One of the three pillars of our university's vision seeks to be "globally engaged". Global and International studies offers a broad, integrative approach to the study of global and international issues. The program is supported by the methods and theories of different disciplines, by language study, and through regional area expertise. It houses a family of interdisciplinary focus fields devoted to the study of global and international issues and major regions and cultures of the world, offering one undergraduate major and four minors. Course offerings for these programs are primarily in the College of Arts and Sciences, although other colleges may provide appropriate courses.
The global and international studies major is also designed to maximize opportunities for international study abroad and academic experiences outside of the United States. Extensive world language study is required in the major; and, although the minors can be completed without world language courses, most students include some in their programs, as appropriate. With advisor approval, courses taken at colleges and universities through study abroad, either in English or in other languages, may be integrated into the program requirements.
Students completing this major often seek employment in international business, government service or work with international organizations. Many students seek a second major with a world language.
Our minor programs include:
- Asian studies
- Global and international studies
- Latinx and Latin American studies
- Modern European studies
Students interested in area studies minors may also be interested in the Canadian studies minor offered through the Department of World Languages and Literatures.
Advising
Given the interdisciplinary nature of the program, it is very important that students work regularly with program advisors. Information about career choices, internships, graduate programs and second majors is also available from our office.
Academic Standards
Students must earn at least a grade of "C" in all courses counted for their major/minor.
Baccalaureate Writing Requirement
Students who have chosen a global and international studies major will satisfy the Baccalaureate Writing Requirement by successfully completing GIST 4900 - Senior Capstone Seminar in Global and International Studies.