Because the Jesuit dedication to serving others knows no borders, global studies is a natural fit for Rockhurst. Beginning this fall, it’s a better fit. The revised Global Studies program is designed to help more students expand their worldview and their education.

The new program extends its interdisciplinary approach, and requires one semester of intercultural work. Renee Michael, Ph.D., associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, worked with faculty from across campus to create a program with varied educational options and in-depth intercultural experiences.

“It’s important for students to clarify their own values and perspectives,” Michael says. “Intensive experiences with people and cultures from other parts of the world allow them to do that. They can think about how they might be part of a larger world community, and how their actions impact that community.”

Elective courses will cover culture, institutions and markets. For their international or intercultural experience, students can study abroad or participate in a spring break service trip or an intensive local service project with an international group.

Laura Fitzpatrick, Ph.D., associate professor of economics, teaches an Introduction to Global Studies course. She says students can customize their program, while gaining a true sense of their place in the world.

“If we educate students, but haven’t taught them about global issues and how they fit into the world, we really haven’t educated them,” Fitzpatrick says. “I’m excited that students are really interested in and pursuing global studies.”

Chanasai Tiengtrakul, Ph.D., has been named director of the Global Studies program. Tiengtrakul, an assistant professor of anthropology, will join the faculty in August.