Why World Studies?

In the School of World Studies we explore what it means to be human.

Using anthropology, foreign languages, international studies and religious studies, we investigate the depth and breadth of the human experience so we can address the challenges we face as global citizens. Our programs begin with basic questions about humanity: Who are we? Where did we come from? What do we believe? How do we communicate and negotiate meaning? What is our responsibility as world citizens? 

Learn more about the value of a degree in a World Studies program.

News

In his latest book, Christopher A. Brooks, Ph.D., explores the concurrent effects of HIV and coronavirus on people in Kenya. (Contributed images)

Sept. 30, 2024

Author Christopher Brooks looks at two pandemics – HIV and COVID – in latest book

Focusing on Kenya, the VCU anthropology professor expands his ongoing exploration.

VCU alum Anna Carter digitally scans the last Genuine Smithfield Ham during a trip to the Isle of Wight County Museum. (Photo provided by Bernard Means)

Sept. 17, 2024

Nothing ham-handed about this project: VCU helps digitally preserve the last Genuine Smithfield Ham

Bernard Means of the Virtual Curation Laboratory and his summer field school students hit the road to scan a serious – and slippery – hunk of Virginia history.

Oswaldo Moreno, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychology, and Anita Nadal, a teaching assistant professor of Spanish, are the co-founders of El Centro, a new resource for Latine students, faculty and staff. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Sept. 16, 2024

VCU’s new El Centro will support Latine students, faculty and staff in academic success and community engagement

The center, part of the Division of Inclusive Excellence, officially launches in September and is developing a range of programs.

World Studies Spotlight