Global Studies Graduate Certificate Programs

Updated: Mar 30, 2024

Global Studies involves the examination of political, economic, and legal elements of countries around the planet and how they interact. As the world shifts to regional and global trade, with more focus than ever on interconnectedness, global studies is an emerging social discipline.

Global Studies Graduate Certificates are for students who wish to explore this area of sociology, gaining global knowledge for trade, politics, ecology/conservation, law enforcement, and cultural studies.

What Are the Online Global Studies Graduate Certificate Requirements?

Schools in the U.S. that provide online global studies graduate certificates expect students to meet all admissions requirements. While specific requirements vary by school, common entrance requirements include:

A bachelor's degree
A master's degree in a relevant subject such as political science, sociology, international law, or anthropology
Minimum GPA can vary, usually 2.5 or above
Official transcripts of all academic qualifications
For students from non-English speaking countries, there is a requirement to prove English proficiency. Relevant certifications include TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE. Some colleges accept ELS112. DuoLingo may also be acceptable to some admissions
Letters of recommendation: two is standard, though three are sometimes required. Students without recent academic experience will be asked to submit a resume and employer references
The application fee
A personal statement or essay explaining your background, interests, and highlighting what you expect to get out of the program

What Type of Classes Are Included in the Online Global Studies Graduate Certificate Curriculum?

Online global studies graduate certificate programs can often be completed in a year or so. The curriculum includes courses in varied topics, often including:

Globalization: Global Politics & Economics
Global Literacy, Culture, and Community
Global Peace and Conflict
Regional Studies
Human Intercultural Relations: Global Education
Foreign Policy
Global Health Issues
Global Negotiation
International Economics, Trade, & Finance
International Law
International Organizations
International Security
Historical Trends in International Affairs
Global Political Agencies and NGOs
Emerging Issues between Global North-South Political Issues
Diplomacy and International Organizations
Capstone Project

What Type of Careers Can I Pursue with an Online Global Studies Graduate Certificate?

With an online global studies grad certificate, you can enter several wide-ranging career pathways. Some options include:

Business Consultant: Help businesses involved with international trade, advising on red tape and import/export issues, and even on marketing requirements.
Human Rights Advocate: If you have a background in advocacy or some law, you could work for charities or government organizations advising on human rights issues.
Nonprofit Director: Many charities work across borders, especially when working in the fields of health, aid & relief, conflict, and issues affecting refugees.
Political Analyst: Working either for government departments, diplomatic service, charities, or media, political analysts examine developing situations and offer advice.
Media Consultant: You could work as a journalist, media researcher, consultant, or for other on-the-ground agencies bringing international news to the world.
Sustainability Consultant: Different countries have different requirements for sustainability. You will help organizations adhere to each nation's regulations.
International Event Planner: Entertainment, corporate events, and anything that requires moving equipment and people between countries require someone with complex skills in cross-border organization.