Global and Intercultural Studies
(413) 662-5017
www.mcla.edu/gist
Chairperson: Hannah Noel Haynes, PhD
Email: hannah.haynes@mcla.edu
In the Communication and Intercultural Studies (CICS) Program at MCLA, we educate our students to become effective, adaptable critics and creators of a variety of human discourses. CICS offers three Bachelor of Arts programs: Communication, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Global and Intercultural Studies. We also offer a series of minors in Critical Ethnic Studies, Cross-Cultural and Social Justice Studies, Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies, and Spanish for Professionals.
The Global and Intercultural Studies (GIST) Bachelor of Arts program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in intercultural dialogue and effectively navigate the growing complexities of transnational contexts as active global citizens. The GIST program equips students with critical inquiry skills and intercultural competency necessary to address complex, interdependent local and global challenges. By fostering these abilities, we aim to empower students to contribute to the creation of inclusive and sustainable futures, both locally and globally.
Students graduating with a major in Global and Intercultural Studies will be able to:
- Critically examine complex global issues, applying interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches to understanding how world systems influence and are influenced by struggles for sustainability, social justice, and intercultural dialogue.
- Display a nuanced understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives and worldviews, actively addressing personal and cultural biases.
- Formulate equitable solutions to pressing global challenges by centering subjugated and counter-knowledge(s) and critiquing Eurocentric conceptualizations of gender inequalities, racial hierarchies, and culture/ideologies
- Interact across cultures in an open, appropriate, and effective manner.
- Reflect on global issues demonstrating a commitment to positive change and contributing to collective well-being and sustainable development through the application of knowledge and skills to address local and global challenges.
GIST 150 Introduction to Global and Intercultural Studies3 cr
Introduces students to Global and Intercultural Studies. Focuses on global historical, social, economic, political, and cultural processes that affect people, cultures, communities, and nation-states in different parts of the world in often unequal ways. Investigates local and global responses and activism toward collective well-being and sustainable solutions.
GIST 250 Approaches to Global & Intercultural Studies3 cr
Focuses on the study of selected themes in global and intercultural studies. Students will learn to draw on approaches, methods, and insights from different disciplines and interdisciplinary global studies to research, analyze, and interpret the complex multidimensionality of global and intercultural issues. Course topic is identified by subtitle (such as Indigeneity in Latin America).
Repeatable: Maximum of 6 credits
GIST 280 Global Studies Major & Career Pathways1 cr
Designed for Global and Intercultural Studies (GIST) majors seeking to navigate and strategically plan their career paths. Examine key factors to help determine how to best align academic and career goals. Engage in reflective exercises, discussions, and collaborative activities to explore diverse opportunities within the GIST field. Explores emerging opportunities in the field and empowers students to anticipate and address the challenges and opportunities that arise post-graduation.
GIST 320 Theories & Methods in Global & Intercultural Studies3 cr
Focuses on major theories and research methods in global and intercultural studies. Students will have the opportunity to apply selected theories and research methods to the analysis of significant issues in global and intercultural studies. Course topic varies and is identified by subtitle (e.g. Decolonial Theory and Methodology; Women of Color & Transnational Feminism; Theories and Methods in Global Migration and Refugee Studies).
Prerequisite: GIST 280 or junior status
Repeatable: Maximum of 6 credits
GIST 330 Special Topics in Global Issues & Sustainable Solutions3 cr
Examines pressing global issues and discovers innovative sustainable solutions. Delves into topics such as climate change, effects of globalization, public heath, urbanization, poverty and development, global migration, war conflict and resolution, and more. Engages with interdisciplinary perspectives and practical approaches to address these challenges. Students will gain the critical thinking skills and contribute to shaping a more sustainable future.
Prerequisite: Senior status
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits
GIST 340 Special Topics in Ethics & Social Justice3 cr
Focuses on the complexities of global ethics and social justice. Explores diverse perspectives on justice, equality, human rights, and moral responsibility. Analyzes contemporary issues such as discrimination, and environmental justice, freedom of expression, religious freedom, reparations, and global justice. Engage in critical discussions and develop strategies for promoting equity and fairness on a global scale.
Prerequisite: Senior status
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits
GIST 350 Special Topics in Global Knowledge & Intercultural Communication3 cr
Explores cultural nuances, communication theories, and global trends and phenomena. Focuses on the local and broader consequences of individual and collective cultural interventions in addressing matters of knowledge production. Students will acquire essential skills for navigating cross-cultural interactions adeptly in today's interconnected world. Embrace diversity and cultivate mutual understanding to excel in diverse global environments.
Prerequisite: Senior status
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits
GIST 401 Global & Intercultural Studies Senior Seminar3 cr
Participate in a research practicum aimed at addressing and resolving global and intercultural issues within their local or regional contexts. Synthesize and apply methods and theories relevant to global and intercultural studies from this and previous courses to identify sustainable solutions. Through research, writing, and presentation tasks, students will be required to complete projects related to their geographic and topical areas of interest.
Prerequisite: Junior status