University of Michigan

What you'll study

This programme combines social science and humanities perspectives to examine how globalization shapes states, markets, communities and identities. Core topics typically include theories of globalisation, international political economy, global governance, human rights, migration, transnational social movements and environmental sustainability.

• Core courses: approaches to globalisation, research methods for international studies, and comparative institutions.
• Thematic concentrations: options often include development and inequality, security and conflict, trade and finance, culture and media, and environment and sustainability.
• Regional specialisation: students choose a geographic focus — for example Africa, Latin America, Europe, East Asia, South Asia or the Middle East — to build contextual knowledge and language skills.
• Language requirement: sustained language study is typically required or strongly encouraged to support research and professional work abroad.
• Electives and skills: courses in statistics, econometrics, GIS, qualitative methods, international law, and area studies are commonly available to develop analytical and technical skills.
• Capstone or practicum: most students complete a senior capstone project, thesis or an experiential practicum such as an internship, field research project or study abroad placement.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Michigan is competitive and based on academic performance across a broad secondary-school programme. Typical successful applicants present strong grades in humanities and social sciences, evidence of critical thinking, and engagement beyond the classroom.

• Completed secondary school qualification appropriate for admission to U.S. universities.
• Transcripts demonstrating academic breadth and strength; recommended preparation includes social studies, history, mathematics and at least one foreign language.
• Personal statement and supplementary materials that explain interests in global issues and relevant experiences (community work, travel, language study, Model UN, etc.).
• Letters of recommendation as required by the university.
• For international applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency through an accepted test or other university-approved evidence.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and a record of successful university-level coursework; specific transfer credit policies apply.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree focused on globalisation move into a wide range of careers where cross-border knowledge and analytical skills are valued. The programme prepares students for roles in public, private and non-profit sectors.

• International organisations and non-governmental organisations (programme officer, policy analyst, field coordinator).
• Government and diplomatic service (foreign service, policy advisor, trade and development agencies).
• Private sector roles with multinational firms (market analyst, international project manager, corporate social responsibility).
• Research, journalism and communications focused on global affairs.
• Further professional study in law, public policy, international development or graduate programmes in international relations and related fields.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers access to a large, interdisciplinary faculty and a network of research centres dedicated to international and area studies, which enrich teaching and provide research and internship opportunities. Students benefit from strong language programmes, study-abroad partnerships, and connections to policy networks and NGOs through the university's international institutes.

Located in Ann Arbor, the university provides a vibrant academic environment with resources for experiential learning, field research support, and an active alumni community working in international affairs worldwide — all useful for launching careers that engage with globalisation.