Resources
Study Abroad
Global Studies majors are encouraged to have a study abroad experience during the course of their college years. USC students have the opportunity to study abroad for a semester or a year in one of programs offered in over 30 countries. For more information about the study abroad programs available, visit the Overseas Studies website.
Maymester, Julymester & Problems Without Passports
USC provides a range of exceptional opportunities for research and experiential learning off campus, throughout the United States, or even abroad. There are stand alone courses listed in the schedule of classes, which can be taken in May (Maymester), July (Julymester) or during the academic year. Global Studies majors have the opportunity to register for three courses during the spring semester and one course in Maymester. Learn more about student travel abroad here, or search for courses here.
Most, if not all, of the societal problems or challenges we face are transnational or global in nature. These problems like global climate change, pandemics or the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are global challenges that do not belong to a single country. These are “problems without passports.”
USC students have the opportunity to participate in a number of Problems Without Passports (PWP) courses that combine problem-based or inquiry learning research exercises with study in a foreign country, Washington D.C., or Los Angeles. PWP courses are usually offered during the summer. Global Studies students who apply for a PWP program are eligible to apply for the USC Dornsife Summer Undergraduate Research Fund (SURF) which provides students with a research stipend of up to $3000. PWP courses are listed at dornsife.usc.edu/problems-without-passports/.
Regional Studies Centers at USC
Global Studies majors are encouraged to work with the following regional studies centers on campus, if they coincide with their own research areas. Students who want to do research in an area not currently covered by a regional study center can develop individualized plans of study with a regional studies advisor, who will help them to select courses, language preparation and a research project appropriate to their own needs.
Foreign Language Study Options
As part of the USC Dornsife foreign language requirement, Global Studies majors are required to complete the equivalent of four semesters of a single foreign language. Foreign language study is required even of those students who are native speakers of a language other than English, or who have completed two years of secondary school in a language other than English. Being a global citizen requires having communication skills in another language and learning about another way of seeing the world as it is reflected in a foreign language.
The USC Center for Languages and Cultures provides more specific information on the range and levels language instruction and the specific courses available: https://dornsife.usc.edu/center-for-languages-and-cultures/usc-languages/
