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Undergraduate

Global Studies

Global Studies is an interdisciplinary minor designed to help students understand how countries across the globe are linked together ecologically, economically, geographically and politically.

A minor in Global Studies allows a student to add a global dimension to their program of study. By taking global awareness courses from across the University, students choosing to minor in Global Studies acquire an understanding of contemporary global issues that can complement and enrich many majors.

Become a Global Citizen

The world has perhaps never seemed so small. Economic and political events in one part of the globe echo through others in ways that present us all with new challenges as well as new opportunities. The founding of Assumption University is itself rooted in the global flow of people and ideas that resulted in Belgian Assumptionists moving first to Canada and then to Massachusetts. The Global Studies minor is thus deeply rooted in the University’s history and in its mission to create thoughtful, ethical citizens and leaders.

Global Studies students study how different societies affect, and are affected by, economic growth, migration, climate change, poverty, conflict, and geo-locational constraints. Students take core classes in geography, economics, and political science, alongside a range of electives that allow them to gain a more in-depth understanding of the issues and parts of the world in which they are most interested. Along the way, students gain valuable communication and analytical skills that are applicable to a wide range of fields.

The Global Studies Program with its interdisciplinary focus and experiential learning requirement fits perfectly with the mission of Assumption University. Working with The Center for Global Studies, the minor could include elective coursework connected to Catholic Relief Services.

Program Contact

Smriti Rao, Ph.D

Department Chair, Economics, Finance and Accounting, Professor of Economics, Global Studies Program Director
508-767-7565 Tsotsis Family Academic Center - Room 229

100%
2017 global studies graduates who secured employment within 6 months of graduation.
Students from 33 states and 11 countries
11:1
Student/Faculty ratio

Program Curriculum

  • A minor in Global Studies allows a student to add a global dimension to their program of study. By taking global awareness courses from across the University, students choosing to minor in Global Studies acquire an understanding of contemporary global issues that can complement and enrich many majors.

    Required: GLS 100  and ANTH 131
    Electives: Any 5 other courses from at least two different disciplines from the list of  Global Awareness courses.
    Two Required Courses
    GLS 100 Introduction to Global Studies
    ANT 131 Cultural Anthropology
    Five of the following Electives (must be at least two different disciplines):

    Any language listed ‘V’ or higher

    Any Spanish course with Latin American content

    BUS: 330

    CLT: 385

    ECO: 252, 264

    EDU: 302

    GEO: 100, 108, 222, 232

    GLS: 112

    HIS: 114, 115, 241, 250, 251, 252, 254, 255, 282, 283, 290, 291, 363, 383, 385

    INB: 318

    MUS: 125, 126

    PSY: 218

    SOC: 108

    THE: 286

    WMS: 385

    Course Descriptions

  • Learning Goals:

    1. To develop an understanding of the basic principles, concepts, and theories of the disciplines that we teach.
    2. To develop an ability to interpret geographic and interdisciplinary information using appropriate disciplinary methodology.
    3. To develop an ability to apply geographic knowledge to critically analyze problems throughout the world and their potential solutions.
    4. To develop effective written and oral communication skills to better present information to those with interest in global concerns.

Faculty

Demetrius Kantarelis, Ph.D
Professor of Economics
Smriti Rao, Ph.D
Department Chair, Economics, Finance and Accounting Professor of Economics Global Studies Program Director

Experiential Learning

Assumption's Rome Campus

At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)

Explore the Rome Campus

Learn the Skills Employers Seek

Students majoring in Global Studies are required to complete one of three options to enhance their undergraduate academic experience: a semester abroad, an internationally focused internship (possibly in Washington, D.C.), or a Senior Research Project on an issue of global significance.

Faculty/Student Research

The Assumption curriculum encourages scholarly and real-world experience. With hands-on research conducted alongside faculty mentors, students gain a depth of knowledge and skills that lead to professional success and personal fulfillment. Sample research projects include “An Investigation of Renewable Energy Projects and Their Potential Applications at Assumption University: Wind Turbines and Geothermal Heat Pumps” and “Pollution of the Yangtze and Ganges Rivers: An Inside Look at How India and China Respond to Environmental Degradation and Economic Development”

Study Abroad

At Assumption University, the world is your classroom. Students can study and explore abroad in over 50 places from Vienna to England, South Africa, and even our own campus in historic, yet modern, Rome, Italy. Assumption’s study abroad program offers culture, history, and a living classroom for all.

Internships

Assumption starts planning for your future the day you arrive on campus. Our Career Development and Internship Center helps students secure exciting and fulfilling internships where you’ll apply knowledge obtained in the classroom in a professional setting, preparing for a future career or additional study. Assumption connects students to internship opportunities in corporations, government agencies, research hospitals, non-profit organizations, and more.


Career Paths

Bloomberg LP

City of Lawrence, MA School System

City of Worcester Public Housing Administration

Coca Cola National

District Counsel U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Natick Army Labs

National Sexual Violence Resource Center

New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission

Reebok Corporation

Siemens Energy, Inc.

Sun Life Insurance International

T.J. Maxx, Corporate Legal Division

U.S. Department of State

Winter-Wyman Search Corp.

First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting

Assumption University awakens in students a sense of wonder, discovery, and purpose, forming graduates known for their intellectual seriousness, thoughtful citizenship, and devotion to the common good. Students are provided an education that shapes their souls, forms them intellectually, and prepares them for meaningful careers. Enlivened by the harmony of faith and reason, here, students’ minds and hearts are transformed.


Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost

We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.

Opportunity awaits


Center for Global Studies

At the Center for Global Studies at Assumption University, internationally focused academic and study abroad programs will join together to provide a comprehensive experience for students interested in global learning, in particular, the global studies major and minor. The Center helps students develop a deeper and more meaningful appreciation of the world and its history, diverse cultures and customs, geography and economics. Professors provide perspective on what it means to be a true citizen of the world through a wide range of interdisciplinary courses designed to broaden students' horizons while helping them understand how the pieces fit together to create the world we live in.

Programs Related to Global Studies

CTEQ Pre-College Program

Undergraduate

History

Undergraduate

Honors Program

Undergraduate

Political Science

Undergraduate

Theology

Undergraduate

Women's Studies

Undergraduate