BA in Global Affairs

With a Global Affairs major at Sacred Heart, you will be prepared to make a meaningful contribution to the world as you use your understanding of the diverse influences in different societies to confront and contribute to the resolution of global challenges.

Why Earn Your BA in Global Affairs at Sacred Heart?

Globalization has brought rapid change as citizens, governments, and markets worldwide become increasingly interdependent. The skills you learn as a Global Affairs major at Sacred Heart will help you thrive in this competitive, globalized economy. Students graduate prepared to be global thinkers and citizens, poised to contribute to the human community that transcends borders and boundaries.

The Global Affairs major is an interdisciplinary program that covers courses in international relations, political science, economics, geography, history and sociology.

In the Global Affairs program, you will also:

• Explore the diverse historical, political, cultural, social, religious, and economic influences present in various societies
• Understand contemporary and diverse global problems within their historical, political, cultural, social and linguistic contexts
• Develop and articulate solutions to global problems through critical thinking, analysis, and oral and written communication
• Be mentored by accomplished faculty who provide personal support over the course of your four years
• Experience other cultures and develop foreign language skills through at least one semester in our study abroad program, where you can choose to study in Italy, Costa Rica, Ireland and other locations worldwide
• Analyze the differential effects of political and economic organizations in addressing complex problems in the human and natural worlds
• Enhance your knowledge of world geography and conditions in relation to current events 
• Explain and analyze the ethical, social and environmental consequences of global systems, and identify a range of actions informed by one’s sense of personal and civic responsibility
• Have the opportunity to complete a for-credit internship, either during your study abroad experience or near the SHU campus
• Complete an optional  independent research thesis project under the guidance of a faculty advisor.
• Have the chance to join our vibrant student-run organization, The Model United Nations Club, and Sigma Iota Rho, the International Global Studies Honor Society

Fast track your future

Students who wish to pursue a law degree can apply to the 3+3 Bachelor’s & JD program, a collaboration between Sacred Heart and Seton Hall University or Villanova University.

Dual Degree Program Options for Global Affairs Majors

Sacred Heart University’s dual degree programs provide a defined pathway for incoming freshmen to move seamlessly from an undergraduate to a graduate degree.

While some of our dual degree programs require specific undergraduate majors, others are open to almost all undergraduate disciplines. Apply to a dual degree program as an incoming freshman and you’ll have the opportunity to be admitted directly into the graduate program of your choice at the same time as your admission as an undergraduate student. Students are encouraged to reach out to your admissions counselor to discuss dual degree options.

Graduate prepared for a career or further study

One of the major strengths of the Global Affairs degree is its versatility. While some students continue on to graduate studies, many of our graduates have successfully pursued the following career paths:

• Government agencies
• International trade/business
• International law
• State Department analyst
• Cross-cultural trainer
• Peace Corps worker
• Foreign Service professional
• Relief worker
• International nonprofit professional  
• Intergovernmental Organizations 
• International Nongovernmental Organizations