About

Leadership knows no boundaries. - Former UNCW Chancellor Jose V. Sartarelli

The International Studies major includes courses that provide students with the tools that will help them to live ethical, meaningful and productive lives in the global society of the 21st century. Many modern economic, political and environmental problems transcend national boundaries and demand global solutions.

Students should understand the interconnectedness of peoples and cultures, and understand their world view in relation to the world view of others. Such understanding comes after careful examination other cultures and the global society.

Our program explores the multiple facets that help us examine other cultures including art, literature, globalization and the environment. We also conduct detailed studies of specific regions like Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Latin America.

The problems of the world cannot possibly be solved by skeptics or cynics whose horizons are limited by the obvious realities. We need men who can dream of things that never were. - John F. Kennedy

Student learning outcomes help us better understand our program, its effectiveness and keep us aligned with UNCW's mission.

UNCW Learning Goals: Foundational Knowledge

The student demonstrates foundational knowledge of global issues, processes, trends and policies.

UNCW Learning Goals: Critical Thinking, Information Literacy

The student presents a critically informed evaluation of a specific global issue, process, trend, or policy.

UNCW Learning Goals: Inquiry

The student applies an interdisciplinary methodology in a research project. 

UNCW Learning Goals: Thoughtful Expression

The student presents a clear and concise account of a global issue, process, trend or policy.

UNCW Learning Goals: Second Language

The student demonstrates basic proficiency in a language in addition to English.

UNCW Learning Goals: Global Citizenship

The student describes the intellectual and ethical responsibilities of active global citizenship.

UNCW Learning Goals: Diversity

The student uses diverse cultural frames of reference to accept cultural differences and tolerate cultural ambiguity.

True wisdom comes to each of us when we realize how little we understand about life, ourselves, and the world around us. - Socrates

The mission of the International Studies program is to provide students with critical and inclusive understandings of globalization. Additionally, we cultivate engaged global citizens by offering:

• Training in interdisciplinary perspectives and methodology
• Opportunities for growth in intercultural competency
• Specialized knowledge concentrations in order to prepare them to handle both current and future global challenges across diverse professional fields

Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity. - Martin Luther King, Jr.