When students imagine studying the world, they often picture travel, languages and vibrant cultures. But Texas A&M University’s new Bachelor of Arts in global studies goes further by helping students understand how the world connects, communicates and collaborates across boundaries.
Launched by the Department of Global Languages & Cultures (GLAC) in the College of Arts & Sciences, the program is designed for curious, globally minded Aggies who want to tackle complex international challenges through a humanities-driven lens.
“We wanted a program that reflects the global complexity students will face in every career,” said Dr. James Howell, director of undergraduate studies for GLAC. “The degree blends languages, literature, culture and technology so students can see how local actions ripple across borders.”
Built around three interdisciplinary areas—languages, literature and arts; cultures and migrations; and climate, technology and the environment—the global studies major allows students to design an academic path that matches their interests. Whether they are passionate about diplomacy, business or sustainability, students gain versatile skills that apply anywhere in the world.
Every student in the program studies abroad, with opportunities in places such as France, Japan, Germany, Chile, Kyrgyzstan and Spain, and can pair those experiences with internships or research guided by faculty mentors.
“Our students don’t just study the world; they experience it firsthand,” Howell said. “They see how different societies approach shared challenges, from climate issues to communication across cultures.”
Daniella Stratta, the program’s academic adviser, ensures each student’s experience is uniquely their own.
“No two global studies degrees look alike,” Stratta said. “I help students build personalized plans by choosing minors, study abroad programs and internships that align with who they are and who they want to become.”
Stratta meets with new Aggies during New Student Conferences and recruitment events, guiding them as they explore their academic goals and professional aspirations.
“Global studies is about curiosity,” she added. “Students who are interested in language, culture or the big questions shaping our world find a home here.”
Distinctly Aggie, Globally Minded
This historical foundation, combined with modern coursework in language, culture and global issues, helps Aggies see the world through both timeless and contemporary lenses.
“We want students to see how this degree opens doors,” Howell said. “It is not limited to one career path. It equips graduates to thrive in international business, education, diplomacy or global development.”
Graduates from the program will be well prepared for roles in government, non-profits, education, international organizations and global enterprises. Through study abroad experiences, professional internships, and faculty mentorship, global studies majors also gain the professional polish and cross-cultural fluency that global employers increasingly seek.
As word spreads, excitement for the major is growing among faculty and students alike. GLAC continues to expand study abroad options and student organizations that support cross-cultural learning.
“The global studies major gives Aggies the tools to navigate an increasingly interconnected world,” Stratta said. “It is about building bridges not just between nations, but between ideas, people and possibilities.”
With the launch of this new degree, Texas A&M is empowering the next generation of Aggies to explore the world and change it.