Global Studies and International Affairs major

Pandemics, climate change, K-pop — our world is deeply interconnected in so many ways. With a major in global studies and international affairs, you’ll learn how to work across cultures and continents to create positive change in our global community.

In this fascinating interdisciplinary major, you’ll explore world language, economics, history and political science. Then you’ll have the opportunity to expand your perspective through an immersive experience in another culture, either abroad or in the United States. Whether you dream of filling up your passport or using your cross-cultural knowledge and skills close to home, our versatile program will take you far.

The Alverno difference

As a women’s college, Alverno strives to welcome, include and empower all of our students. Our small class sizes will help you receive the individualized attention and feedback you need to grow. You’ll create strong relationships with faculty and bond with your peers, and we’ll all cheer you on as you explore new ideas and challenge yourself.

Your coursework will give you a strong foundation in global studies and international affairs. You’ll also be encouraged to explore your own interests, including specific nations, cultures and global issues.

“Alverno has helped me grow and to see the world as a whole when it comes to culture, government and traditions. I have learned to work together and share ideas with others in order to get things done. I especially enjoyed the Model United Nations simulation where many schools represent different countries and work together to find solutions to world issues.”

— Sheilla

Coursework

All Alverno students must complete 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree. You’ll begin courses in your major during freshman year, as well as your general education requirements. You’ll explore global studies, the economic environment, American and comparative politics, civilizations and cultures from around the world, world geography, the United Nations and more. You can customize the major to your interests by taking either four courses in a foreign language or four courses in research methods to earn a specialization in data science. Or you can do a mix of both topics.

Field education

You’ll gain valuable experience by completing at least one internship. Past graduates have interned at Alverno’s International and Intercultural Center, the U.S. Department of Defense’s Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies, Voces de la Frontera, the Urban Ecology Center and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, along with other internationally focused organizations. Alverno’s Career Studio can 
help you find the right opportunity to advance your goals.

Career opportunities

This major could lead to a career in politics and government, international business, travel and tourism, journalism, non-government organizations, education and bilingual education, or humanitarian relief. It’s also excellent preparation for law school and other graduate programs, including business, political science and public policy.

Admission requirements

Your first step is to apply for admission to Alverno by completing the free application at alverno.edu/apply. You should mark your intended major as global studies and international affairs.

For your first two years at Alverno, you’ll be matched with a professional academic advisor who gets to know you and guides you through your education, helping you chart your path and register for classes. As a junior, you’ll be paired with a faculty advisor from your major who will support your success to graduation.