In today’s increasingly interdependent world, it is more important than ever to understand the politics and economics of far-flung countries. This is why more and more people are choosing to pursue careers in global affairs.

The field, which encompasses a variety of subfields such as political science, history and law, examines how the world works and how it changes over time. It focuses on the growing interdependence of states, economies, societies and cultures. It also explores how these connections are shaped by power, conflict and cooperation, as well as the impact of globalization on all of those things.

A degree in this area can lead to a number of different career paths. These include working in nonprofit organizations, foreign service and private companies that operate internationally. People can also find work with government agencies such as the State Department or the World Bank. They can even become journalists, a position that requires extensive knowledge of global affairs.

The major provides students with the skills necessary to tackle some of today’s most pressing issues, such as terrorism, refugee crises and economic inequality. It allows them to tailor their education by choosing a regional or thematic concentration, and they can take advantage of a wide range of academic opportunities, including international internships and study abroad programs. Students must complete a minimum of two courses outside Yale, which may be either a Capstone project in GLBL 4499 or a senior essay in a substantive seminar or a global affairs senior elective (these carry the GLBL credit attribute). They are also required to take a course designated L4 in a modern language, and they can count up to four credits from summer or term-time studies abroad if they obtain DUS approval in advance.