Global Studies

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.

100%
of our students participate in a hands-on learning experience, via study abroad or internships
23%
First-generation students
100%

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.

Annika Hearn

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
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
Student boxing lettuce on farm
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.

Hands-on 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 & 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.

Undergraduate Scholarships
Graduate Funding

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.

Undergraduate Advising
Support for Graduate Students

Global Studies News and Events

December 14, 2022
SCHOOL OF GLOBAL STUDIES & LANGUAGES - When Raimy Khalife-Hamdan was 5 years old, she and her family hurriedly left south Lebanon, escaping the bombs of the just-ignited 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war. Images of the conflict stalked her childhood dreams.
May 25, 2021
BIOLOGY, LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES, GLOBAL STUDIES - Two UO students have been awarded prestigious Udall Undergraduate Scholarships, a first for the university and all the more rare because it is the second award for one of the Ducks.

All news »


Let's Talk - Wednesday 2-4PM
Mar22
Let's Talk - Wednesday 2-4PM Mar 22 Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center
Let's Talk - Thursday 2-4PM
Mar23
Let's Talk - Thursday 2-4PM Mar 23 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Let's Talk - Tuesday noon-2PM
Apr4
Let's Talk - Tuesday noon-2PM Apr 4 Center for Multicultural Academic Excellence
Native Studies Research Colloquium—Deepening Place Relationship: A Request for Feedback
Apr4
Native Studies Research Colloquium—Deepening Place Relationship: A Request for Feedback Apr 4 Many Nations Longhouse
Let's Talk - Wednesday 2-4PM
Apr5
Let's Talk - Wednesday 2-4PM Apr 5 Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center
LT 199 - Self Study Language Program Orientation Meeting
Apr5
LT 199 - Self Study Language Program Orientation Meeting Apr 5 Yamada Language Center
Let's Talk - Thursday 2-4PM
Apr6
Let's Talk - Thursday 2-4PM Apr 6 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Ukrainian weaving with Tetyana Bondarchuk-Horner
Apr8
Ukrainian weaving with Tetyana Bondarchuk-Horner Apr 8 Museum of Natural and Cultural History
Colloquium - Anne Schilling (UC Davis)
Apr10
Colloquium - Anne Schilling (UC Davis) Apr 10
Let's Talk - Tuesday noon-2PM
Apr11
Let's Talk - Tuesday noon-2PM Apr 11 Center for Multicultural Academic Excellence

All events »