Dominican University of California

What you'll study

This programme combines theory, empirical case studies and applied skills to help you understand how global processes shape societies, economies and the environment. Core topics typically include theories of globalization, international political economy, global governance and human rights. You will study comparative politics and regional specialisations (for example Latin America, Asia or Europe), and explore transnational issues such as migration, trade, development, environmental policy and cultural flows.

• Foundations: introductions to globalization theory, international relations and comparative politics.
• Economic and policy analysis: international political economy, trade and development, global markets and regulation.
• Governance and rights: global governance, human rights, international law and institutions.
• Area studies and language: regional seminars and language study to build contextual knowledge and communication skills.
• Research and methods: qualitative and quantitative methods, research design and a capstone research project or thesis.
• Experiential learning: internships, community-engaged projects and opportunities for study abroad or fieldwork in the Bay Area and internationally.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary school qualifications equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma. Typical requirements include academic transcripts, a personal statement or essay demonstrating interest in global issues, and one or more letters of recommendation. International applicants must meet English-language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or accepted alternatives. Transfer applicants should submit college transcripts; placement in advanced coursework may be possible based on prior study or language competence. Specific GPA expectations and course prerequisites can be confirmed with the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers that require cross-cultural understanding, critical analysis and communication skills. Common pathways include roles with non-governmental organisations, international development agencies, public policy and government, diplomacy, international business and trade, sustainable development, human rights advocacy, journalism, and education. Many students also pursue graduate study in international relations, public policy, law, business or area studies. The programme’s emphasis on internships and applied projects supports direct entry into practicum-based positions and entry-level roles in the Bay Area and beyond.

Why study at Dominican University of California

Dominican offers a liberal arts setting with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, enabling personalised advising and collaborative research. The university’s mission emphasises ethics, social justice and community engagement, which are reflected in coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, Dominican provides access to a wide range of internship sites, international organisations and civic partners. Students benefit from dedicated career and internship services, language study options and pathways for study abroad that enrich classroom learning with practical, real-world experience.