Get Ready to Study and Explore the World
Get ready to give your passport a workout. Whether you’ve been bitten by the travel bug or are just curious about expanding your cultural horizons, UNE’s Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies will give you experiences you’ll never forget. And with nearly three out of four U.S. employers seeking new employees who are knowledgeable in international cultures, your degree will give you the global fluency and multidimensional perspective needed to succeed in the workforce. So explore a fjord in Iceland, gaze upon the Mona Lisa in Paris, cross the Moroccan desert on camel-back, or engage in the seemingly endless nightlife in Seville. Your adventures await you.
Why UNE for Your B.A. in Global Studies
Uniquely equipped for Global Studies, UNE has its own international campus in Tangier, Morocco, situated at a crossroads of civilizations that blends the languages, religions, and cultures of the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. It’s no wonder that UNE students travel abroad at five times the national average.
- Select two semester-long programs (Morocco, Spain, France, and Iceland) or one semester and 12 travel course credits
- No additional cost for study abroad
- Choose two regional concentrations
- Internships available in Morocco and Spain
- Senior capstone thesis
- Lab sciences offered in Morocco and Spain
Claire Alden ’20
Why UNE
UNE was my first choice in New England because I had a really keen interest in Maine in general. I think it’s beautiful, so the first thing that I was looking for was a beautiful campus, and UNE is absolutely stunning.
The first thing that stuck out to me when I toured UNE was the friendliness of the staff and the close integration of the students. Compared to other campuses that I visited, the students here were the nicest and friendliest. Everyone seemed more academically focused too. All of the students who I talked to while touring seemed to put academics first, which I liked.
I love travel, and history is a big part of that. Both History and Global Studies are strong programs here, and I like the broadness of studying the humanities. I study History and Political Science of course, but I also study international relations, anthropology, cultural studies, and more. It is all interconnected. I don’t think I really consider myself to have a double major and a minor because it all feels like one package deal to me. I think that there is a lot to benefit from global studies, but I also think that it’s important to understand the world and its different cultures and people.
Last year, I studied abroad in Paris, and while I was there, I got to work with the global education department a little bit. I’m leaning towards a global education career now. Because I’ve lived abroad, I've experienced people helping my family try to get over there and set that up for us and then experienced it again when I went abroad to Paris for a semester. It’s important to me to be able to make that same positive difference in other people's lives.
Global Opportunities
I originally chose UNE’s study abroad program in France because it was more political science-directed. It’s a newer program, and it’s set at a graduate school there. I knew that would be challenging for me, and that was exciting. The classes were incredible. I can’t put into words how amazing the experience was overall.
The professors were so smart, and so were the students. My peers ranged from people just a little older than me to people in their fifties trying to get their doctorate degrees. It was energizing to be among so many scholarly people, some of whom were even writing their theses. The school was amazing.
In the beginning, we ventured out around Paris a bit timidly, but by March, we felt settled and part of the big city. We were swiping our cards to get on the metro and knew which lines to take; we knew how to get to school and the Eiffel Tower; and we even picked up some shortcuts for getting through our neighborhood. We had the hang of things. I think that’s my fondest memory of being there. It was the moment when I realized that I had made my own home there. I knew my way around. Once we were comfortable in Paris, we took our first trip to Belgium. It was about a two-hour train ride. Then we went to Brussels next, and then we planned a big spring break trip. It was such a great opportunity to see new parts of the world.
The classes [at the study abroad program in France] were incredible. I can’t put into words how amazing the experience was overall.
What Will You Study? Global Studies Degree Curriculum Overview
The Global Studies major offers three different regional concentrations. You will select two on which to focus your studies.
- Europe and the Mediterranean
- Latin America and the Caribbean
- Africa and the Middle East
B.A. in Global Studies Courses
There are many ways you can navigate this major. The following are some examples of the exciting courses that you can take:
- International Political Economy
- Society, Population, and the Environment: A Global Perspective
- Tangier — Crossroads of Civilization
- Rebellion and Revolution in 20th Century Latin America
- Caribbean Sustainable Development
- Middle East and North Africa Through Film
- Center for Global Humanities Seminar
Curriculum
At least two (2) full semesters abroad or one (1) semester abroad plus twelve (12) credits of UNE travel courses are required for this major.
| Nor’easter Core Curriculum | Credits |
|---|---|
| Total Credits | 40 |
| Program Required Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| GLS 100 – Introduction to Global Studies | 3 |
| GLS 410 – Global Studies Capstone Seminar or PSC 491 – Integrative Essay | 3 |
| GLS 490 – Center Global Humanities Seminar | 3 |
| Three (3) Foreign Language courses with at least two (2) of the courses in the same foreign language and at least one (1) course above the introductory level taken during study abroad for a total of nine (9) credits. | 9 |
| Four (4) Interdisciplinary Core courses with at least one (1) course at the 300-level or above | 12 |
| One (1) Regional Concentration (see below for details) | 18 |
| Total Credits | 48 |
| Open Elective Courses (as needed to reach 120 credits) | Variable |
| Minimum Total Required Credits | 120 |
|---|
Interdisciplinary Core
| Interdisciplinary Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| ANT 102 – Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| ENG 329 – Topics in World Literature or ENG 405 – Topics in Postcolonial Literature | 3 |
| ENV 200 – Society, Population and the Environment: A Global Perspective | 3 |
| HIS 278 – Origins of the Contemporary World | 3 |
| PSC 201 – Introduction to International Relations | 3 |
| PSC 322 – International Political Economy | 3 |
Regional Concentration Requirement Details
| Select One (1) Regional Concentration below: | Credits |
|---|---|
| One (1) regional concentration (below) with eighteen (18) credits of coursework with at least six (6) credits at the 300-level or above | 18 |
| Two (2) regional concentrations (below) selecting nine (9) credits in each with at least three (3) credits at the 300-level or above for each concentration | 18 |
Regional Concentration Options
| Europe/The Mediterranean | Credits |
|---|---|
| HIS 230 – From Togas to Black Rats | 3 |
| HIS 231 – Reformations, Revolutions | 3 |
| HIS 344 – Postwar – Europe after WWII | 3 |
| SOC 212 – Society and Culture in Morocco | 3 |
| Latin America/Caribbean | Credits |
|---|---|
| ANT 230 – Anthropology of Latin America and the Caribbean | 3 |
| HIS 240 – Latin Amer His I: Colonial Lat | 3 |
| HIS 241 – Latin Amer His II: Modern Latin | 3 |
| SOC 230 – Society in Latin America | 3 |
| SOC 331 – Latin America Society and Culture through Cinema | 3 |
| Africa/Middle East | Credits |
|---|---|
| ANT 231 – Culture and Society in the Middle East | 3 |
| ENV 349/349L – Environment, Health, and Community Development in East Africa w/Lab | 4 |
| HIS 370 – Slave/Citizens: Africans in the New World | 3 |
| SOC 212 – Society and Culture in Morocco | 3 |
| PSC 110 – Politics – Culture/Inven/Trade | 3 |
| PSC 304 – Middle East and North Africa through Film | 3 |
| PSC 307 – R & P: Political Islam and Islamic | 3 |
Please note: While some courses can fulfill both core and program requirements, the credits earned do not count twice towards the minimum total required credits for the degree.
Students in this major can participate in the pre-health graduate school preparation tracks.
To learn more about the program visit the Academic Catalog.
For more information, contact Kenneth Courtney, Ph.D., Global Studies coordinator at kcourtney1@une.edu or (207) 602-2156
Learn about the Center for Global Humanities Seminar
Career Paths for Global Studies Majors
In an increasingly globalized world, cross-cultural fluency has never been more valuable. We give you the tools and knowledge to relate to global issues and diverse populations. By honing foreign language skills and acquiring greater intercultural competence through your travels and internships, you will be prepared to assume leadership roles in a variety of fields. Potential professions include:
- Policy Expert
- Elected Official
- International Attorney
- Teacher
- U.S. Foreign Service Agent
- Consultant
- Nonprofit Administrator
- International Businessperson
- Global Health Care Provider
Employers seek employees with skills and experience in communication, critical thinking, teamwork, problem solving and ability to adapt to new environments and challenges. As a Global Studies major, you will be well prepared to apply your knowledge to these skill sets desired. You will be able to speak on the value of your extensive study-abroad and foreign language experience and be a strong applicant for business, non-profit, teaching, and government environments.
How Does Global Studies Relate to Other Majors, Minors?
Have you already declared a major and/or minor and wondering how adding a focus in Global Studies will correlate to the career path of your current major? Here are a few examples:
| Program + Global Studies | Potential Careers |
|---|---|
| History + Global Studies | International History Professor, Archivist, Foreign Services, Reporter, Civil Service, Cultural Officer |
| Pre-Med Biology + Global Studies | Medical Career Abroad (i.e., Doctors Without Borders, PeaceCorp, International Medical Corps) |
| Business + Global Studies | International Trade, International Hotel Administrator, International Account Manager |
| Marine Sciences + Global Studies | Global careers through companies such as Earthwatch, Nature Conservancy, Oceana |
Any of the possible career choices can also be done in the U.S.
Career Advising for B.A. in Global Studies Students
Whether you have a specific career goal in mind or a vague idea of the field that interests you, Career Advising is here to help you plan your next step.
Global Education in the Bachelor’s Degree in Global Studies
Global experiences are the cornerstone of the Global Studies major. You’ll get to apply the concepts you learn in the classroom as you navigate different cultures and languages, all while experiencing immeasurable personal growth.
You are required to spend two full semesters abroad or spend one full semester and acquire a minimum of 12 travel course credits. You may even complete an internship abroad.
Choose from our programs in:
Our shorter, faculty-led travel courses include exciting trips to Cuba, Mexico, Iceland, Italy, and Kenya.
A Day in the Life Studying Abroad in Morocco
Experiential Learning in the Bachelor’s Degree in Global Studies Program
Hands-On Activities
This multidisciplinary program exposes you to global issues, problems, cultures, and relations through the lenses of the humanities, social sciences, business, and more. But there is no better view than the one through your own eyes. When it comes to cultural competencies, we believe in learning by doing.
- Engage in multiple travel-abroad experiences
- Participate in global internships for culturally immersive on-the-job experiences
- Conduct original research in an area of interest for your senior capstone thesis
Internships for Global Studies Majors
As a Global Studies major, you are highly encouraged to complete a globally-oriented internship. Our Academic and Career Advising Center will work with you to find the right opportunity to suit your interests. You may consider an internship in a number of fields, including:
- Diplomacy
- Law
- Trade
- Social and Environmental Nonprofits
Apply Today
Ready to begin your future in UNE’s B.A. in Global Studies degree program?
Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies FAQ
What is a global studies major?
Global Studies explores the complexity, pitfalls, and potential of many dynamics in our interconnected world. Historical legacies, economic and political relations, cultural clashes and international synergies are studied through an integrated and interdisciplinary curriculum based in the liberal arts.
In an addition to greater global awareness, students of Global Studies acquire essential skills in analysis, critical thinking, communication, and writing, which are all crucial components of a well-rounded liberal arts education.
UNE offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Global Studies. Majors use the lenses of the humanities, social sciences and humanities, complimented by international experiences, and internships, to better understand the world they live in. Students will have the opportunity to spend time on both UNE’s campuses in Maine and Morocco, with additional opportunities to spend semesters in Spain, France, and beyond.
Additionally, UNE offers a Minor in Global Studies. This 21-credit minor includes a required Introductory course, interdisciplinary core courses, a regional concentration, and two courses in a single language (other than English).
What can you do with a global studies degree?
Employers look for candidates with strong skills in communication, critical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability to handle new situations. As a global studies major, you'll be well-prepared to excel in these areas. Your extensive experience in studying abroad and developing fluency in foreign languages will greatly enhance your qualifications for various roles in the fields of government, business, tourism, law, non-profits, consulting, and a variety of other professions.
UNE students graduating with a Global Studies degree have gone on to hold careers as policy experts, elected officials, international attorneys, teachers, U.S. foreign service agents, consultants, nonprofit administrators, international businesspeople, and global healthcare providers.
Global Studies at UNE also relates well to other undergraduate majors. Adding a focus on global studies will correlate to the career path of other undergraduate majors including:
- Marine Sciences with many international research opportunities, and global careers through companies such as Earthwatch, Nature Conservancy, and Oceana.
- Pre-Med Biology with potential for a medical career abroad (e.g., Doctors Without Borders, PeaceCorp, International Medical Corps).
- Business with potential careers as an international trader, international hotel administrator, or international account manager.
- Education with potential to teach history or social studies.
- History with potential careers as an international history professor, archivist, foreign services, reporter, civil service, or cultural officer.
UNE students can work with our Academic and Career Advising Center. It doesn’t matter if you have a clear career goal or just a general interest in a field.
Is global studies a difficult major?
It depends how you define difficulty. As a global studies student, you won’t be memorizing chemical formulas or anatomical structures, but you will be required to think critically and apply your knowledge across an interdisciplinary curriculum.
Navigating an interdisciplinary major like global studies, which encompasses various social science disciplines, can be challenging. UNE’s Academic and Career Advising Center will work with you to plan your curriculum and course load, find the right internship opportunity to suit your interests, and help you prepare for a career after graduation.
Get ready to give your passport a workout! UNE’s Global Studies major requires at least two (2) full semesters abroad or one (1) semester abroad plus twelve (12) credits of UNE travel courses. While some might think the travel required is costly, for UNE semester abroad programs, students keep all UNE scholarships and financial aid and are billed the same tuition as for a traditional on-campus semester. You may also receive an additional Global Education Scholarship.
Why should I major in global studies?
If you want a career in international relations or related fields, think about majoring in global studies. This major prepares students to assume leadership roles in the fields of government, business, tourism, law, non-profits, consulting, and a variety of other professions. If you’re interested in answering the following questions, a global studies major is for you:
- Do I have a strong interest in studying history, anthropology, political science, and other social sciences?
- Am I open to adapting to new cultures and interacting with diverse people?
- Do I stay informed about current events and historical trends?
- Am I eager to acquire a new language?
Majoring in global studies at UNE gives you the tools and knowledge to relate to global issues and diverse populations. By honing foreign language skills and acquiring greater intercultural competence through your travels and internships, you will be prepared to assume leadership roles in a variety of fields.
Read testimonials from UNE students who participated in global education
Which colleges have the best global studies degree for me?
There are many factors to consider when choosing which college or university has the best global studies degree program for you.
Faculty
When selecting faculty members for your global studies program, assess their expertise and research interests to ensure they align with your passion for culture and match your academic and career objectives.
Faculty at UNE take notice of students’ interests and want to support those interests. Our small class sizes ensure students are a face in the classroom rather than a number. The one-on-one guidance from faculty gives students ample chances to refine valuable, career-ready skills and memorable global experiences.
Meet faculty and professional staff in the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Curriculum
When choosing a global studies curriculum, look at available courses, specialization choices, and their alignment with your academic and career aspirations to find the best fit.
UNE’s Global Studies curriculum includes at least two (2) full semesters abroad or one (1) semester abroad plus twelve (12) credits of UNE travel courses. The following are some examples of the exciting courses that you can take:
- International Political Economy
- Society, Population, and the Environment: A Global Perspective
- Tangier — Crossroads of Civilization
- Rebellion and Revolution in 20th-Century Latin America
- Caribbean Sustainable Development
- Middle East and North Africa Through Film
- Center for Global Humanities Seminar
There are many ways you can navigate a Global Studies major at UNE in Maine. UNE offers three different regional concentrations. You will select two on which to focus your studies:
- Europe and the Mediterranean
- Latin America and the Caribbean
- Africa and the Middle East
Experiential learning opportunities include:
- Engage in multiple travel-abroad experiences
- Participate in global internships for culturally immersive on-the-job experiences
- Conduct original research in an area of interest for your senior capstone thesis
Learn more about the full Global Studies curriculum
Career goals
When deciding on the right global studies major, take your career goals into account. Evaluate the program's specializations, internship, and research opportunities, and how well they match your long-term objectives.
As a Global Studies major at UNE, you are highly encouraged to complete a globally-oriented internship. Our Academic and Career Advising Center will work with you to find the right opportunity to suit your interests. You may consider an internship in a number of fields, including:
- Diplomacy
- Law
- Trade
- Social and Environmental Nonprofits
Learn more about Career Advising at UNE
Overall, Zippia ranks us #1 in Maine for graduates getting jobs, and 95% of undergraduates are employed or engaged in ongoing higher education within one year of graduating.
Learn more about some quick facts about UNE
Location and environment
Think about your preferences. Decide if you'd like to stay in your current location or if you're seeking a new environment. Evaluate if the student and faculty community will offer the inspiration and intellectual stimulation you desire.
UNE is Maine’s largest private university. We have three unique campuses that provide diverse learning opportunities. In Maine, two campuses in Biddeford and Portland offer renowned undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
UNE is great for global studies because we have an international campus in Morocco, where you'll experience a blend of Middle Eastern, European, and African languages, religions, and cultures. It’s no wonder that UNE students travel abroad at five times the national average.
Learn more about UNE’s campuses and how you can visit us
Global experiences are the cornerstone of the UNE Global Studies major. You are required to spend two full semesters abroad or spend one full semester and acquire a minimum of 12 travel course credits. Choose from our programs in Morocco, Spain, France, and Iceland. You may even complete an internship abroad. Our shorter, faculty-led travel courses include exciting trips to Cuba, Mexico, Iceland, Italy, Kenya, and more.
Learn more about studying abroad at UNE
Financial aid
Take into account whether the institution you're considering offers financial assistance or scholarships to help fund your educational pursuit.
Global Studies majors have no additional cost for studying abroad. In addition, a UNE undergraduate education is very affordable. Our tuition is 16% below the average tuition for private universities in New England. Plus, all incoming full-time undergraduate students at UNE will receive Merit Scholarships in amounts from $5,000 to $22,000 per year.
Learn more about grants and scholarships available to students at UNE