Minor - Global Studies

The twenty-first century world is one characterized by globalization. The forces of globalization, integration and interdependence, have altered the way human beings interact with one another. World affairs are no longer primarily defined by national boundaries, but by the global integration of resources, ideas and communities. To meet the opportunities and challenges posed by an increasingly interdependent world, the Global Studies Program at California Lutheran University is committed to preparing and educating students to be “leaders in a global society” through their academic coursework and experiential learning opportunities. The Global Studies program offers courses that examine the actors (individuals, countries, non-governmental organizations), ideas and processes that shape the cultural, social, political and economic dimensions of global society. The coursework for this program emphasizes three themes:

Global Ethnic Race, Culture, and Identity

Global Governance and Civil Society, and

Global Economy, Development and Resources.

Thematic courses are used to illustrate how similar issues are understood across different communities in global society. The program offers students an interdisciplinary curriculum that promotes an enhanced appreciation for global diversity (non-Western cultures/societies) and experiential learning. This curriculum offers a balanced exploration of global cultures, histories, and ideologies by dividing courses into Western and Non-Western categories. While Western classes focus on the development of Western thought, institutions, and global influence, Non-Western classes emphasize perspectives rooted in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Indigenous traditions. Students are required to engage with Non-Western frameworks to develop a deeper understanding of diverse worldviews and critically assess global dynamics beyond Euro-American lenses