Global affairs examines the interactions of states and non-state actors at a worldwide scale, including the political, economic, social, and cultural implications of these activities. The study of global affairs has a strong foundation in the disciplines of international relations, history, political science, economics, geography, and sociology. The field has been particularly influential in the post-World War II era, as newly independent nations sought to establish their roles on the world stage. The establishment of organizations like the United Nations helped to facilitate dialogue and collaboration between countries. However, the involvement of these new nations often created power struggles and conflicts that reshaped geopolitical landscapes.
The field also has a strong postcolonial and critical-theoretical approach. It seeks to challenge perspectives of eurocentrism and orientalism in traditional conceptual frameworks of world politics. This approach has become increasingly important as the world becomes more interconnected and globalized.
Students completing the major are required to take introductory courses in at least three of the following fields:
The program offers a flexible curriculum, allowing students to focus on a region or topic that best suits their interests. Students are encouraged to complete a study abroad or internship, and to complement their degree with a second major or minor. Students are required to complete a senior project, either in the form of a capstone or senior essay, in a seminar of their choice or in the global affairs senior essay course GLBL 4500. Students are responsible for securing an academic advisor and secondary reader for their senior projects.