Whether you’re interested in shaping policy, working across cultures or leading change on a global scale, this major will prepare you with the knowledge and real-world experience to make an impact. It’s a multidisciplinary major that gives you the tools to help solve pressing international issues like terrorism, human rights and environmental degradation.
The study of global affairs focuses on the relationships and interactions between countries, regions and non-state actors (such as nonprofits, businesses and governments) worldwide. Students will explore topics including diplomacy, trade, security and humanitarianism through courses from a wide range of disciplines such as political science, history, economics, sociology and geography. The study of global affairs is often framed through postcolonial and critical-theoretical lenses that criticize perspectives of eurocentrism and orientalism in traditional conceptual frameworks.
In the global economy, it’s essential to understand how economic and cultural factors influence international relations and cooperation. That’s why the course of study for this major includes core requirements in economics, political science and history while giving you the opportunity to select a regional or thematic concentration.
Students are encouraged to complement their coursework with a second major or a minor and participate in co-ops, internships and study abroad programs. A limited number of majors are accepted each year, and selection is competitive. Students who are interested in pursuing the major should apply to do so in the fall of their sophomore year.