Overview

The Global Studies programme at University of California, Santa Barbara offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the historical and multidimensional processes of globalization. Students bridge social science and humanistic perspectives to analyse the cultural, economic, and environmental consequences of global flows.

This academic framework is designed for those seeking to engage with contemporary transnational social problems through diverse theoretical methodologies. The curriculum focuses on providing hands-on training that prepares graduates for influential roles in shaping international policy and civil society.

Why Global Studies at University of California, Santa Barbara?

Students work closely with 17 core faculty members and over 20 affiliated experts from across the campus, ensuring access to a vast range of scholarship. The department provides competitive funding packages, including support from the Orfalea Foundation for international field research and internships.

The university offers a unique practicum series and teaching assistantships that provide tuition remission and valuable professional experience. The programme's strong emphasis on regional and disciplinary expertise allows students to tailor their research under the guidance of world-class mentors.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14430 per year
National fee: USD 14430 per year
Local fee: USD 14430 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum combines multi-method research training with specialised areas of study. Modules may include:

Global Culture, Ideology, and Religion
Global Political Economy, Development, and Environment
Global Governance, Civil Society, and Human Rights
Empirical Research Methods
Social Science Frameworks
Humanities Frameworks
International Field Research

Careers with Global Studies

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional paths within civil society, government, and the private sector. The programme provides a strong foundation for careers in media, socially responsible business, and environmental protection organisations.

Alumni frequently secure roles in local and international NGOs, policy research, and economic development. The extensive alumni network and dedicated career resources facilitate transitions into fields such as law, education, and academic research.

Programme Structure

Courses

History and Theory of Globalization

Contemporary Issues

Direct Reading and Research

Independent Study

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies International Relations Political Science View 232 other Masters in International Relations in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

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

Statement of Purpose

Personal Achievements/Contributions Statement

Curriculum Vitae or Resume

Official transcripts

GRE scores

TOEFL or IELTS exam scores

3 Letters of Recommendation

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

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Out-of-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 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.

Financing

Interested in financing your studies? Find a student loan that works for you.

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Free visa & career support through our Path2Success program

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master'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.

On this page

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

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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