What is Global Studies?

Global Studies is an interdisciplinary curriculum that brings together diverse perspectives and methods to analyze the complex relationships between local, national, and global structures.

The knowledge and skills that students build in our curriculum enable developing effective and innovative responses to some of the world’s most critical challenges. Global issues like racial and gender injustice, economic inequality, increasing war and conflict, migration and displacement, and environmental crisis both affect and are affected by a myriad of factors that range greatly in scope: from individual actions, local histories, and grassroots movements to state policies, regional institutions, and international relations.

The Curriculum in Global Studies helps students understand the complexity of these issues by exploring intricate frameworks of analysis drawn from multiple academic disciplines and guided by internationally renowned faculty across more than ten departments at UNC. Global Studies majors are able to use these resources to tailor the curriculum to their individual goals.

Launching a Career With a Degree in Global Studies

The Curriculum in Global Studies combines a global perspective with regional and linguistic expertise and a diverse skill set to prepare students for graduate education and jobs in a variety of fields. The Curriculum’s interdisciplinary training offers flexibility and adaptability that are crucial for continued success in shifting job markets or individual and global circumstances.

Our alumni have pursued successful careers across the public and private sectors, including in governmental and non-governmental organizations, foreign service, and law to healthcare, global business, and consulting.

For a few examples of the professional pathways that a degree in Global Studies can open, read about our alumni below.

Global Impact and Innovation: Career Insights from our Alumni

Meet our alumni: Sarah Osborne and Sasha Seymore

Global Studies Builds Adaptability for Complex Careers

Both alumni emphasized that careers rarely follow a straight line. Sasha Seymore’s journey spanned professional basketball, consulting, and entrepreneurship, while Sarah Osborne moved from teaching abroad to education policy and nonprofit leadership. She noted that “Every job is an opportunity to learn what energizes you.” Their stories show how Global Studies’ interdisciplinary approach prepares graduates to pivot across sectors and roles.

Experiment Before Committing

Instead of rushing into graduate school or a “perfect” job, students were encouraged to test different roles to discover what fits. Sasha Seymore recommended using a design-thinking approach: test hypotheses about what excites you through internships, informational interviews, or short-term roles. “You don’t know what you love until you try it,” he said.

Skills That Stand Out in Today’s Market

Employers value demonstrated passion and specificity. Sasha noted that candidates who show clear interest in a company’s mission—and maintain authentic connections—stand out more than those who submit generic applications. Sarah added that language skills, international experience, and adaptability—hallmarks of a Global Studies education—are highly prized.

Navigating Uncertainty with Global Competence

The panel acknowledged the volatility of today’s job market but encouraged students to stay open-minded. Sarah highlighted that AI literacy is becoming a differentiator across industries, while Sasha reminded students that “the serious job will always be there—don’t be afraid to take risks and explore.” Global Studies graduates, with their ability to analyze systems and engage across cultures, are well-positioned to thrive.

Learn more about our alumni here →

“The year I spent studying abroad in Seville, Spain was transformative for me. I still remember feeling intensely alive as my senses were bombarded with new sights, sounds and smells. Being outside my comfort zone was both unsettling and exhilarating and helped me to grow as a person. Three decades later, I have more memories of that year in Seville than of my other three years of college combined.” Read more.

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