University of Massachusetts Boston

What you'll study

This programme combines courses from political science, economics, sociology, anthropology and geography to examine the causes and consequences of globalization. Core topics typically include global political economy, international institutions and law, global governance, transnational migration, development policy, and comparative cultural perspectives.

• Core modules: global political economy, international relations theory, research methods for global studies, and comparative public policy.
• Thematic modules: migration and diaspora studies, global development and poverty, human rights and humanitarianism, global environmental politics, and international trade and finance.
• Skills and methods: quantitative and qualitative research methods, policy analysis, foreign language study, and data analysis for social sciences.
• Experiential learning: internship placements with NGOs, public agencies or private sector partners in the Boston region and beyond; community-based projects; and opportunities for study abroad through UMass system partnerships.
• Capstone: a senior seminar or capstone project requiring an original research paper or policy brief that integrates disciplinary perspectives on a globalisation-related problem.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the University of Massachusetts Boston undergraduate programme; applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma (or equivalent) with a record of strong academic performance. Typical preparation includes coursework in social studies, history, mathematics and English. Admissions reviews consider the overall academic record, personal statement, and any supplementary materials.

• Domestic applicants: successful completion of secondary education with recommended coursework in social sciences and strong grades.
• Transfer applicants: submission of college transcripts showing satisfactory performance; relevant college-level coursework may be credited toward the degree.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary-school qualification and proof of English proficiency (for example, accepted scores on recognised English-language tests) where applicable.
• Additional considerations: faculty may look favourably on relevant extracurricular experience (volunteering, internships, language study) and applicants should check specific programme or college pages for any supplementary application materials.

Career prospects

Graduates with a focus on globalization are prepared for a broad range of careers that require analytical, intercultural and policy skills. Many alumni go on to work in:

• international development and humanitarian organisations (programme officer, project coordinator)
• public policy and government agencies (policy analyst, research assistant)
• non-governmental organisations and advocacy groups (researcher, outreach coordinator)
• multinational businesses and consulting firms (market researcher, global business analyst)
• international education, journalism and cultural institutions
• graduate study in international relations, public policy, development studies, law or related social sciences

Why study at University of Massachusetts Boston

UMass Boston offers an urban campus with strong links to public institutions, non-profits and private sector organisations in the Boston area, providing plentiful internship and research opportunities that complement classroom learning. The university’s interdisciplinary approach and access to faculty working on global policy and community-based research make it well suited for students who want applied experience as well as theoretical training.

Students benefit from a diverse student body, supportive advising, language-learning resources and opportunities to connect with the wider UMass system for study abroad and exchange. The programme’s emphasis on practical skills—research methods, policy writing and cross-cultural communication—helps graduates move directly into employment or further study in international fields.