Global Studies
Bachelor of Arts
World affairs are no longer primarily defined by national boundaries, but by the global integration of resources, ideas, and communities.
It is more important than ever to be able to understand the complex factors that affect our world’s choices.
A study of many factors
The Global Studies program offers courses that examine the actors (individuals, countries, non-governmental organizations), ideas, and processes that shape the cultural, social, political, and economic dimensions of global society.
Thematic courses
Courses are divided into three themes. These themes are used to illustrate how similar issues are understood across different communities in global society.
- Global Culture and Identity – These courses examine how historical, cultural, racial/ethnic, gender and spirituality factors are understood within a global context.
- Global Governance and Civil Society – These courses examine how actors encounter the political and social challenges and opportunities posed by integration and interdependence in global society.
- Global Economy, Development and Resources – These courses examine the economic forces, technology and natural resources in the global community.
Experience the world you’re studying
Global studies students are required to engage in experiential learning through field research and through an internship or studying abroad. This fosters cultural sensitivity and an appreciation of global diversity.
Expand your capstone research
The best capstone projects are selected for the Pearson Scholar summer research program. If selected, you will work on expanding your project full-time during a summer break. Pearson Scholars can then present their work at professional and/or undergraduate research conferences.
Programs
Offered as a major (BA) and a minor.
Popular Minor Pairings
- Economics
- Ethnic Studies
- French
- German
- Global Business
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Spanish
- Theology and Christian Leadership
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Global Studies has given me an immensely global perspective to my biology passion, and how the health and environmental issues affecting our planet need global solutions. It is a major I would unreservedly recommend to anyone wishing to find a way to explore a different discipline in college or looking for a more well-rounded perspective to any other major.
Joseph Enders '16
Global Studies, Biology

I fell in love with street art while studying abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Working with Dr. Fiore, I decided to focus on Latinas making street art in Los Angeles. This art form is male-dominated, but a small number of women are demonstrating incredible power in their craft. I wanted to meet these women, assess how their work was being received by their male counterparts, and learn how their involvement in this art form aided in the development of their self-identities. There is very little scholarly work being done in this area, so my project was the first of its kind.
Marina Alvarez '15
Global Studies, Spanish
Armed with knowledge, perspectives, and skills acquired through their degree, our alumni pursue their interests and careers everywhere in the world.
They take advantage of opportunities created in the global world and work with people from different cultural and religious backgrounds for peace, social justice, cross-cultural understanding, and business.
Our alumni study at:
- Boston University
- California State University Fullerton
- Geneva institute for Development
- University California Santa Barbara
- University of Oxford/Exeter College
Our alumni work for:
- Center for Teaching Language in China
- City of Los Angeles
- Reagan Presidential Library & Museum
- Score Educational Centers
- Tommaso Barletta
- Wells Fargo Financial
Career paths:
- Marketing and PR Director
- Project Coordinator
- Special Programs Coordinator
- Teacher
- Travel Agent
of Cal Lutheran graduates find a job or enroll in graduate school within nine months

Cal Lutheran taught me about voicing, engaging, and acting one's passions in the world. Through my experiences in the classroom and in the campus SEEd Garden, I was able form a foundation of knowledge that allows me to perform my duties more effectively.
Eric Fruth '14
Global Studies Major
Grant Writer, Many Mansions
Want to learn more?
Let us know and we'll send you information about our academics, campus life, admission process, and more!