Institute for Global Studies

The Institute for Global Studies (IGS) creates an environment for students and scholars at the University of Minnesota to investigate the sets of interrelated processes forming today's increasingly interdependent world. IGS provides a vibrant curriculum for students, brings together scholars from diverse disciplines, and works with the community to create partnerships examining global issues.

IGS also works with departments across the College of Liberal Arts to support innovative curricular development by faculty designed to broaden opportunities for global education.

The Institute also supports research and scholarship, putting great minds to work on issues of global significance.

IGS is the home of a range of interdisciplinary centers that support research and programmatic development. These include National Resource Centers in international studies, Western European Studies, and the study of the Asias. Working groups, intellectual collectives, and research collaboratives allow faculty to explore cutting edge scholarship and to share research in progress. Speakers series and colloquia bring leading scholars to campus to interact with Minnesota faculty and students.

IGS outreach activities develop community partnerships and make connections across cultural, geographic, and disciplinary boundaries.

Teacher summer institutes connect k-16 instructors with University faculty and support their development of new curriculum to challenge and engage students. Professional development opportunities encourage educators to explore current issues through conferences, seminars, and short courses. IGS also provides resources to educators through a curricular library and listserv.