Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is the pedagogical emphasis of the program. Global studies students are required to engage in experiential learning through an internship or study abroad, and through field research in the required core courses.

Experiential learning in the form of study abroad or internships fosters cultural sensitivity and appreciation of global diversity. Learn more about Study Abroad

In the capstone and required upper division course, students work on projects that involve on-site, field research that allows them to observe and interact with aspects of global society without traveling abroad. Exposure to global society (via study abroad and internships) and engagement in global society through field research (via the required upper division course and capstone) will equip students with the knowledge and skills to be "leaders in a global society." Learn more about the Capstone

The best capstone projects are selected for the Pearson Scholar summer research program in which the students work on expanding their projects in sample and analysis full-time in 10 to 12 weeks during a summer break. The Summer Research program was made possible by a generous gift by the late Alma Pearson of Santa Barbara in 2008. Since then, the Pearson Scholars produced excellent scholarship and presented their work at professional and/or undergraduate research conferences. Learn more about the Pearson Scholars