Students once majored in International Relations for a career in diplomacy or foreign service, but as our world has become smaller, transportation between countries has become easier and quicker, and migration has greatly increased, many Global or International Studies majors use their knowledge of global cultures right here in the United States. A Bachelor’s Degree provides entry into many employment opportunities:
Civil Service: global knowledge is necessary for work in the US and abroad involving trade policy, diplomacy, immigration, and advocacy of human rights.
Foreign Service: Work in US Embassies abroad may involve research and fact-finding to aid an ambassador in preparing for meetings, processing of visas for guest workers, immigrants, and refugees, educating foreign nationals about life in the United States, and other forms of international relations and policy development.
Congress: In order to make laws that reflect the reality of life on the ground, members of Congress need to know the facts. An aide often provides the background research used to debate and create new laws and policies. Aides sometimes handle publicity for Congressional members when it comes to matters of international relations.
Business: Working for a multi-national corporation or a business with extensive global trade requires substantial knowledge of global cultures and norms involving gender, race, and religion. Global Studies graduates work in human resources for companies with factories and subsidiaries outside of the United States. They also serve as consultants for international product marketing and policies affecting diverse, multicultural employees. A Global Studies graduate may also be involved in international customer relations.
Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) and other Charitable Organizations: Relief workers provide emergency aid for people affected by dislocation or lack of resources due to war, famine, natural disasters, and climate change. Policy planners with Global Studies insights can increase the chance that aid is distributed effectively; they also work in training and education.
Journalism: International correspondents and reporters often need the training and background context a Global Studies major affords to report the news accurately and ethically; knowledge of global cultures helps international journalists share their stories with a wide variety of multi-cultural audiences.
Law: A Bachelor’s Degree in Global Studies prepares graduates to be legal assistants in international law firms and with firms in the US that specialize in immigration and trade. Legal assistants often seek further education in preparation for a career in international law.
Translation: In-house translators help organizations, businesses, and government agencies work more effectively. Cultural knowledge makes translation more accurate.