Global Studies Concentration

Students in the Global Studies concentration study a variety of subjects and themes in an international context, including artistic, cultural, political and economic patterns among and within other nations. Advanced language study is an integral component of Global Studies. Students may choose to focus their studies on one or more world regions or specific themes. Students who complete the program earn a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences (IAS) with a concentration in Global Studies.

Global Studies Concentration student learning outcomes

• Students will develop knowledge of human cultures through the study of the humanities, social sciences, languages and the arts.
• Students will be able to engage in cultural and cross-cultural inquiry, analysis and critiques of historical, political and literary texts.
• Students will develop a broad understanding of contemporary global issues and be able to situate them in a theoretical framework
• Students will have a basic knowledge of world history and the way history of specific regions overlaps to form recognizable cultural patterns.
• Students will be aware of the value of interdisciplinary and multicultural approaches to the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge.
• Students will develop their ability to communicate orally and in writing with style and precision.
• Students will become proficient in a second language and be aware of the ways that culture shapes meaning.
• Students will have the intellectual tools, skills and knowledge to be engaged and knowledgeable citizens in a rapidly changing world.
• Students will acquire and develop skills to enable them to be lifelong learners.

Career Options

Students of Global Studies pursue careers in government, business, nonprofit management, the media, education, and international law. Depending on the focus students choose, they may pursue graduate studies in related world areas or disciplines.

Global Studies Concentration degree requirements

For a B.A. in IAS with a concentration in Global Studies, you need to complete a minimum of 50 credits, depending on foreign language competency. Overall, 30 credits of upper-division credits in the concentration and 45 credits of School of IAS courses are required to meet the degree requirements. Additionally, at least 5 credits must be from two interdisciplinary areas: Visual, Literary and Performing Arts (VLPA) and Individuals and Society (I&S). You must earn a total of 180 quarter credits, or 225 quarter credits for a double degree, to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in your chosen major.

For questions about how the B.A. in IAS with a Global Studies concentration will work for you, contact an academic advisor or one of the Global Studies concentration coordinators, Teaching Professor Cynthia Howson and Associate Professor Johann Reusch.