New minor at USM/L-A focuses on global challenges

In an effort to help students meet the challenges of a dramatically changing global and pluralistic world, the University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston-Auburn College has established a new academic minor in Global Studies.

The Global Studies minor will investigate the rich varieties of trans-border development and migration, nation states and world cultural communities. “Modern situations are the result of historical events, and decisions made today around the world are not made in an historical vacuum,” says Associate Professor Betty Robinson. “Globalization issues are ever more vital as we reshape our local, regional and global networks.”

Core issues that will be examined include the different points of view embodied in concepts such as globalization and internationalization, as well as the challenges of sustainability, diversity and justice. In addition, because the dynamic between local and global interests is a central issue of modern society, the minor will also emphasize the importance of developing a personal rapport with evolving heritages and economies.

The minor will consist of two foundation courses, one in Globalization, and the other a context course such as Human Geography or Anthropology; a theory course such as Leadership in Different Cultures or Topics in Global Theory; two subject or regional studies courses. Examples of these include French North America, Native and Indigenous Studies of the World, and Health, Illness, and Culture. In addition, a methods course, a capstone course, and participation in a related co-curricular activity will be required.

More information on the Global Studies minor is available online at www.usm.maine.edu/lac/programs. Those who wish to speak to an advisor are asked to call 753-6500. Some of the courses for the minor are offered in the fall semester. A complete fall course listing is also online at www.usm.maine.edu/lac/schedules.