COURSE CURRICULUM

Global Studies program at Laurier Waterloo, students gain a broad understanding of the forces shaping the contemporary world, exploring the political, cultural, economic, and social dimensions of global issues. In the first year, students take core courses such as One Planet, Many Worlds and Global Studies: Culture, Conflict, Development, which provide foundational knowledge of global interconnections and challenges. They also choose six additional courses in areas of interest and are required to complete two introductory non-English language courses, fostering cross-cultural communication skills essential for a globalized world. Sample first-year electives include Culture Today, Introduction to Sociology, Economics Without Numbers, Politics Beyond Borders, Revolution in the Modern World, and Literature and Catastrophe, offering students opportunities to explore diverse perspectives on global issues. Upper-year courses build on this foundation, allowing students to examine topics in greater depth through courses such as Global Perspectives on Development, Ideas that Move the World, War, Culture, and Conflict, The Global Economy, Global Migrations, Refugees, and Diasporas, Tourists, Tourism and the Globe, Peacebuilding in the Shadow of War, and UN Sustainable Development Goals. This progression equips students with critical thinking, analytical, and research skills, preparing them for careers in international organizations, public policy, non-governmental organizations, advocacy, and other globally focused professions, while fostering a nuanced understanding of the world’s complexities.