As the global community becomes increasingly interdependent, we are faced with new political, cultural, economic, social, and environmental realities, along with many new challenges. In response to these challenges, graduates must enhance their knowledge and skills across national and disciplinary boundaries.
With a Bachelor of Arts in Global Development and Sustainability from St. John’s University, you learn to develop systemic solutions that promote global solidarity and to effectively strategize in response to rapid global change. The program provides you with a broad framework for understanding global and sustainable development, and deepens your knowledge of our global community. You have the option to select either the Science or Social Science program track to fit your individual interests and career goals.
Our thoroughly interdisciplinary curriculum incorporates courses from across the liberal arts. Grounded in our University Mission, the program also incorporates Community Engaged Learning, as well as study abroad and global internship opportunities to enhance your professional and international experience.
- Degree Type
- BA
- Area of Interest
- Social Sciences
- Associated Colleges or Schools
- Program Location
- Queens Campus
- Required Credit Hours
- 120
Additional Information
For more information about admission to this and other acclaimed undergraduate programs at St. John’s University, please visit Undergraduate Admission online.
The B.A. in Global Development and Sustainability curriculum includes an array of interdisciplinary courses from across the liberal arts, an internship experience, and a capstone seminar. You also complete four elective courses from the program track you choose.
Major Requirements
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| GDS 1000/ANT 1200 | Theories in Global and Sustainable Development | 3 |
| GDS 2000/ANT 2200 | Health, Food, and the Environment | 3 |
| ANT/RCT 1155 | Language and Intercultural Communication | 3 |
| ECO 3346* | Economic Growth and Development | 3 |
| GOV 3850 | Politics of Developing Countries | 3 |
| Language* | One language course at the 3000 level | 3 |
| GDS 4980 | Internship | 3 |
| GDS 4990 | Capstone Seminar in Global and Sustainable Development | 3 |
| Program Electives | Choose from among approved electives in either the Social Science or Science track | 12 |
Total: 36 credits
Social Science Track Electives
Choose four courses (12 credits) from among the following:
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ANT 1040 | Culture and Global Change | 3 |
| ANT 1100 | Food and Culture | 3 |
| ANT 2400 | Anthropology of Development | 3 |
| COM 3103 | International Communication and Global Development | 3 |
| ECO 3306 | Comparative Economic Systems | 3 |
| ESP 1020 | Methods of Environmental Analysis | 3 |
| GOV 2520 | Politics of Environment and Development | 3 |
| GOV 2680 | Transnational Politics of Gender | 3 |
| HIS 3160 | History of Human Rights and Social Justice | 3 |
| PSY 2010 | Cross-Cultural Psychology | 3 |
| PSY 2180 | International Psychology | 3 |
| SOC 2020 | Gender and Development | 3 |
| SOC 2030 | Economic Sociology | 3 |
| SOC 2100 | Global Poverty | 3 |
| SOC 2330 | Human Trafficking | 3 |
Science Track Electives
Choose four courses (12 credits) from among the following:
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ANT/ESP 1120 | Human Ecology | 3 |
| ANT 2100 | Anthropology | 3 |
| BIO 1070 | Environmental Biology | 3 |
| CHE 1210 | Introduction to General Chemistry | 3 |
| ESP 2020 | Environmental Analysis | 3 |
| ESP/GOV 2170 | Environmental Politics and Policies | 3 |
| ESP 2410 | Principles and Practices of Sustainable Development | 3 |
| GEO 1001 | World Regional Geography | 3 |
| GEO 2001 | Natural Resources and World Development | 3 |
| GEO 2002 | Environmental Conversation | 3 |
| PHY 1080 | Our Planet | 3 |
| PHY 1090 | Science of Weather | 3 |
| PHY 1120 | Energy and Environment | 3 |
| PHY 1520 | Earth Science | 3 |
As a St. John’s University student, you benefit from our enviable location in dynamic New York City. Through our renowned faculty and Office of Career Services, you have access to employers and other professional and educational resources throughout the New York area.
You also have the opportunity for an international academic or internship experience. The University offers extensive study abroad courses during the academic year as well as the winter and summer semesters.
As a graduate with a degree in Global Development and Sustainability, you can pursue domestic or international careers, as well as careers in more socially-oriented occupations or in economically-focused fields. You may find yourself working for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), in government, or in the private sector.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social and community service managers is projected to grow 13 percent through 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations.
The program's internship requirement integrates practical and theoretical knowledge, allowing you to build a network for your career. You may also opt to pursue an advanced degree in Global Development and Social Justice, Government and Politics, or Public Health, all of which are available at St. John's.
Our vibrant service communities and networks throughout New York, Rome, and Paris help connect you with a meaningful career path.
Student Stories
Prestigious Watson Fellowship Awarded to Global Sustainability Major
Louisiana native Benjamin Broussard came to St. John’s University looking for opportunities both locally and globally. Benjamin, a Global Development and Sustainability major, was recently awarded a 2022 Jeannette K. Watson Fellowship.
Highlight
Louisiana native Benjamin Broussard came to St. John’s University looking for opportunities both locally and globally. Benjamin, a Global Development and Sustainability major, was recently awarded a 2022 Jeannette K. Watson Fellowship.
