UAlbany Bolsters "Global Thinking" with Launch of Globalization Studies Major
Trade expert and author Lori Wallach delivers keynote address at inaugural Globalization Studies conference

Contact(s):  Catherine Herman (518) 956-8150

ALBANY, N.Y. (September 25, 2008) -- The University at Albany today launched its undergraduate major in Globalization Studies, designed to expand students' world view and prepare them for economic, social, political, cultural and environmental interactions around the globe. UAlbany marked the official launch by hosting its inaugural Globalization Studies conference, highlighted by a keynote address by trade expert and author Lori Wallach.

"This new major will broaden students' world view and prepare them for the global working environment," said Interim President George M. Philip.

"The Globalization Studies major will foster in our students an awareness and understanding of the global forces at play and prepare them to be 21st century leaders," said Edelgard Wulfert, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

"I am thrilled to see this exciting learning opportunity finally become a reality, as it will expand the world view of our students and enhance their preparation for a wide range of career paths," said Fernando Leiva, director of Globalization Studies.

The Globalization Studies major is designed to raise students' awareness of the global forces and processes that shape lives and engage students in new ways of acquiring and applying knowledge. Areas of study and research within the major include global environment and ecology, cultures and identities, business, finance, and social reproduction. Through the program's courses and its requirement for study abroad or another off-campus learning experience, UAlbany puts the world within reach for students, who are encouraged to "think globally."

The major marks the commitment of more than 50 faculty members representing over 15 departments and four colleges. It builds on the University's long-standing tradition of excellence in programs focused on different regions of the world, as well as many ongoing efforts to strengthen the global dimensions and modern vision of a UAlbany education.

UAlbany's inaugural, one-day Globalization Studies conference was designed to spark an ongoing conversation on how the University at Albany understands the new forms of interconnectedness produced by globalizing processes and meets the challenges posed by them.

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