Global Studies is an interdisciplinary major that allows students to customize their education in preparation for their next step after graduation. Every student in the major completes an individualized Major Plan of Study with guidance from an advisor. This enables our majors to create an academic program that uniquely prepares them for their educational and career goals, in effect giving them the opportunity to craft an ideal set of qualifications and credentials to meet their personal objectives. This section of our website contains valuable information related to the major, so whether you are a current or a prospective student, we encourage you to take some time to review the information here.
Global Studies majors enhance their ability to move between cultures and regions of the world, giving them greater flexibility and marketability for their futures. Our majors are required to complete advanced level courses in a non-native language, spend a full semester studying abroad in their chosen language, and take courses related to their chosen region of focus. This gives our graduates an advantage in terms of experience and cultural competency that prepares them well for the globalized society of the 21st century.
Within their Thematic Area, our students have the opportunity to explore their chosen field in detail from multiple perspectives and theoretical constructs. The entire campus is open to Global Studies majors, allowing them to use courses from any discipline to complete a coherent plan of study. By taking courses from multiple disciplines, our students accumulate a wide array of perspectives and skill sets to better prepare them for the complexities of the 21st century. We also actively encourage our students to undertake internships, independent study, and volunteer opportunities to further enhance their experience and competency for their future ambitions.
From 1999-2009 Global Studies was known as International Studies at UIUC. During those years we offered an International Studies Major and an International Studies Minor.