University of Virginia

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary degree combines courses from the social sciences, humanities and professional schools to explore how people, goods, ideas and institutions move across borders. Students build a core understanding of global structures and processes while specialising in thematic or regional strands.

• Core themes: global political economy, international security, transnational migration, development and inequality, global governance and human rights.
• Methods and theory: research methods for global studies, comparative approaches, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and critical theories of globalization.
• Regional and area studies: focused study of regions such as Latin America, Africa, Asia, Europe or the Middle East through language study and area-specific seminars.
• Language requirement: sustained language study to competence in a language of global or regional relevance.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior seminar or capstone research project, plus opportunities for internships, community engaged projects and study abroad exchanges to apply classroom learning.
• Electives: courses drawn from economics, political science, history, sociology, anthropology, environmental studies and business to allow thematic specialisation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to present a strong secondary‑school academic record with evidence of readiness for a rigorous liberal arts curriculum. Typical application components include academic transcripts, a personal statement, and school or teacher recommendations.

Successful candidates often demonstrate:

• rigorous course selection in secondary school (including humanities, social sciences and mathematics where offered);
• evidence of interest in international issues such as relevant extracurricular activities, community service, language study, travel or independent research;
• competence in a second language is beneficial and may be required for certain programme tracks;
• where standardised tests are submitted, scores that reflect readiness for university‑level study; international applicants must meet English proficiency expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates of a Globalization/Global Studies programme move into a wide range of careers that require cross‑cultural understanding, analytical skills and the ability to work on complex transnational problems. Common pathways include:

• international organisations and NGOs (programme management, policy analysis, advocacy);
• diplomacy and foreign service roles or positions in consulates and multilateral institutions;
• international business, trade compliance, supply‑chain and market analysis roles;
• consulting, risk analysis and policy advising for government and private sector clients;
• journalism, communications and public affairs with a global focus;
• further academic study in law, public policy, international relations, development studies or area studies.

Why study at University of Virginia

The University of Virginia offers a strong liberal arts environment with an interdisciplinary approach to global issues, drawing on expertise across arts and sciences and professional schools. Students benefit from small‑seminar teaching, faculty who are active researchers on international topics, and a wide range of language courses and study‑abroad partnerships.

Additionally, the university provides access to career services, internship placement support and alumni networks in government, international organisations and the private sector, enabling students to translate academic learning into practical experience and professional opportunities.