Global Studies

UWM's Global Studies program uniquely offers students a blend of courses across disciplines and across colleges at UWM in preparation for a career abroad or within the U.S. that works on matters that cross borders and cultures. Our increasingly interconnected world demands future leaders who have global knowledge and skills including the ability to analyze problems from multiple perspectives and incorporate solutions that are inclusive of different viewpoints and cultures. Interpersonal and intercultural communication skills are also developed through our program as well as advanced competency in a language other than English.

These characteristics are valued by employers across industries and professions and are the launching pad for lifelong career growth and adaptability. There is no single job outcome for global studies graduates - you will find our alumni in all types of positions in locations around the globe. We have alumni who own international start-ups, some who work in a business management role at large multinational corporations, and others who have joined the Peace Corps or an NGO in social service types of positions.

To better serve the diverse career interests of our students, Global Studies majors choose from one of five tracks:

Global Communications - with a focus on language, culture and the technology of modern, global communication (by meeting certain requirements, students can receive a joint degree from both the College of Letters & Science and the College of Community Engagement & Professions)

Global Management - focusing on business and the world economy (a joint degree between the College of Letters & Science and the Sheldon B. Lubar College of Business)

Global Security - dealing with aspects of conflict and change such as water resources, war, human rights, borders, and global health

Global Sustainability - students develop expertise in matters of the environment and government systems

Global Health - a track for students interested in global careers in healthcare, international aid, healthcare policy, international health education, health outreach, and international health regulations (by meeting certain requirements, students can receive a joint degree from both the College of Letters & Science and the College of Health Professions & Sciences)

Students often wonder what the differences are between the Global Studies major and the International Studies major. International Studies is a more traditional broad liberal arts program that does not offer the specialties mentioned above. Courses from the College of Business, the College of Community Engagement & Professions or the College of Health Professions & Sciences cannot count toward the International Studies major like they can for the Global Studies major. Additionally, the Global Studies major requires a higher level of world language fluency (through the sixth semester) and requires an international experience such as study abroad, an international internship, or an internship that takes place domestically but with an international aspect.