Faculty:

• Roni Kay O’Dell, Ph.D.
• Jessica Brzyski, Ph.D.
• Michael Cary, Ph.D.
• Susan Eichenberger, Ph.D.
• Debra Faszer McMahan, Ph.D.
• Jennifer Jones, Ph.D.
• Lyzona Marshall, Ph.D.
• James Paharik, Ph.D.

Successful careers in a globalized world require mastery of intercultural communication and a deep understanding of how international actors work with each other on trade, development, and shared policy. Such skills are highly desired in every industry. The Global Studies major has an international focus that connects students with the broader world and introduces them to a deep understanding of other languages, cultures, religions, and government systems. Students develop competencies in intercultural communication, policy analysis, critical thinking, policymaking, and design. The Global Studies major embraces social justice and encourages students to address the world’s ills, including poverty and conflict.

Students choose from one of three specializations:

1. Human Rights, Peace, and Justice
2. Environment and Sustainability
3. Social Entrepreneurship

Learning Objectives: Global Studies

1. Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of globalization
2. Enhance intercultural competency
3. Develop foreign language proficiency
4. Apply policy analysis to the assessment of global politics and events
5. Demonstrate professional comprehension of government and international, intergovernmental, and non-profit organizations working on varied global topics
6. Assess global issues, including the impact of varied social, political, and economic systems
7. Impact the world via globally relevant internships and study abroad

All candidates for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Global Studies must complete the Liberal Arts Curriculum requirements, the required courses for the major, and the capstone assessment requirement.

The capstone assessment consists of the successful completion of a showcase portfolio. The portfolio includes reflective essays and sample assignments to demonstrate that the student has met each of the global studies learning objectives as well as an additional integrative essay discussing the relationship of the major to the University’s liberal arts learning objectives.

A minimum of 120 credits is required.