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Global Studies Major

Serve the Kingdom of God around the world.

Be prepared to serve in cross-cultural communities in today's contemporary world. The Global Studies major at Houghton, prepares you to explore work in a variety of fields, such as international politics, law, development, economics, linguistics and missions.

Degree Snapshot

Undergraduate - Bachelor's

Degree Types: BA

Program Credits: 124

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What will I learn?

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Through Houghtonโ€™s Global Studies Major, you will:

  • Prepare for todayโ€™s multicultural world through rigorous interdisciplinary study and hands-on, experiential learning opportunities
  • Build a foundation in anthropology and related social sciences methodologies
  • Develop a deep understanding of a particular region of the world
  • Grow your linguistic skills as you study or continue to study a foreign language
  • Ask big questions, think critically, and improve your communication as you wrestle with the complexities of various cultures and people
  • Gain a global perspective as you travel the world through Houghtonโ€™s many off-campus study opportunities or internships

Why study Global Studies at Houghton?

Intercultural Experiences

The intercultural experience is designed to be a flexible and practical. Gain the skills and knowledge to travel almost anywhere. With so many off-campus study opportunities, you might find it hard to choose just one. Many students study abroad several times during their four years at Houghton. Whether it's a formal overseas study program, an internship or another type of arranged program, you'll gain experience traveling the world and engaging with different cultures with the support of like-minded peers and faculty.

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Global Engagement

Experience global engagement through various activities and learning opportunities:

  • Annual Faith and Justice Symposium sponsored by Houghtonโ€™s Center for Faith, Justice and Global Engagement
  • Journeyโ€™s End Tutoring (JET), a Saturday ministry to immigrants and refugees in Buffalo, primarily helping with teaching English
  • Faith and International Development Conference, Calvin College
  • Cornell Institute for African Development Conference, Cornell University

Experienced Faculty

Study with faculty who have extensive experience living, working and serving in cross-cultural settings around the world.ย  They will work with you to help you discover the best locations and right type of training for the work and service you desire most.

Courses & Degree Requirements

Popular Courses


GBS 201 Introduction to Global Studies

In this class, you'll begin exploring the interdisciplinary study of global affairs. You'll learn valuable tools from various disciplines - such as political science, economics, anthropology, history, religious studies, or language. Then you'll use all these different ways of thinking to deeply study one specific region or culture of the world.

INCL 210 Intercultural Competencies

Learn how to succeed when working and living with people from different cultures around the world. You'll discover how to adapt to new cultural settings and understand different ways people think, communicate, and behave. This class will help you see the world through others' eyes. You'll develop important skills that will help you work well with people from all background in a variety of cultural settings.

GBS 312 Social Science Research Methods

Learn how scientists study human behavior and society. You'll discover step-by-step methods for asking and answering questions about why people do what they do. You'll also learn how to collect information, solve common research problems, and make sense of the data you gather.

Degree Options


BA - 124 credits

24-33 credits
Required Courses

91-100 credits
Elective courses + general education

Degree Requirements

What can I do with a degree in global studies?

Career Opportunities

Students earning a BA degree in Global Studies from Houghton University are prepared for careers as:

Requires further education.

Graduate School

Master's degrees options for Global Studies majors:

  • Economics
  • Global Affairs
  • International Development
  • International Relations
  • Law

8%

Career growth for Social & Community Service Managers.

From 2023 to 2033 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Houghton students throwing their graduation caps in the air on the steps of the Chapel.

96%

of Houghton students are employed or in graduate school within 6 months of graduation.

Class of 2023

View Alumni Success and Career Outcomes

Related Majors

Student sitting class looking up in wonder.

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Houghton bible and theology student Elijah Sproull in church.

Bible & Theology

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Ready for what's next?

Discover if earning your degree in Global Studies from Houghton University is right for you.


Questions?