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 experiential 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.

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.

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

GLOBAL STUDIES - From Oct. 17 to 19, the College of Arts and Sciences School of Global Studies and Languages hosted its first-ever conference. Titled “Climate Clashes, Climate Governance, Climate Justice,” the inaugural conference’s theme was focused on interdisciplinary approaches to climate change and resolution. The conference brought together local and global academics who focus on different specific aspects of climate change.
GEOGRAPHY, GLOBAL STUDIES - A student in the College of Arts and Sciences and Clark Honors College, Charles Petrik was drawn to his opportunity with the mayor’s office of Medellin, Colombia, because he is passionate about cultural exchange. While interning, he lived with students from all over the U.S., but his work at the office was conducted entirely in Spanish. In addition to a language “crash course,” Petrik analyzed pothole and public space data, creating representations that city officials could use to identify areas for infrastructure projects.
GLOBAL STUDIES - The University of Oregon’s School of Global Studies and Languages is hosting a conference on climate change Oct. 17-19. The climate conference is taking an interdisciplinary approach to discussions by reflecting on the multifaceted issues related to climate change—affecting health, environment, economy, governance, and many other issues on a local and global level.

All news »


HEDCO Institute Undergraduate Scholars Program Info Session
Nov4
HEDCO Institute Undergraduate Scholars Program Info Session Nov 4
Mastering the Art of a Humanities & Social Science 3MT Slide
Nov4
Mastering the Art of a Humanities & Social Science 3MT Slide Nov 4
Physical Chemistry Seminar: Photo-scissile Ruthenium Compounds for Tissue Engineering and Drug Delivery
Nov4
Physical Chemistry Seminar: Photo-scissile Ruthenium Compounds for Tissue Engineering and Drug Delivery Nov 4 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
More than 2024:  Historians Pick the Craziest and Most Consequential US Elections
Nov4
More than 2024:  Historians Pick the Craziest and Most Consequential US Elections Nov 4 McKenzie Hall 375
Department of History Coffee Hour
Nov5
Department of History Coffee Hour Nov 5 McKenzie Hall
Mastering the Art of a STEM 3MT Slide
Nov5
Mastering the Art of a STEM 3MT Slide Nov 5
Let's Talk - Tuesdays 3-5PM (CMAE/Zoom)
Nov5
Let's Talk - Tuesdays 3-5PM (CMAE/Zoom) Nov 5 CMAE
Wisconsin Postdoc Expo 2024
Nov6
Wisconsin Postdoc Expo 2024 Nov 6
Let's Talk - Wednesdays Noon-2MP (Peterson Hall/Zoom)
Nov6
Let's Talk - Wednesdays Noon-2MP (Peterson Hall/Zoom) Nov 6 Peterson Hall
Let’s Talk – Wednesdays 2PM-4PM (BCC/Zoom)
Nov6
Let’s Talk – Wednesdays 2PM-4PM (BCC/Zoom) Nov 6 Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center

All events »