Do I have to study abroad?
Can I start a new language at UMBC for the GLBL language requirement?
Absolutely, as a GLBL major, you are required to complete at least two semesters of language study beyond fulfillment of the UMBC GEP requirement. Many students continue the study of a language already undertaken during high school and/or community college work for their GEP, but others take this opportunity to start something new. Once students have met the 201 language GEP, GLBL students can continue in this language for an additional two semesters, or start a new language- or two! Ultimately, you are urged to be realistic about a plan to finish this requirement. You know your capabilities in this area and so you, your advisor, and your language professor(s) here at UMBC can make the best determination about a workable path.
What if the interdisciplinary courses that I want to take have pre-requisites?
Since the GLBL major is built around coursework from 13 different departments/programs in the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (CAHSS), it is up you to carefully read the requirements for distribution of courses and to carefully choose courses each semester from the schedule of classes. Every GLBL student will have a registration appointment so that guidance can be given in course selection. Pre-requisites and recommended preparation should be taken seriously when choosing courses. A discussion with the professor of the class you wish to take can lead to clarity on whether or not you are ready for it.
Is it required that I complete an internship with this major?
No. An internship experience is strongly recommended, but not required for GLBL majors. Experiential learning (volunteering, internships, research, etc.) prepares you for personal and professional success. The UMBC Career Center and the Shriver Center are excellent resources available to all students.
Can I double major and choose minors in addition to a major in Global Studies?
Yes, you can certainly pair the Global Studies major with another major, minor, or certificate. When deciding on this, keep in mind your GLBL major requirements, especially the foreign language and global experience. It is also important to consider how long it will take to fulfill work in multiple programs. Be sure to secure advising for any additional major, minor, or certificate. The Global Studies Academic Advisor is here to help with your GLBL major.
How can I do research as part of this major?
The GLBL major has a research methods course (GLBL 300) as part of the required course sequence. This class will prepare you to research global topics. If something sparks your curiosity while taking a course, consider exploring it in-depth through research.
What kind of a job can I get when I graduate?
Global Studies is a broad field that prepares students for work in a number of different areas, including economic development, environmental sustainability, law, policy and governance, and public history, among many others. Our alumni go on to work in the public, private, and non-profit spheres. Check our career webpage for more information.
To what type of graduate programs can GLBL majors apply?
Our majors can apply to master’s and doctoral programs in Global Studies and other fields. We have many alumni who went to law school, graduate programs in Anthropology, Economics, Gender and Women’s Studies, Geography, History, Political Science, Sociology, Visual Arts, and beyond. Decisions in this regard are somewhat dependent on course specialization within the major. The global thematic areas help define fields of interest for our majors. Here you can find more information about graduate school.