Global Studies

The Bachelor of Science in Global Studies at Carnegie Mellon University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of global issues impacting societies, economies, and cultures around the world. This program is designed for students who are passionate about addressing complex international problems such as globalization, climate change, human rights, and international security. Throughout their academic journey, students will engage with a diverse curriculum that combines social sciences, humanities, and policy analysis to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and cross-cultural competence. The program emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to participate in internships, research projects, and study abroad opportunities that provide real-world insights into international affairs. Faculty members are experts in areas like political science, economics, sociology, and environmental studies, guiding students through multidisciplinary approaches to understanding global phenomena. The curriculum covers key topics such as global governance, economic development, cultural diversity, and ethical considerations in international policy-making. Students are also trained in research methods, data analysis, and effective communication to prepare them for careers in government agencies, non-governmental organizations, international corporations, or further graduate study. The program aims to produce graduates who are knowledgeable about global systems, equipped with problem-solving skills, and committed to making a positive impact on the world stage. With its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and practical experience, Carnegie Mellon’s Global Studies program provides a solid foundation for students aspiring to become global citizens and leaders in an increasingly interconnected world.

Students graduating with a primary major in Global Studies receive a Bachelor of Arts degree.  Global Studies may also be taken as an additional (e.g., second) major.  Required courses include 79-104 plus 93 additional units (including 79-275 and 79-400) and proficiency in a modern language other than English. Students may double count a maximum of two courses taken for the Global Studies major that are also being used to fulfill the requirements of other majors and programs. Students should consult with the Global Studies academic program manager (see above) about new courses and study abroad courses that may be approved for students pursuing the major in Global Studies.

I. Required General Education Course (9 units) 

II. Global Studies Introductory Course (9 units)

Students must earn a final grade of "C" or better for the course to count toward the major.

III. Language Requirement

Demonstrating intermediate to advanced level proficiency in a language other than English is a crucial component of the major in Global Studies. Normally this requirement can be satisfied by successfully completing a course conducted in the second language at the 300 level or above for French, German, Italian, or Spanish, or the fourth semester (Intermediate II) level or above for Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, or Russian. Comparable proficiency for other languages can be considered. Additional advanced cultural, historical, and literary study in the second language is strongly recommended. Courses in a language other than English may also be counted as Global Studies transnational, global, or regional courses or Global Studies electives as appropriate.

IV. Theoretical and Topical Core Courses (18 units)

To gain a solid foundation in the theories, methods, and analytical topics underpinning the major in Global Studies, students select 18 units (typically two classes) from the core courses listed below.  Students must earn a final grade of "C" or better in these courses to fulfill the theoretical and topical core course requirement. 

V. Transnational, Global, and Regional Courses (27 units)

To gain insight into how complex transnational and global processes shape and are affected by local, national, and regional dynamics, students will select 27 units (typically three courses) from any subcategories below. 

Transnational and Global Courses 

Regional Courses  

(27 units)VI. Elective Courses

Students are required to take an additional 27 units (typically 3 courses) of electives, selected from one or both of the subcategories below. Category IV and V courses listed above that are not used to fulfill those requirements may be counted as electives in addition to the courses listed below. 

Global Studies offers students the opportunity to gain credit for a 9 unit elective while gaining first-hand experience interning with Pittsburgh-based organizations that work across borders.  79-506 Global Studies Internship is offered every semester and students should register for the course after consulting with the academic advisor and faculty director. The faculty director will assist students with matching their interests to local organizations and identifying an on-site supervisor available to collaborate in the ongoing and final evaluation of the student's work.

Thematic Elective Courses 

Nation–based Elective Courses 

 VII. Senior Capstone Course (12 units)

The research seminar is the capstone course for Global Studies majors and is designed to give students the chance to define and carry out a research project of personal interest. Students are strongly encouraged to incorporate their prior coursework (including foreign language training), study abroad or internships into their research. Students must earn a final grade of "C" or better for the course to count toward the major.

Global Studies Major — Sample Curriculum

This sample curriculum represents a plan for completing the requirements for the Global Studies major.  Global Studies students are encouraged to spend a semester abroad and the plan below demonstrates that study abroad fits well into the curriculum.  Students may declare the Global Studies major and take appropriate courses as early as the second semester of the freshman year and as late as the junior year, and should consult frequently with the Global Studies academic program manager (see above) about their course of study in Pittsburgh and possibly abroad.

 *Spring semester of the junior year is a popular semester for study abroad.  However, Global Studies majors may instead choose to study abroad in spring of sophomore year, fall of junior year, or fall of senior year.  Students should discuss study abroad and curricular planning with the academic program manager.

 **Students are not required to complete a college honors thesis. However, many Global Studies majors choose to apply for the senior honors thesis program.  Students who do not pursue a senior honors thesis should select an elective in its place.

• Common Application
• $75 application fee*
• Official high school transcript (please review our Academic Requirements)**
• Secondary School Counselor Evaluation
• Teacher Recommendation
• Common Application essay and personal statement
• All fine arts applicants to the Schools of Architecture, Art, Design, Drama and Music are required to arrange an audition or portfolio review.
• Home schooled applicants should submit an academic portfolio/transcript consistent with their state guidelines and a list of all textbooks used.
• Applicants must provide proof of meeting all requirements for an official high school diploma, by the end of May of the year of graduation, and submit an official final transcript, GED or certificate of completion from your local school district or state board of education by the end of July of the year of matriculation.
• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is required if your native language is not English. Carnegie Mellon requires TOEFL scores of 102 or better on the internet-based TOEFL (as of Fall 2010) or an IELTS score of 7.5 and above. Carnegie Mellon carefully reviews the sub-scores of each of these exams and considers those candidates with reading, listening, speaking and writing sub-scores of 25 or more on TOEFL and 7.5 or more on IELTS to be candidates with high levels of English proficiency. Please arrange to have these scores sent no later than January 1st. Carnegie Mellon's TOEFL code is 2074.
• InitialView interviews are recommended for non-native English speakers but are not required. Often these interviews can measure readiness for engagement in the classroom and also showcase a student’s personality, likes and dislikes as well as the area of intended major. InitialView interviews can show English language proficiency while also corroborating the application with more details about the student.
• If your secondary school transcript or any other admission document is written in a language other than English, it should be accompanied by an official translation and verified by a counselor or school official to be true copies of the original.
• If you are preparing for the International Baccalaureate or the General Certificate of Education (GCE) A-level examinations, please send your expected exam results.

The Global Studies program at Carnegie Mellon University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for undergraduate programs are determined annually and are comparable to other leading institutions in the United States, reflecting the university's commitment to providing a high-quality education. In addition to federal and state financial aid programs, Carnegie Mellon provides various institutional scholarships and merit-based awards for outstanding students. These scholarships are competitive and are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and commitment to global issues.

Students are encouraged to explore external sources of funding such as private scholarships, grants, and fellowships related to international studies and global development. The university also offers financial aid counseling to help students identify suitable funding opportunities tailored to their needs. Work-study programs and on-campus employment are available to help students offset educational expenses while gaining valuable experience. Carnegie Mellon’s Office of Financial Aid provides comprehensive support in navigating the application processes for loans, grants, and scholarships.

International students pursuing the Global Studies program can access specific funding options, including international student scholarships and grants, designed to support their educational pursuits. The program’s interdisciplinary nature may also open up specialized funding avenues through research projects, conferences, and partnerships with global organizations. Moreover, students are encouraged to participate in programs that combine fieldwork and internships, which may offer stipends or stipended positions to assist with living expenses.

Overall, Carnegie Mellon’s approach to financing emphasizes reducing financial barriers and supporting student success through a mix of institutional aid, external scholarships, and employment opportunities. Detailed information on tuition, fees, and application procedures for financial aid can be found through the university’s official financial aid office resources. Prospective students are advised to apply early and complete all necessary documentation to maximize their chances of receiving aid and funding for the duration of their studies in the Global Studies program.

Global Studies at Carnegie Mellon University offers an interdisciplinary exploration of complex global issues through the integration of social sciences, humanities, and international perspectives. The program aims to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of global interconnectedness, promoting critical thinking about international development, geopolitics, culture, and environmental challenges. Students engage with diverse topics such as international relations, global economics, cross-cultural communication, security studies, and sustainable development, preparing them for careers in international organizations, diplomacy, policy analysis, research, and global non-profit sectors. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical skills, intercultural competence, and a nuanced understanding of the political and economic forces shaping the world today. Students have opportunities to participate in study abroad programs, internships, and collaborative research projects, integrating practical experience with academic learning. Faculty members bring expertise from various disciplines, ensuring a multi-dimensional approach to global issues. The program emphasizes experiential learning and critical engagement with contemporary global challenges, encouraging students to become informed global citizens and effective decision-makers. Graduates of the program are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers across governmental agencies, international NGOs, private sector firms involved in international trade and consulting, and further academic pursuits such as graduate or professional studies. Carnegie Mellon’s location and institutional connections provide unique opportunities for networking, internships, and collaborative projects with international organizations and governmental bodies. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations and the importance of diverse perspectives in developing solutions to complex global problems. Overall, Global Studies at Carnegie Mellon prepares students to understand the interconnected world, analyze global issues critically, and contribute meaningfully to international development and diplomacy.