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

Seeing double: VCU anthropologist Bernard K. Means’ latest project includes 3D-printing his own skull. (Jonathan Haff, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

May 22, 2026

Hit by a cyclist, VCU professor has a 3D brainstorm

Bernard K. Means, director of the Virtual Curation Lab, turned his CT scan into a skull model that could offer lots of creative opportunities.

Tomika Ferguson, associate dean of student affairs and community engagement in the School of Education; Cristina Stanciu, director of the Humanities Research Center; Ashley Shoell-Gonzalez, program service coordinator for the Ryan White Program; John Jones, assistant professor in the School of Life Sciences and Sustainability; VCU President Michael Rao; Aarushi Khanna, a student in the School of Nursing; and Christopher Brooks, professor in the School of World Studies, at this week’s PACME ceremony. (Skip Rowland)

April 14, 2026

This year's PACME honorees are committed to the success of the VCU community

Tomika Ferguson of the School of Education earned the capstone award of the program, which recognizes contributions among students, faculty and staff that support cross-cultural relations and a welcoming environment.

A film poster for a documentary titled

April 13, 2026

Celebrating the famous French philosopher in ‘Badiou’

VCU professor Rohan Kalyan brought a creative, “open-ended imagery” approach to his film about Alain Badiou.

World Studies Spotlight