Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

This programme combines courses from political science, economics, sociology, history and cultural studies to explore how global forces shape societies and institutions. Core topics typically include theories of globalisation, international political economy, global governance, development and inequality, migration and transnational communities, human rights, and comparative politics. Students also study research methods and data analysis to prepare for policy or academic work.

• Core modules: theories of globalisation, international institutions, global political economy, research methods.
• Regional and topical modules: area studies (such as Latin America, Europe or Asia), migration and diaspora studies, environment and sustainability, conflict and peacebuilding.
• Skills and language: foreign language study, quantitative and qualitative methods, writing for policy and cross-cultural communication.
• Experiential learning: internship or practicum placements, community-based research projects, and options for faculty-led study abroad or exchange.
• Capstone: senior seminar or honours project that integrates disciplinary perspectives and original research on a globalisation topic.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education equivalent to a high-school diploma. Typical admissions criteria include a combination of academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in global issues, and letters of recommendation. Mature or transfer applicants are considered with appropriate college-level work or professional experience.

International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent evidence of previous study in English. Specific course prerequisites are uncommon, but background in social studies, history, economics or a language is beneficial.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Common destinations include international and national non-governmental organisations, diplomatic and consular services, international development agencies, global business and trade, policy research institutes, and education. The degree also provides solid preparation for postgraduate study in international relations, public policy, law, business or development studies.

Practical elements—such as internships, language skills and a capstone project—help graduates develop employable skills in analysis, cross-cultural communication, programme coordination and research, which are valued by employers working in transnational contexts.

Why study at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s offers a small, liberal-arts environment with an emphasis on personalised teaching and community engagement. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, opportunities for experiential learning through internships and community partnerships, and access to metropolitan internship sites in the Twin Cities region. The university’s interdisciplinary approach and values-based education support ethical reflection on global challenges, while language instruction and study-abroad options allow students to build practical international experience.

The programme is suited to students who want both theoretical grounding and hands-on opportunities to prepare for careers that navigate complex global systems or for further academic study.