International & Global Studies | The University of the South

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Wherever you are in the world, life in the 21st century is a global experience. Being able to learn, live, conduct business, and speak cross-culturally are skills that prove invaluable in every walk of life.

Why International and Global Studies at Sewanee?

International & Global studies at Sewanee stretches far beyond the gates. Involving 45 faculty members in 14 departments across the college, the program spans disciplinary and thematic boundaries. It’s easy to see why IGS is the fastest growing major on campus.

The rapid pace and complex nature of our world requires dexterity to navigate. At Sewanee, you will study the ever-changing issues of political, economic, and cultural forces that characterize our world today. You’ll work collaboratively and independently, focusing on topics and regions that will promote an enhanced understanding of distinct perspectives and their value. Here, experiencing the real world begins in the classroom.

FIRST DESTINATIONS: International & Global Studies MAJORS

Sewanee graduates secure positions in a variety of fields. Some you would expect, others, are a bit of a surprise. Sewanee prepares you for your profession and your passion. Below is a sampling of recent graduates' first job.

Language Assistant, Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport, A Coruña, Spain.

GRADUATE SCHOOL & PREPROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS: INTERNATIONAL & GLOBAL STUDIES MAJORS

Sewanee graduates enjoy extraordinary acceptance rates to top graduate and preprofessional programs–about 95 percent to law school and over 85 percent to medical school. Below is a sampling of where Sewanee grads continue their education.

M.A. in Conflict Studies, Kings College London.

A Sampling of Courses

Media and Globalization

International and Global Studies

This course introduces students to some of the most significant sources contributing to shared cultural patterns in our globalizing world. It uses a variety of contemporary media, including documentary and narrative film, digital media, hip hop music, and other cultural expressions to examine and explore local/global dynamics, cross-border flows, and changing identities and values. Students learn to analyze the relationship between media forms and cultural contexts in many different parts of the world.

INGS 100

Globalization, Popular Culture, and Politics in West Africa

International and Global Studies

This course explores the relationship between popular culture and politics in the context of globalization in West African societies. It focuses on how popular sport, music, dance, film and other forms of popular culture and recreation inform and shape political action and participation. Long a meeting point of global and local currents, West Africa allows for examining how the creative mixing of local and foreign ideas facilitates nationalism and democratic citizenship, and offers the possibility of transformation in the social politics of gender and generational relations.

INGS 207

The Global Financial Crisis: Causes and Effects

International and Global Studies

This course introduces students to some prominent ways of theorizing the contemporary global financial architecture. It charts the historical role of finance, or investment capital, in shaping the economic forces of globalization. Exploring the theoretical and practical role that financial investment plays in capitalism and economic growth, the course investigates whether this role has changed with the greater economic integration and capital mobility associated with "neoliberal globalization." Students can understand "capital investment" not merely as a financial bet on the future, but as an emotional and psychological one as well.

INGS 301

Brazilian Tropicália: The Myth and Reality of an Emerging Power

International and Global Studies

A comprehensive study of perhaps the most democratic and developed of the so-called BRIC nations. Readings and topics include Brazilian history; political institutions and parties; the economy; social movements; ethnic diversity (including indigenous, Portuguese and African influences on Brazilian culture and society); sustainability and the environment; the planned city of Brasilia; literature; music; art; salient political and cultural figures. Conducted as an on-site, study abroad summer offering.

INGS 310

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International & Global Studies

Programs of Study

Requirements for Major & Minor in International & Global Studies

Contact

Nicholas E. Roberts

Associate Professor of History, IGS Chair

nerobert@sewanee.edu

Walsh-Ellett Hall 309, Ext. 1767

Connecting the Dots

Study Abroad

Engaged citizens solving global problems

At Sewanee, we pledge to offer each student an opportunity to study abroad. And at Sewanee, we keep our promises. Travel, learn, and cultivate your knowledge by communicating across cultures and acquiring a sensitivity to other ways of life. Apply social scientific methodologies to various frameworks. Learn to formulate solutions to global problems and apply those theories at home in a local context.

More about Study Abroad

Babson Center for Global Commerce

Sewanee grads are exactly what companies are looking for

The Babson Center for Global Commerce provides a co-curricular experience. As you engage with peers and take trips, you’ll learn about what companies are seeking. You’ll learn critical thinking and persuasive communication, all the while becoming enlightened and demystifying the “go to work” experience.

Career and Leadership Development

Unsure? You've come to the right place.

No matter where you are in your career exploration process, Career and Leadership Development can help. You’ll get assistance with cover letters, resumes, networking, and preparing for an interview. Likewise, if you just feel overwhelmed by this new experience called adulting, swing by the office and get a pep talk from the CLD office.