Global Studies

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Program Spotlight

The Global Studies degree promotes an understanding of the intersection between cultural, historical, economic, political, geographical, and philosophical processes across the globe. Students are taught to examine the interconnectedness of global issues in both the current and historical context and apply this lens to real-world scenarios.

In addition to global studies courses, students will also choose courses from the five content areas of exploration in our global studies program.

A pentagon displaying the five connected content areas of culture and society, humanities, geography, politics and economics.

Culture & SocietyGeographyEconomicsPoliticsHumanities

We live in a world where some people are connected by just the tap of a smart phone, while others spend each day without running water or electricity. Ever wonder why this is - and what this means for us as humans in the 21st century? Try Global Studies!

Global Studies investigates and unpacks the many ways that globalization and world trends have shaped the human experience. With coursework in history, economics, geography, political science, philosophy, anthropology, and humanities, the Global Studies program at Skyline College gives students a robust examination of global issues, while also allowing for student-focused inquiry with choice and agency.

Career Outlook

The Global Studies AA-T program opens the door to exciting career opportunities in diplomacy, international business and finance, education, non-profits and advocacy, government, media, and beyond. Along the way, students gain powerful tools to think critically, engage globally, and make a meaningful impact in today’s interconnected world.

GBST 101 Introduction to Global Studies:

Introduction to the interdisciplinary field of Global Studies. Includes the history of globalization and the various developments related to the processes of globalization - such as economic, political, historical, anthropological, philosophical, geographical, artistic, social, cultural and ecological factors.

GBST 102 Global Issues:

Introduction to the origins, current status, and future trends of major transnational issues confronting the global community. Topics may include, but are not limited to, population trends, economic development and inequality, basic human needs (for food, water, health care, personal safety), human rights, international conflict and security concerns, and environmental problems. Also focuses on global governance, including the study of collective global responsibilities and responses.

GBST 650 Study Abroad Life and Culture:

Explores the cultural elements, including literature, art, art history, dance, drama, film, music, theater, philosophical, scientific, and technological movements of a foreign country as part of the Study Abroad Program. Students gain skills in cross-cultural competency as well as specific knowledge and understanding about the host country as they attend lectures, interact with local experts, participate in field trips and take part in cultural events. Students must be enrolled in the Semester Abroad Program.

Check out the classes offered in current and upcoming semesters:

Class Schedule
Program Type Total Units
Global Studies for Transfer AA-T 60 Units

Upon completion of the program students will be able to:

  • Identify major recurring and emerging global issues
  • Analyze the interconnections between and among global issues
Office Information

Location: Building 1
Email: socialsci-creativearts@smccd.edu
Phone: (650) 738-4122

Department Faculty

Daisy Gutierrez
Daisy Gutierrez (Assistant Professor)
Social Science|Creative Arts-Geography
gutierrezd@smccd.edu More details »

Acting Dean & Division Assistant

Bianca Rowden-Quince
Bianca Rowden-Quince (Acting Dean of Social Sciences/Creative Arts)
Social Science|Creative Arts-Division Office
rowdenquinceb@smccd.edu More details »
Lynette Caballero
Lynette Caballero (Division Assistant)
Social Science|Creative Arts-Division Office
caballerol@smccd.edu More details »