This course introduces the student to the fascinating world affairs of our time. The student will have the opportunity to learn the basics of international politics, economy and sociocultural life, and develop the skills and experience to understand the context of the mega trends in the world today. A focus is on the major news stories and their historical and political background. It is a lecture-based course but in-class discussions are a critical part.
This course should direct students toward a broad Orienting Question:
How do I understand human experiences and connections?
Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcome:
Students will effectively analyze the complexity of human behavior, and how historical, economic, political, social, or geographic relationships develop, persist, or change.
Course content, activities, and exercises in this course should help students develop the following Career-Ready Competencies:
· Intercultural Competence
· Perspective-Taking
· Persuasion
McCormick, John. Introduction to Global Studies. (3rd Edition). Bloomsbury UK, 2025. (IGS) – available online. https://www.bloomsburyonlineresources.com/introduction-to-global-studies-3e/student-resources
Handout readings will be posted on Canvas
Requirement Marks (%)
First Test 300 30
Second Test 300 30
Third Test 300 30
Attendance and Participation 100 10
Total 1,000 100
Two unexcused absences will incur penalty.
Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.
This is a Core IMPACTS course that is part of the Social Sciences area
Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic areas. This course will help students master course content, and support students’ broad academic and career goals.