We are citizens in a world community of nearly six billion people. It is a complex community with increasing human needs pressing upon clear environmental limits; it poses dangers and opportunities; and it presents prospects for change far beyond those most peoples have ever been called upon to face. Local issues have become planetary in their implication. Consequently, for any of us to live a full and responsible life in this world, we need to become aware of the ways in which it affects our lives and, at the same time, reflects our actions and those of our neighbors. We need to translate these realities into an educational setting so that individual students can become aware of the ways they are bound to other peoples and to nature.
The response of the Department of Politics and Government at Illinois State University has been to develop a global studies concentration. It directs students toward academic experiences likely to increase their awareness of global affairs and to prepare them for international careers. Students who wish to concentrate in global studies have a number of options that allow them to satisfy academic and career objectives. The global concentration gives both a strong liberal education and a certificate for completing the program.
The concentration can help students prepare for international careers, as well as work in local environments that are globally connected, including positions in the US government or with multinational corporations, international finance and banking institutions, public relations, and international organizations. The Global Studies concentration also helps prepare students for graduate studies in international relations, and to position themselves competitively, early in their career development.
For more information, interested students should see their poltical science advisor.