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

ECONOMICS, GLOBAL STUDIES, PHILOSOPHY, POLITICAL SCIENCE - Two College of Arts and Sciences students — one attending an immersive Mandarin language study abroad and the other serving on a state of Oregon board on climate change and exploring Peru — are having life-transforming experiences.
GLOBAL HEALTH, GLOBAL STUDIES, MULTIDISCIPLINARY SCIENCE, PHYSICS, POLITICAL SCIENCE - Where can a liberal arts degree take you? These College of Arts and Sciences seniors are charting their own course as they pursue careers in the specialty coffee industry, particle physics and public service.
GLOBAL STUDIES, SOCIOLOGY - Japan's energy shift after the Fukushima disaster saw a surge in fossil fuel use. How does this impact their long-term sustainability goals? Recent research by Yvonne Braun of global studies and Michael Dreiling of sociology is featured.

All news »


Department of History Coffee Hour
Oct15
Department of History Coffee Hour Oct 15 McKenzie Hall
Disabled and Neurodivergent Graduate Student Time Together
Oct15
Disabled and Neurodivergent Graduate Student Time Together Oct 15 Susan Campbell Hall
The Roots of Polarization: From the Racial Realignment to the Culture Wars
Oct15
The Roots of Polarization: From the Racial Realignment to the Culture Wars Oct 15 William W. Knight Law Center
How to Be Ready for the Graduate Student & Postdoc Industry Recruitment Event (GSPIRE)
Oct15
How to Be Ready for the Graduate Student & Postdoc Industry Recruitment Event (GSPIRE) Oct 15
Let's Talk - Tuesdays 3-5PM (CMAE/Zoom)
Oct15
Let's Talk - Tuesdays 3-5PM (CMAE/Zoom) Oct 15 CMAE
The BIG 10+ Academia Career Fair
Oct16
The BIG 10+ Academia Career Fair Oct 16
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches)
Oct16
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches) Oct 16 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Get Ready for the Big One! What You Need to Know About Earthquake Preparedness
Oct16
Get Ready for the Big One! What You Need to Know About Earthquake Preparedness Oct 16 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Let's Talk - Wednesdays Noon-2MP (Peterson Hall/Zoom)
Oct16
Let's Talk - Wednesdays Noon-2MP (Peterson Hall/Zoom) Oct 16 Peterson Hall
Let’s Talk – Wednesdays 2PM-4PM (BCC/Zoom)
Oct16
Let’s Talk – Wednesdays 2PM-4PM (BCC/Zoom) Oct 16 Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center

All events »