Rockford University

What you'll study

This programme combines social science theory, regional studies, qualitative and quantitative research methods, language study and applied experience. You will follow a progressive curriculum that moves from core foundations to specialised topics and a capstone project.

• Core modules: Introduction to Globalization; Global Political Economy; Comparative Politics and Governance; Research Methods for Global Studies.
• Thematic modules: Migration and Diaspora Studies; Global Development and Inequality; International Institutions and Law; Cultural Globalization and Media.
• Skills and methods: Statistics for Social Scientists; Qualitative Field Methods; Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation.
• Language study: Continued study of a modern language (such as Spanish, Chinese or French) or intensive language options to build communicative competence.
• Experiential learning: Internship in an NGO, public agency or business; community-based projects; and opportunities for embedded fieldwork or local partnerships.
• Capstone: Senior seminar and a research or applied capstone project that demonstrates integration of theory and practice, often developed with a faculty supervisor and external partner.

The degree is taught through seminars, lectures, small-group tutorials and applied placements. Students are encouraged to take electives across economics, sociology, environmental studies, and business to customise their degree.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires a successful high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions looks for strong performance in humanities or social-science subjects and demonstrated interest in global affairs, which can be shown through coursework, personal statement and references.

• Academic: Secondary school completion with satisfactory grades in relevant subjects.
• English language: If English is not your first language, a recognised English proficiency qualification is required (for example IELTS or TOEFL) or equivalent evidence of English-medium education.
• Supporting materials: Personal statement outlining interest in globalization and international issues, and at least one academic reference. Admissions interviews or short written tasks may be used in some cases.
• Advanced standing: Transfer students with previous university credits or students with International Baccalaureate/Advanced Placement qualifications should submit transcripts for credit assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with analytical, research, communication and intercultural skills valued across public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include:

• International development and humanitarian NGOs
• Public policy, diplomacy and government services
• Global corporate roles in international business, supply chain and market analysis
• Research, advocacy and think tanks focused on migration, trade or environmental policy
• International education, cultural organisations and journalism
• Further study at postgraduate level in international relations, public policy, development studies or business

Internships, the capstone project and study-abroad experiences help students build professional networks and practical experience to enter these fields.

Why study at Rockford University

Rockford University offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, enabling personalised supervision of research and internships. The institution emphasises experiential learning—students routinely complete internships, community-engaged projects and study-abroad placements that complement classroom learning.

Located within reach of a major metropolitan region, students can access regional organisations, cultural institutions and businesses for placements and networking. The university’s career services and internship office provide support in preparing applications, connecting with employers, and translating academic experience into professional opportunities. Faculty in the department bring interdisciplinary expertise across political science, economics, sociology and area studies, providing a broad foundation for students pursuing global careers.