Global Studies

Minor

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Why Study Global Studies at Goshen College?

Students walking on SST

As a global studies major at Goshen College, you’ll prepare for a life shaped by global citizenship, intercultural understanding and servant leadership. Whether you’re passionate about addressing global challenges, building bridges across cultures or promoting peace and justice, this program empowers you to make a meaningful impact — locally and globally.

Through small classes and hands-on learning, you’ll explore global systems, cultural perspectives and social movements while developing critical thinking and communication skills. You’ll also choose a concentration in international development, global economics or global education to focus your studies.

Rooted in Goshen College’s core values — passionate learning, global citizenship, compassionate peacemaking and servant leadership — this interdisciplinary major helps you become the kind of thoughtful, ethical leader today’s world needs.

  • 91%
    of classes have fewer than 30 students
  • 50%
    of students study abroad through our SST program
  • 93%
    of graduates are employed, in grad school or service within a year

    Career Paths

    As a global studies graduate, you’ll be prepared for careers that demand intercultural awareness, systems thinking and a commitment to global citizenship. Our alumni work around the world in fields that promote justice, education, development and diplomacy.

    Career fields include:

    • Nonprofit and NGO work
    • International education
    • Peace and conflict resolution
    • Government and diplomacy
    • Environmental advocacy
    • International development

    Career roles include:

    • Program coordinator for international NGOs
    • Diplomatic aide or foreign service officer
    • Educator abroad or ESL teacher
    • Immigration advocate or caseworker
    • Policy analyst
    • Peace and justice program managerMany graduates also pursue advanced degrees in international relations, public policy, global health or development studies.

    Curriculum and Credits

    As a global studies major, you’ll build a foundation in global systems, intercultural communication and justice-oriented analysis. The curriculum combines courses in history, economics, political science and cultural studies to help you understand the forces shaping our interconnected world.

    Sample courses include:

    • International Economics
    • Peacemaking and Justice
    • History of International Development
    • Cultural Anthropology
    • Environmental Policy and Politics
    • World Languages and Cultures

    You’ll also complete a senior seminar and capstone project that draws from your concentration and experiential learning.

    The global studies major requires 44 credit hours and includes core classes, a concentration, and a capstone project.

    course catalog

    Concentrations/Licensure

    In addition to core courses, you’ll choose one of three concentrations to align your studies with your interests and career goals:

    • International Development — Explore issues like poverty, sustainability and community empowerment
    • Global Economics — Examine trade, finance and economic systems in a global context
    • Global Education — Prepare to teach, lead or support learning across cultural and national boundaries

    Hands-On Learning Opportunities

    At the heart of the global studies major is a cross-cultural experience, such as the immersive, semester-long Study-Service Term, which takes students to locations like Indonesia, Senegal or Ecuador. You’ll live with host families, study local culture and language, and serve in community organizations, schools or clinics.

    Students also complete internships with international or local organizations focused on peacebuilding, immigration, advocacy or community development. You might work with nonprofits, international NGOs, or faith-based organizations engaged in cross-cultural work.

    Scholarships

    As a global studies major, you’ll be eligible for Goshen College’s academic scholarships and need-based financial aid. Additional support may be available for students pursuing service-oriented or intercultural learning paths.

    Explore more of our scholarships

    Facilities & Resources

    Students engage in global learning throughout campus. Study abroad preparation, advising, and cross-cultural events enrich the experience of students in global studies.

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