The Department of Global Studies offers interdisciplinary approaches to human wellbeing. We are inspired by human-centered approaches to development and globalization, with an emphasis on both theory and practice. Throughout the department, we focus on bottom-up approaches to problem solving rather than top-down policy promotion, and our research-active faculty focus on integrating cutting edge scholarship with innovative solutions to pressing real-world issues.
School of Global Studies and Languages Commencement Ceremony
Sunday, June 15th, 2025
10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
East Campus Green
of students in our major have a dedicated faculty mentor to advise on career goals
What you can do with a degree in Global Studies
A Global Studies degree can lead to a variety of career fields. From media to politics, government, the non-profit sector, and tourism, Global Studies prepares students to step into the career of their dreams well-equipped with the necessary experience to be successful.
How Global Studies Jump-Starts Your Career
"As a Global Studies major focusing on Global Health, I learned a lot about social determinants of health and the poor health outcomes some vulnerable populations face. Around 80% of the patients at the clinic where I work are Spanish speaking only, and I would guess around 40% of my patients are undocumented immigrants from Latin America or refugees from around the world. Global Studies taught me a lot about cultural humility, which has been extremely helpful in my work as a primary care provider."
—Annika Hearn, Global Studies, '15
Our Degree Programs
After gaining a solid foundation in global skills and knowledge from our core courses, students do a deep dive into their preferred professional concentration. Students may choose electives from every department and school across campus to complete their major and can tailor their coursework to best meet their own career aspirations.
Learn from Experts in the Field
Every student in our major has a faculty mentor whose research aligns with the student’s interests. Students are encouraged to conduct original research, either as part of an ongoing faculty project or working on a thesis. Our faculty are seasoned field researchers with community connections and language proficiency in at least one language other than English.
Interest areas include:
- Detention as a determinant of immigrant health in the U.S.
- Food systems and agroecological transitions in Oregon
- Environmental justice and indigenous rights in Bolivia
- How lifestyle, nutrition and social structures shape physical and mental health around the world
Get Real-world Experience
Students can draw on our faculty’s extensive networks, both domestic and international, to choose an immersive, intercultural experience that ties their coursework together with their career aspirations. These range from study or internships abroad to an internship with a local organization right here in Eugene.
Experiential learning can include:
- Volunteering at a food bank
- Working with shelters and medical outreach for the houseless
- Refugee and immigrant support programs
- Participating in accessibility projects for persons with disabilities
Scholarships and Funding
The Department of Global Studies offers the Judy Fosdick-Oliphant Scholarship and the Oregon Consular Corps Scholarship to undergraduate students. For graduate students, we offer a variety of funding opportunities, from the Gary E. Smith Professional Development Scholarship to the George and Conni Slape Fellowship.
Academic Support
Faculty and staff work closely with Tykeson College and Career Advising to provide seamless support for students academically, personally and professionally. Every major student has a faculty mentor who is available to meet for career and academic planning. The department communicates regularly with students through newsletters, social media and timely updates.
