Global affairs are the interactions between nations and non-governmental organizations on a worldwide scale. They include diplomacy, trade, security, human rights, and environmental issues.
A new era of interconnectedness has emerged as societies and economies across the world have become increasingly interdependent. As a result, we are facing challenges that transcend national boundaries and require global solutions. As a graduate of the Master of Science in Global Affairs, you will be well prepared to tackle these challenges by developing an understanding of the diversity of influences that affect our global society and how they relate to one another.
The study of global affairs is an interdisciplinary field that draws on the perspectives and approaches of many disciplines, including political science, history, economics, international law, and political economy. Often, the subject of global affairs is examined through a postcolonial and critical-theoretical lens, seeking to deconstruct assumptions of Eurocentrism and orientalism that are embedded within traditional conceptual frameworks.
In the wake of decolonization, formerly colonial states engaged in international politics for the first time, which dramatically changed the nature of global affairs. Their engagement resulted in new alliances, cooperation with established powers, and conflict as each sought recognition and legitimacy on the global stage. The establishment of international organizations also helped to shape these changing dynamics.
Students who choose to pursue a degree in global affairs have the option of completing either a senior Capstone project in GLBL 4499 or writing a senior essay in a seminar of their choice or GLBL 4500, the Global Affairs senior essay course. As a result, students should work toward fulfilling the L4 language requirement early in their course planning, and if they are admitted into the major should plan to enroll in both introductory courses as indicated in the Requirements for the Major at the time of application.
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