studies program aims to train individuals capable of connecting cultures, organizations, and opportunities within an international context", he added.

RMIT Vietnam students on an exchange program at RMIT Australia. Photo: RMIT Vietnam

Through the program at RMIT Vietnam, students have opportunities to participate in study abroad exchanges at over 200 partner universities worldwide. They also experience an international learning environment within Vietnam, benefiting from modern facilities, a dedicated faculty, and a diverse multinational student community. Practical activities, such as projects with businesses and domestic and international competitions, are integrated throughout the curriculum. This helps students gain real-world experience, develop practical skills, and prepare for their future careers.

To provide additional information for parents and students about the new major, RMIT Vietnam will host an online seminar titled "Bachelor of International Studies - From Passion to a Global Career". The program will feature Doctor Le Xuan Quynh and other guests from related fields.

The online seminar "Bachelor of International Studies - From Passion to a Global Career" will take place from 9h to 10h on sunday, 5/4.

Nhat Le