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What Is Global Studies?

Global studies is an emerging and interdisciplinary field of study that examines the processes and effects of globalization from multiple perspectives. It encompasses various disciplines such as political science, economics, sociology, anthropology, history, geography, environmental studies, cultural studies, and more. It also incorporates cross-cutting themes such as human rights, democracy, development, security, health, culture, identity, and diversity.

At Buffalo State, Global Studies is a campus-wide institute that involves all schools, the School of Arts and Sciences, and the School of Education and Applied Professions, as well as centers and programs that examine themes, processes and effects of globalization from social, cultural, economic, political, and environmental aspects. 

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Buffalo State Gives 2025

The GSI provides Buffalo State students with an immersive and transformative education to foster critical thinking, intercultural competency, and social responsibility. Today’s students become tomorrow’s problem-solvers, charged with tackling such complex global issues in pursuit of a better world.
 
Your gift to the GSI helps us prepare students to become internationally minded citizens in these ways: 

  • Funding guest speakers who bring their unique theoretical and empirical expertise on global issues to campus;
  • And providing resources to build connections with existing academic programs dealing with global issues at Buffalo State. 

Please support the GSI during Buffalo State Gives 2025. Make your gift today!

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Featured Events

Vietnamerica screening poster

Simulcast Film Screening and Discussion: November 18

Vietnamerica
Science and Mathematics Complex 173
5:00 p.m. 

Please join us for a documentary film screening and discussion, Vietnamerica (GETSEA Simulcast Film Screenings), that examines the Vietnamese diaspora, their struggle, and how a refugee's story is a prism to see the larger group. This event is free and open to the public with parking available at surrounding lots (I-37). 

Event Flyer (PDF)

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View Past Events

Past Event Schedule

GSI Mission and Vision

Our Mission

The Global Studies Institute (GSI) is established to provide a hub for research, education, outreach and service activities on global issues and world regions. We aim to offer the synergy for the campus community and beyond in addressing and advancing global understanding, engagement, and cooperation in a complex and changing world. We seek to provide students with an immersive, transformative and a multidisciplinary education that fosters critical thinking, cultural competence, and social responsibility as well as to prepare students to become leaders with careers in fields related to global studies. 

Our Vision

The Global Studies Institute aims to create a world-class center and hub for research, education, outreach and service activities on global issues by collaborating with the campus community and beyond in providing a comprehensive understanding of global issues and cultures, preparing future global citizens, and promoting global peace and prosperity. 

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