Studies show that employers want employees with skills in critical thinking and communication — hallmarks of a Global Studies curriculum — above technical qualifications. Current employers want to hire people empowered to negotiate a globalizing workplace, remarking, “we need people who are good managers, who are cross-culturally competent” (Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017).
An interdisciplinary degree shows potential employers that you can analyze and synthesize different kinds of knowledge to arrive at creative solutions. Experiences like Study Abroad and International Internships demonstrate to employers your ability to adapt to challenging new situations and to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
You can customize your GS major by choosing which foreign languages to study or pursing additional training in data analysis, media literacy, or additional areas with appeal to employers in the global marketplace.
A World of Possibilities
Global Studies majors graduate with a broad knowledge base of current global issues and specific skills applicable to a variety of careers. These skills include:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Cross-cultural knowledge and understanding
- Critical thinking and creative problem-solving
- Ability to formulate clear and persuasive messages
- Listening, clarifying, questioning and responding skills
- Ability to work well independently and collaboratively
- Deep understanding of the institutions and processes that shape the world
Here at Lehigh, the Global Studies program takes an active role in preparing students for post-graduation opportunities. For example, GS students receive training on job searching, resume-writing, networking, interviewing, and negotiating job offers. Throughout their time at Lehigh, GS students have the opportunity to explore possibilities in career paths they might not otherwise know about or have considered. In particular, the GS program works to connect GS alumni to current students and hosts a GS career panel with recent alumni each spring semester.
Our graduates have pursued a broad range of professions, including careers in international organizations, global marketing, public health, sustainable development, transnational project management, foreign policy, education, global media, the arts, technology, and law. Many graduates have also gone on to graduate study in a variety of fields, such as anthropology, political science, environmental science, and social work.
Recent Alumni from Lehigh's Global Studies program work as:
- Associate News Producers
- Attorneys
- Curriculum Developers
- Financial Crimes Consultants
- Global Compliance Analysts
- Librarians
- National Sales Coordinators
- Project Managers
- Recruitment Analysts
- Research Analysts & Research Leads
- Teachers
Employers of Recent Alumni from Lehigh's Global Studies program include:
- CNN
- Deloitte
- Goldman Sachs
- Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities
- Montgomery County Planning Commission
- NBC
- New Jersey Courts
- Senator Bob Casey
- Smithsonian American Art Museum
- Tow Center for Digital Journalism
- UC San Diego's Jacobi Medical Center