Content
The School of Global Integrative Studies (SGIS) offers dynamic programs in anthropology, geography, and global studies—fields that help you make sense of an interconnected world. Our courses also support students preparing for careers in education, health, forensic science, business, nonprofits (NGOs), and government service at the state and federal levels.
Explore our new courses below, along with others that may spark your interest, fit your goals, and help you satisfy college and ACE requirements. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your next steps, there’s something here for you.
Want help mapping it all out? Connect with SGIS advisor Kristin Plath to learn more about our majors and recommended course pathways.
GLST 201
Introduction to Global Studies
Julia Reilly
Global challenges — from trade and migration to security, development, and human rights — increasingly shape everyday life in the United States and beyond. This course introduces students to the big ideas and real-world dynamics of globalization, helping them understand how local communities and global systems are interconnected across politics, economics, culture, and the environment.
What to expect
Students complete three exams (including a map exam), short weekly analytical paragraphs, current event reports using international news sources, a collaborative group presentation, and a final critical essay. Assignments emphasize clear writing, informed argumentation, geographic literacy, and the ability to connect course concepts to real-world global developments.
Professional skills
Global & Cultural Literacy, Analytical Writing, Media & Information Evaluation, Collaborative Presentation, Evidence-Based Argumentation
Register on MyRED
GLST 203
Machine Learning and Meaning: AI for Social Inquiry in a Globalized World
Emira Ibrahimpasic
Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we live, work, govern, and know the world — but who does it serve, and at what cost? This course demystifies AI through hands-on experimentation with real tools while critically examining how algorithms shape power, inequality, culture, and global systems.
What to expect
Students will build and test a simple no-code AI model, conduct an “everyday AI” ethnography, and collaborate on two group projects analyzing or designing an AI system. Across presentations and short written deliverables, they will apply social science theory to real-world technologies while critically evaluating bias, power, and global impact. By the end of the course, students will be able to both use AI tools and analyze them with confidence and ethical awareness.
Professional skills
Critical Analysis, Digital Literacy, Collaborative Research, Ethical Reasoning, Public Communication
GLST 350
Refugees, (Im)migrants, and Displaced Persons in a Globalized World
Julia Reilly
Migration is one of the defining realities of the 21st century — shaping economies, communities, national policies, and local neighborhoods, including here in Nebraska. This course examines why people move, how refugee and asylum systems function, and how migration affects both newcomers and host communities, combining global analysis with hands-on engagement in Lincoln.
What to expect
Students participate in a structured mentorship project with a local migration professional, complete an inquiry-based research project, write analytical reflections, and collaborate on a public-facing dialogue event. Assignments emphasize careful research, ethical engagement, clear writing, and connecting global migration systems to real community experiences.
Professional skills
Policy & Legal Literacy, Community-Engaged Research, Ethical Interviewing & Communication, Analytical Writing, Cross-Cultural Collaboration
CAS Diversity in the US
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GLST 4/815
Grant Writing and Fundraising for Social Good
Tim Turnquist
Effective social impact work depends on strong resource development. This course introduces the history, ethics, and practice of philanthropy while training students in grant writing, donor engagement, and strategic fundraising for nonprofit and social impact organizations in the U.S. and globally.
What to expect
Students will write a full grant proposal for a real nonprofit organization, develop a comprehensive fundraising strategy and appeal materials for a local organization, complete applied in-class exercises, and reflect on their own philanthropic values. Assignments emphasize practical skill-building, strategic planning, ethical fundraising practice, and professional-quality written communication.
Professional skills
Grant writing, fundraising strategy, donor research, nonprofit financial planning, professional proposal development
