DEPARTMENT OF GLOBAL INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES

Mural painted by Alloyius Mcilwaine outside of the GIS office in Garey Hall.

The Department of Global Interdisciplinary Studies (GIS) provides students with skills, knowledge and values that foster critical thinking, problem solving and preparation for responsible global citizenship.

Our students gain an understanding of global and digital literacy, cultural diversity and intercultural competences, interdisciplinary research, and a passion for social justice, nurtured in experiential learning.

UNDERGRADUATE MAJORS AND MINORS

The department offers three majors:

  1. Global Interdisciplinary Studies, choosing one of 10 specializations
    1. Africana Studies
    2. Arab and Islamic Studies
    3. Asian Studies
    4. Chinese Studies
    5. Cultural Studies
    6. Irish Studies
    7. Japanese Studies
    8. Latin American Studies
    9. Russian Area Studies
    10. Individually Designed Specialization  
  2. Gender and Women's Studies
  3. Peace and Justice Studies

We also offer four Critical Language and Cultural Studies minors in Arabic, Chinese, Japanese and Russian.

The Department of Global Interdisciplinary Studies requires students who major in Global Interdisciplinary Studies with an area specialization to study abroad (not required for Gender and Women's Studies or Peace and Justice).

The department offers the GIS Travel Assistance Fund (TAF) to those who need help with covering study abroad expenses. Eligible expenses include transportation, lodging, and meals. More information under "Current Student Resources."

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Chiji Akoma, PhD
Professor
Chair, Department of Global Interdisciplinary Studies
chiji.akoma@villanova.edu
(610) 519-6967

Andra Cain
Senior Administrative Assistant
andra.cain@villanova.edu

(610)-519-6302

WHO WE ARE