Global Thought

The Master of Science in Global Thought at Columbia University is an interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of complex global issues through a multifaceted academic lens. Rooted in the university’s rich tradition of liberal arts education, this program combines insights from history, politics, philosophy, economics, and cultural studies to foster critical thinking and innovative problem-solving skills. Students will explore the interconnectedness of social, political, environmental, and economic systems across different regions and cultures, preparing them to engage thoughtfully with the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly interconnected world. The curriculum emphasizes the development of analytical abilities, ethical reasoning, and effective communication, enabling graduates to contribute meaningfully to global policy, international development, and cultural understanding. With a strong emphasis on research and experiential learning, students have opportunities to participate in various projects, seminars, and internships that provide practical experience and foster a nuanced perspective on global dynamics. Faculty comprises leading scholars and practitioners dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and supporting students' intellectual growth. Graduates of the Global Thought program will be well-equipped to pursue careers in international organizations, non-governmental agencies, policy analysis, academia, and other fields that benefit from a deep understanding of global issues. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their coursework to their specific interests, ensuring a personalized educational experience that aligns with their professional goals. Through this rigorous and innovative program, Columbia University aims to cultivate a new generation of thoughtful, informed, and engaged global citizens committed to positive change and sustainable development worldwide.

The M.A. in Global Thought degree requires completion of 30 points of course work to be completed in two semesters. Students must work closely with M.A. Faculty Director David K. Park and the Academic Director Sara Brooks to plan an individualized program of study and to ensure that they are progressing toward a timely completion of the program.

The degree requires two Residence Units and completion of 30 points, including the five core courses (Global Governance, Global Political Economy, Global Politics and Culture, and two semesters of the M.A. Thesis Seminar) and five specialization elective courses. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher to remain in good academic standing. Students must demonstrate intermediate proficiency in a language other than English equivalent to four semesters of collegiate study.

Core Curriculum

Five Core Courses

The purpose of the core curriculum is to ensure that every M.A. student in the Global Thought program receives a theoretical, broad-based, interdisciplinary foundation in the concepts behind global thought. Each of the core courses will expose students to a range of approaches, methods, and theories, while allowing them to work directly with leading scholars in global thought. This includes graduate-level course work in trans-national relations, economics, politics, philosophy, and cultural analysis. Students are required to take a one-semester long course in global governance, a one-semester long course in global political economy, a one-semester long course in global politics and culture, and a two-semester long thesis seminar course to help students hone their research interests within a thesis paper.

• Global Governance. Global Governance explores the challenges of governance in a global era, including the international legal order, global public goods, and the mechanisms and processes of global governance.
• Global Political Economy. Global Political Economy explores the economic forces that shape globalization and its effects on different countries and their citizens, from trends in human development to global financial systems and debt crises.
• Global Politics and Culture. Global Politics and Culture explores the impact of globalization on cultural diversity, including cosmopolitanism, feminism and religion in relation to secularism and “tolerance”.
• M.A. Thesis Seminar I and II. M.A. Thesis Seminars are composed of a two-semester sequence that concentrates in the Fall on different research methodologies and disciplinary approaches as well as on the choice of research topic for the thesis. The Spring semester is dedicated to developing the argument and completing the thesis project.

Students choose five specialization elective courses over two semesters, with the advice of the M.A. Faculty Director David K. Park and the Academic Director Sara Brooks. They may choose from courses offered by CGT Faculty as well as from hundreds of available graduate courses across the university. The students shape their own course of study to accommodate and develop their interests. Courses must be taken at 4000-level or higher, except in cases where students can demonstrate, in conjunction with the course’s professor and the M.A. Academic Director, that the course is suitable for a graduate level education.

Students may harmonize their electives with the topic of their thesis, or split their electives between their thesis concentration, global themes, methodological work, or other areas of interest that enhance their intellectual and professional prospects.

Students must demonstrate intermediate proficiency in a language other than English equivalent to four semesters of collegiate study. Students may choose one of two options in which to confirm their language proficiency: Students whose native language is not English may meet the language requirement if they can produce evidence that shows they have completed secondary schooling (high school) or tertiary studies (bachelor’s degree) in an institution where the ordinary language of instruction is not English. They may also submit evidence of professional translation work. Students who cannot provide this evidence, whether native English-speakers or not, will need to document their competence through examination. Ordinarily this will be a Columbia language placement exam or ACTFL recognized qualifying exam. Further details are available upon admission. - See more at: http://cgt.columbia.edu/academics/ma/requirements/#sthash.UAVKiE6a.dpuf

Requirements

• CV
• Transcripts showing courses and grades from all post-secondary schools attended.
• Statement of Academic Purpose not to exceed 1,000 words, emphasizing academic goals, anticipated program of study and expected impact on career.
• Writing sample of maximum 10 pages in English, composed of one piece or a combination of up to three pieces or selections.
• Three letters of recommendation from persons with direct knowledge of the applicant’s academic background and abilities. No more than one letter should be submitted from supervisors or colleagues at an applicant’s place of employment.
• GRE general test scores (strongly recommended but not required).
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)/IELTS is required for all international students whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate degree is from an institution in a country whose official language is not English.
• Language proficiency equivalent to two years of post-secondary study of a language appropriate to the applicant’s plan of study.

The Financing component of the Global Thought program at Columbia University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the financial principles and practices essential for addressing global challenges. The program offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from economics, development studies, and international finance to equip students with the skills necessary to analyze and develop innovative financial solutions for sustainable development and social impact. Students gain knowledge in areas such as global financial markets, investment strategies, economic policy, and financial management within international contexts. The coursework emphasizes practical application through case studies, simulations, and research projects, enabling students to assess financial risks and opportunities across different regions and sectors. The program also explores financial innovations, including impact investing, microfinance, and development finance, which are pivotal in fostering economic growth in underserved communities. Students are encouraged to understand the role of private and public financial institutions and their influence on global development agendas. The program may include workshops, seminars, and collaboration with industry professionals, providing networking opportunities and real-world insights. Financial aid options, scholarships, and assistantships may be available to support students financially during their studies, although specific details depend on the year and availability. Overall, the financing studies within the Global Thought program aim to prepare students to become effective financial strategists and policymakers capable of making a positive impact on global economic development.

The Columbia University Global Thought program is an innovative interdisciplinary initiative designed to address complex global challenges through a comprehensive and integrative approach. This program combines perspectives from various fields such as political science, economics, social sciences, and humanities to foster a deeper understanding of international issues and to develop effective solutions. Students enrolled in the program gain a unique education that emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and global awareness, preparing them to become leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. The curriculum typically includes a mix of core courses, which cover foundational concepts in global affairs, alongside electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as international relations, development, environmental sustainability, and cultural understanding. Columbia’s location in New York City provides students with unparalleled access to a diverse array of diplomatic, NGO, and corporate organizations, allowing for practical internships and experiential learning opportunities that complement academic knowledge. The program also encourages engagement with global networks and collaborations, often including partnerships with institutions abroad to enrich students’ international perspectives. Faculty members involved in the Global Thought program are distinguished scholars and practitioners committed to interdisciplinary teaching and research, ensuring students receive a rigorous and relevant education. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to address today’s most pressing global issues, including climate change, inequality, human rights, and geopolitical conflicts. They often pursue careers in international organizations, government agencies, non-profit sectors, or continue their studies at the graduate level. The program’s emphasis on cross-cultural understanding and innovative problem-solving makes it a distinctive choice for students passionate about making a positive impact worldwide. Overall, Columbia’s Global Thought program aims to cultivate globally conscious leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to navigate and shape an increasingly interconnected world.