Overview

The Global Studies programme at University of California, Santa Barbara provides a distinctive interdisciplinary framework for understanding the complex transnational processes that shape our modern world. As one of the first of its kind in the United States, the curriculum focuses on both historical and contemporary globalising trends. Students develop a sophisticated worldview by examining the intersections of culture, politics, and economics across national boundaries.

Why Global Studies at University of California, Santa Barbara?

The department features a diverse faculty with expertise across multiple world regions, committed to using global thinking to address 21st-century challenges. Students benefit from a flexible curriculum that allows for specialisation in specific geographic areas, including Africa, the Middle East, East Asia, and Latin America. The programme emphasises the importance of linguistic proficiency, requiring multiple years of foreign language study to ensure graduates can navigate diverse cultural landscapes effectively.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14934 per year
National fee: USD 14934 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around introductory gateway courses and upper-division core requirements. Modules may include:

Global History, Culture, and Ideology
Global Socioeconomics and Politics
Global Culture and Ethics
Global Ideologies and World Order
Global Economy and Development
Global Racial Justice
Special Topics Seminars

Careers with Global Studies

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of professional paths in the international arena and local communities. The degree equips students with the ability to compare cultural perspectives and understand the historical forces shaping society. Alumni frequently secure roles within global non-profits, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and cultural exchange programmes. The broad liberal arts foundation also supports careers in international business, diplomacy, and public policy.

Many students use this degree as a stepping stone for further academic pursuits. It provides excellent preparation for graduate study in international affairs, peace and world order studies, and the legal field. Additionally, graduates find opportunities in sectors such as:

Education and K-12 Teaching
Healthcare and Public Health
Governmental Agencies
The Tech Industry
International Relations

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Global History, Culture and Ideology

Global Religion

Global Diasporas and Cultural Change

Global Culture and Ethics

International Political Economy

Global Conflict

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies History View 808 other Bachelors in Area & Cultural Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

3.0 GPA For California residents

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

The University of California sets slightly different criteria for applicants who are not California residents. If you are an out-of-state applicant, you must meet the same admission requirements as a California resident student.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Out-of-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Global Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Barbara

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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