MCLA’s goal of fostering global citizenship among its students will take a major step forward in the Spring 2025 semester as the College debuts its Global and Intercultural Studies major. The major closely aligns with the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education’s Equity Agenda and will enable the College to become an educational leader in implementing curriculum initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. In addition, the program will enhance opportunities for social mobility for underrepresented students by offering global experiences and preparing them for career opportunities in a rapidly changing labor market.
This major includes coursework drawn from across the entire MCLA academic catalog. The major’s foundational coursework includes classes in global and cultural studies, as well as anthropology, communications, history, and political science. Additional elective coursework is pulled from economics, English, environmental studies, finance, philosophy, social work, sociology, and modern languages. The experiential learning requirement can be filled through study abroad, independent study, or an internship.
The program was intentionally structured with an abundance of flexibility, allowing students to craft their own experience to meet their individual interests and career goals. Students will work with Career Services early on in their studies to explore career options to help aid in appropriate course selection.
The goal of the coursework is to help students critically examine complex global issues
and understand how world systems influence and are influenced by struggles for sustainability,
social justice, and intercultural dialogue.
Upon graduation, students will display a nuanced understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives and worldviews, have actively addressed personal and cultural biases, and be able to interact across cultures.
