The interdisciplinary Global Studies major fosters international awareness of the variety, complexity, and interconnectedness of modern populations ranging from ethnic groups to nation-states by exposing students to diverse disciplinary perspectives and encouraging international study abroad experience. The major includes a required Introduction to Global Studies, a broad selection of core courses in contemporary global issues across the curriculum, advanced study in foreign language, and a capstone global experience of the student's choice.
All courses used to complete the major must have grades of "C" or better.
Upon completion of this program a student is able to:
- Demonstrate the ability to identify, delineate, and critically analyze the principal concepts and intellectual frameworks of Global Studies.
- Recognize and evaluate the varied ways in which global cultural, social, economic, political, and technological forces shape the trajectories of collective groups and individuals.
- Establish informed positions on a wide range of contemporary global challenges – such as economic development, clashing cultures, environmental degradation, violence, and international terrorism – and defend their positions with logic and evidence.
- Recognize cultural differences that mark the world’s varied linguistic groups, nationalities, religions, and other distinct group identities.
- Evaluate the quality of arguments and evidence proffered by scholars, peers, public media, and themselves.
- Demonstrate improved oral and written communication skills.
I. Introduction to Global Studies
II. Global Experience
(Global Studies faculty advisor must approve.)
Global experiences may include:
- ***(Recommended)*** Study abroad (semester, faculty led short term, Fulbright or equivalent)
- A globally-themed internship or work study on or off campus. (GLBS 485: Internship in Global Studies)
- A globally-themed independent study, honors thesis or a project that " internationalizes the campus or community" (GLBS 450:Independent Study) (GLBS 450: Independent Study)
III. Second Language:
Second-semester competency required (successful completion of GRMN/FREN/SPAN/CHIN 102) or equivalent language placement exam.
IV. 3 out of 4 of the following:
V. Electives
Choose 16 elective credits from at least two of the Categories 1-6, including at least 2 courses at the 300 or 400 level.
All courses used to complete the major must have grades of "C" or better.