This course introduces the student to the fascinating world in our time. We will learn the basics of international politics, global economy, culture, demography and social life. Through that, we aim to develop skills of understanding the organization of and the interaction among the peoples, as well as the context of the mega trends that are shaping the future of the humankind. We will have ample discussion about some of the current events and their background. As a gateway, this class attempts to inform about the world today and set the stage for further explorations of international affairs.
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. – 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.