Global affairs are the issues that affect nations, peoples, economies and cultures worldwide. They encompass diplomacy, trade and security. They often involve a struggle over sovereignty and power between established and new nations.
The field of global affairs brings together the approaches of various disciplines, including international relations, history, political science, economics and sociology. The major equips you to understand and address the many challenges we face in a complex interdependent world.
Applicants for the global affairs major are strongly encouraged to take introductory courses in each of these fields early in their course planning. Students accepted into the major are held to the requirements that were in place when they were admitted, so it is important to complete them as soon as possible.
The senior requirement may be met through a capstone project in GLBL 4499, writing a senior essay in a seminar of their choosing or a class designated GLBL 4500 (global affairs senior essay). Students are encouraged to pursue an internship at a local, regional or global nonprofit organization as a means to enhance the academic experience and add a real-world dimension to their coursework. Up to two courses taken as part of an approved summer or term-time study abroad program may be counted toward the major with DUS approval.
As citizens and leaders of a globalizing world, we must make sure to understand and address the myriad challenges facing humanity. The broad disciplinary training you receive as a global affairs major equips you to confront the complexity of these challenges and to build bridges between scholarship and practice.