Program Details
Carleton’s Bachelor of Global and International Studies (BGInS) is the first program in Canada to emphasize approaches that are both global (issues concerning the world) and international (between two or more countries). As a student in Ottawa, you’ll have direct access to embassies, government departments and NGOs, providing an in-depth understanding of global and international issues. Take courses in global and international history, literatures, ethics, economics, culture, law, climate change and theory. You’ll also choose one of 15 specializations to focus on your interests.
Language Requirement
The BGInS program features a second-language requirement that can be taken, for example in Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and/or American Sign Language. Students may also take other languages at other institutions of higher education with prior approval.
International Experience Requirement
The BGInS program features an international experience requirement as an integral part of the program. The options for fulfilling this requirement include: studying abroad under one of Carleton’s international exchange agreements, undertaking an international internship, completing a Carleton University course abroad, or taking our international group project course at Carleton.
Work Experience
A Co-op option is available. Co-op is the opportunity to get a head start on a career. Co-op work terms allow for the development of key employability skills, exploration of career options and graduation with tangible, workplace experience.
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Areas of Study
Career Outcomes
Explore your passions, refine new skills and discover the career that’s right for you.
The critical skills gained from BGInS will prepare you for a wide variety of careers.
Sample Careers
- Administration
- Advocacy
- Business
- Civil Service
- Conservation
- Consulting
- Diplomacy
- Education
- Finance
- Foreign Service
- Government
- International Development
- International Relations
- Journalism
- Law
- Lobbying
- Media
- Museums and Historical Sites
- Non-Governmental Organizations
- Non-Profit Sector
- Policy Analysis
- Politics
- Polling
- Public Service
- Research
- Teaching
- Tourism
Sample Courses
GINS 1010 - International Law and Politics
Introduction to the evolution of the international system, including the rise of the state, sovereignty, and the challenge of international cooperation. The role of international law in addressing global issues such as human rights, security and trade.
GINS 3010 - Global and International Theory
Advanced analysis of global and international theories from a variety of perspectives, including realism, liberalism, postmodernism, constructivism, post-structuralism, literary and critical approaches.
Visit the Undergraduate Calendar to view a comprehensive list of course offerings for this program and discover the exciting things Carleton students are learning in the classroom!
Global and International Studies allowed me to explore various aspects of global issues while honing my communication skills. I worked on a project with an international NGO based out of Italy that made direct impact to the local communities. My international experience allowed me to engage with various stakeholders from Nairobi, Nigeria, Germany, Italy and many other surrounding regions focusing on advocacy. I worked on communication strategies to raise awareness about providing education for immigrants, refugees and those living in war-torn countries — an opportunity that had opened many doors for me. It was incredibly rewarding to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in my program to real-world issues and make a tangible impact. Being exposed to diverse perspectives and global issues enhanced my cultural competence and adaptability, preparing me for a wide range of future career opportunities in fields such as international relations, journalism or public relations and stakeholder engagement.
