Sections
Global Studies Minor
Thematic Areas
Global Studies minors choose one of seven thematic areas within which to focus their studies. Students take 9 hours of coursework within a track. All coursework must be 200-level to 400-level coursework. At least 6 hours must be taken at the advanced level (300- and 400-level). The specific courses are chosen in consultation with their Global Studies academic advisor. Students must take courses from more than one discipline. Thematic Areas are described below.
Cultures in Contact
Explores the challenges of migrating people and the consequences of divergent socio-cultural beliefs and lifestyles as a function of race, nationalism, religion, and gender. In this area, students learn about local and global identities, evolving local and global culture through contact, cultural diversity, multiculturalism, difference and conflict, and conflict resolution through tolerance, policy, social action. View course list
Human Rights
Concentrates on identifying inequities among and within societies, understanding the bases of these inequities, considering a universal standard of human rights, as well as an individual’s rights and responsibilities in defining and working towards a just society. Students take courses to enhance their understanding of social differences and consequences of those differences, legal and ethical responses, and advocacy skills. View course list
Wealth and Poverty in a Globalized World
Focuses on the reasons for and the consequences of resource distribution and re-distribution, and the challenges it presents for peoples and governments. Students take courses to develop an understanding of international trade, development, and how they impact and are impacted by political and social factors. View course list
Governance, Conflict and Resolution
Allows students to develop an interdisciplinary perspective on international relations, world order, conflict, security, conflict resolution and diplomacy. Students take courses to build a solid understanding of society-level conflict, its origins and outcomes, as well as strategies in managing and avoiding conflict. View course list
Environment, Sustainability, and Social Responsibility
Presents topics on local-global environmental conditions, opportunities and challenges in sustaining healthy environments, as well as social responsibility for sustainability. Students take courses to familiarize themselves with environmental issues and concerns, the politics of conservation and social response to environmental concerns. View course list
Knowledge, Communication and Information Systems
Provides an understanding of communication systems and how they impact global processes, especially the development of knowledge and information systems. Students may take courses in linguistics, speech communication, journalism, media studies, communications, computer science, informatics, library science, education, tourism, and business. View course list
Global Health
Introduces students to the disparate health conditions, practices and healthcare systems across cultures. Students take courses in sociology, community health, ethics, and other disciplines to learn of global health concerns including the spread of disease, aging populations, public health and policy. View course list
