University of Minnesota

What you'll study

The programme offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that blends social science theory with practical skills for analysing transnational phenomena. Core topics typically include theories of globalization, international political economy, global governance, development studies, migration and transnational migration, global health, and environmental politics. Students develop methodological skills through research methods courses in qualitative and quantitative analysis, and a capstone or senior thesis integrates disciplinary approaches on an original project.

Language study is an important element: most students take progressive courses in a modern language to build communicative competence and regional expertise. Typical modules and course types you can expect include:

• Introduction to Globalization and Global Studies
• Comparative Politics and International Relations
• Global Political Economy and Trade
• Development Policy and Practice
• Migration, Diaspora and Transnationalism
• Global Environmental Politics and Sustainability
• Methods for Global Research: statistics, field methods and qualitative techniques
• Regional or thematic electives (e.g. Latin American politics, East Asian development, African studies, gender and globalisation)
• Capstone seminar or supervised honours thesis

Students are also encouraged to take electives across the University, for example in public policy, business, public health or area studies, and to participate in study abroad, internships or community-engaged projects to gain practical international experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Minnesota undergraduate degree follows the institution’s standard undergraduate application process. Typical applicants will present a secondary school diploma or equivalent with competitive academic performance and a curriculum that demonstrates strong preparation in humanities, social sciences and language study. Admissions is selective and considers the overall academic record, personal statement, and any required supporting materials.

International applicants are required to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives unless exempt. Some programmes or scholarships may expect demonstrated interest in international affairs, relevant extracurricular activities, work or volunteer experience, and, for applicants seeking honours-level work, evidence of strong academic ability in social science subjects. Specific prerequisites and recommended preparation are provided by the University’s admissions office and the department.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in Globalization are prepared for a range of careers in public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include roles in international development agencies, non-governmental organisations, diplomatic and foreign service work, policy analysis, international business and trade, corporate social responsibility, and global public health. The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in international relations, public policy, development studies, business, law or area studies.

Students often gain employability through internships with local and international organisations, project work with community partners in the Twin Cities, and connections to University career services. Employers value the analytical skills, cross-cultural awareness, language ability and research experience this programme develops.

Why study at University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota offers a large, research-intensive environment with access to interdisciplinary expertise across political science, economics, anthropology, public affairs and the health sciences. Students benefit from proximity to the Twin Cities, which hosts international companies, consulates, NGOs and a lively immigrant and refugee community—creating diverse internship and fieldwork opportunities.

The University’s language programmes, study abroad and exchange partnerships, and research centres provide pathways to deepen regional specialisms and practical experience. Faculty research, community partnerships and career support help students translate academic study into applied skills valued by employers and postgraduate programmes.