Global Studies
World affairs are no longer only defined by national boundaries, but by the global integration of resources, ideas and communities.
It is more important than ever to be able to understand the complex factors that affect our world’s choices.
Gain a holistic understanding of the world
Our global studies program will offer you courses that examine the actors (i.e., individuals, countries, non-governmental organizations), ideas, and processes that shape the cultural, social, political and economic dimensions of global society.
Address global issues thematically
Themes throughout your courses will illustrate how similar issues are understood across different global communities.
Your courses will be divided into three themes:
- Global culture and identity – these courses examine how historical, cultural, racial/ethnic, gender and spirituality factors are understood within a global context.
- Global governance and civil society – these courses examine how actors encounter the political and social challenges and opportunities posed by integration and interdependence in global society.
- Global economy, development and resources – these courses examine the economic forces, technology and natural resources in the global community.
Become a leader for a global society
In support of the Cal Lutheran mission, our global studies program is committed to preparing you to become a leader for a global society — with an emphasis on real-life experiences such as a capstone project and studying abroad.
At a Glance
Degree Type
Bachelor of Arts
Department
School/College
College of Arts and Science
Next Steps
Interested in this major? Here's what you can do next:
With challenging and relevant courses, outstanding faculty, small class sizes, and an emphasis on hands-on learning, the global studies program will position you to succeed in your chosen career.
Program Details
Find out what it takes to earn a degree in global studies and explore the courses.
Highlighted Courses
Get familiar with some of the courses you might take in this major.
GLST 103: Contemporary Global Issues
A critical review and assessment will be undertaken of the origin and present condition of the major global issues and problems and how these are being addressed by the local and international organizations. We will also explore ideas and concepts of human trafficking, human rights, coexistence among peoples of different cultures and other critical global issues such as poverty eradication, environmental degradation, health crisis and family/gender issues.
See descriptionGLST 318: Immigration in the Global Age
International migration is an integral part of the globalization processes. This course explores the key current theoretical and empirical debates in the study of this global phenomenon. The course covers transnational networks, the formation and implementation of labor recruitment (including human trafficking), migration policies, political conflict, economic and social adaptation, the development of socio-cultural traditions (ethnic identities) and the transformation of gender relations.
See descriptionPOLS 432: Political Violence and Revolutions
In this course we analyze the use of non-traditional warfare throughout history, including terrorism and guerilla insurgency, to promote political and social change. Topics include just war theory, theories of revolution, and the social and political consequences of political violence.
See descriptionRLTH 351: Global Ethics
A variety of issues have arisen which need to be examined from global perspective: political repression, social change, terrorism and war, economic globalization, immigration, human rights, health, and the environment. This course examines these issues from the perspectives of global religions, ethics, social theory, and social movements
See descriptionSOC 230: Introduction to World Cultures
People from different continents who speak different languages and possess different values and religions find themselves living closer and closer together in a new global village. To all members of this new community, cultural anthropology offers a unique invitation to examine, explain and critique human diversity. This course will introduce the student to the concepts, theories and methods used by anthropologists to analyze cultural systems particularly those from non-Western societies.
See descriptionPHIL 312: A More Inclusive History of Philosophy
This course is a general introduction to some of the issues and debates in the history of philosophy. The aim of the course is to introduce you to some of the historically significant philosophical debates (and some debates/figures that have been excluded from the "Western Canon"); to teach you how to reconstruct arguments and evaluate them, and how to write philosophy papers.
See descriptionRecommended Minors
Want to add even more value to your degree? Consider one of these minors to gain a unique combination of skills and perspectives.
- Economics
- Ethnic and Race Studies
- French
- German
- Global Business
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Spanish
- Theology and Christian Leadership
We offer hands-on opportunities that give you the freedom to explore your passion through real-world work and prepare for a fulfilling career.
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Learning in Action
Global studies students are required to engage in experiential learning in numerous ways, including through field research, internships or studying abroad. This allows you to experience a range of perspectives and develop and an appreciation of global diversity.
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Research Opportunities
The best capstone projects are selected for the Pearson Scholar summer research program. If selected, you will work on expanding your project full-time during a summer break. Pearson Scholars can then present their work at professional or undergraduate research conferences.
I chose to double major in Political Science and Global Studies after participating in the CLU Oxford Program. Prior to this, I was much more focused on American government and politics, but developed a more holistic view of governance and interdependency between countries and regions while I was abroad. This piqued my interest in international affairs, so I decided to add a Global Studies major to expose myself to the study of new (to me, at least), complex issues I was becoming more and more passionate about.
Olivia Marcey '17
Global Studies, Political Science Major
Students who graduate from our global studies program move on to follow their career interests everywhere in the world. They take advantage of opportunities created in the global world and work with people from different cultural and religious backgrounds for peace, social justice, cross-cultural understanding and business.
Potential Careers
Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other
All postsecondary social sciences teachers not listed separately.
See descriptionLawyers
Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.
See descriptionPolitical Scientists
Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. May conduct public opinion surveys, analyze election results, or analyze public documents.
See descriptionClimate Change Policy Analysts
Research and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches.
See descriptionEnvironmental Economists
Conduct economic analysis related to environmental protection and use of the natural environment, such as water, air, land, and renewable energy resources. Evaluate and quantify benefits, costs, incentives, and impacts of alternative options using economic principles and statistical techniques.
See descriptionTraining and Development Specialists
Design or conduct work-related training and development programs to improve individual skills or organizational performance. May analyze organizational training needs or evaluate training effectiveness.
See descriptionLegislators
Develop, introduce, or enact laws and statutes at the local, tribal, state, or federal level. Includes only workers in elected positions.
See descriptionLooking for more career paths? Search these related areas to discover more options.
Employers
Graduates from this major have gone to work at:
- Center for Teaching Language in China
- City of Los Angeles
- Reagan Presidential Library & Museum
- Score Educational Centers
- Tommaso Barletta
- Wells Fargo Financial
Graduate Schools
Our alumni have pursued advanced degrees at:
- Boston University
- California State University Fullerton
- Geneva institute for Development
- University California Santa Barbara
- University of Oxford/Exeter College
As a Pearson Scholar for Leadership and Engagement in Global Society (under the guidance of Dr. Fiore Urízar), my study intersected Literature, Art, and Sociology. The experience has led me to excel in graduate school, publish academic articles, and work in art museums.
Marina Alvarez '15
Global Studies and Spanish Major
Independent Curator and PhD Student in Art History, University of Illinois
This page includes information from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Some occupations listed above may require a related graduate degree.
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