Bachelor's in Liberal and Interdisciplinary Studies - International and Global Affairs and Development

Explore the forces shaping our interconnected world. The International and Global Affairs and Development concentration within UNC Greensboro’s Bachelor of Arts in Liberal and Interdisciplinary Studies (LIS) degree examines global issues through political, economic, social, cultural, and environmental perspectives. You’ll study relationships among nations, regions, and communities while developing the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to understand international development, sustainability, public policy, global health, and conflict in a rapidly changing world.

The International and Global Affair and Development concentration is one of six concentrations available through the International and Global Studies (IGS) program. Our interdisciplinary, liberal arts approach promotes skills in research, critical thinking, and communication that ensure students can analyze, evaluate, and express positions on international and global issues and the complexity and interconnectedness of world regions and populations.

International and Global Affairs and Development Concentration Highlights

• Examine global issues through an interdisciplinary lens. Study international relations, economic development, sustainability, public policy, human and environmental health, and peace and conflict through coursework drawn from the social sciences and humanities.
• Explore the forces shaping an interconnected world. Analyze how nations, regions, organizations, and communities interact across political, economic, cultural, and environmental systems.
• Develop skills valued in a global society. Strengthen your abilities in research, critical analysis, communication, and evaluating complex international issues from multiple perspectives.
• Customize your studies across disciplines. Build a broad understanding of world affairs through courses in areas such as political science, economics, geography, history, sociology, public health, anthropology, and foreign languages. IGS courses span more than 30 departments and programs across campus.
• Join a program recognized for academic excellence and global engagement. Students regularly earn membership in Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Beta Delta, complete UNCG’s Global Leadership Program, and compete for prestigious international scholarships and awards, such as Fulbright research and teaching awards and U.S. State Department Critical Language Scholarships.

The International and Global Affairs and Development STUDENT EXPERIENCE

• Complete a meaningful senior research project. Work closely with a faculty mentor to investigate an international or global issue related to your academic interests and concentration.
• Gain firsthand global and intercultural experience. All students complete an international or global experience, often through study abroad, to strengthen intercultural understanding and global awareness.
• Build advanced foreign language skills. Develop proficiency in a modern foreign language and enhance your ability to communicate across cultures. You will complete at least six credits of advanced foreign language.
• Apply your knowledge through service and professional experiences. Many students volunteer or complete internships with organizations serving immigrant and refugee communities, gaining practical experience while making an impact.
• Develop intercultural competence. Through coursework, language study, community engagement, and international experiences, learn to navigate cultural differences and collaborate effectively in global settings.

AFTER GRADUATINg with A B.A. in LiBeral & Interdisciplinary Arts — International and Global Affairs and Development Degree

The International and Global Affairs and Development concentration within UNC Greensboro’s Bachelor of Arts in Liberal and Interdisciplinary Studies prepares graduates to address complex global challenges. Students develop skills in research, communication, critical thinking, intercultural competence, and foreign language proficiency.

Graduates pursue careers in international development, government, nonprofit organizations, public policy, global health, advocacy, and community development. Some work with organizations focused on sustainability, humanitarian assistance, immigration, and refugee services. Many graduates continue their education in graduate and professional programs. Common fields include international affairs, public policy, law, public health, sustainable development, and education.

Potential Career Paths