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Environment, Development and Global Economy

What is a Major in Environment, Development, and Global Economy?

The major in Environment, Development, and Global Economy (EDGE) is designed to help students analyze the choices and challenges that arise in the global economic system and equip them with a better understanding of how states and societies can pursue their economic goals in an environmentally and socially sustainable manner. It emphasizes the role of international organizations in the global economy and in development, as well as help students think critically about globalization and its impact on both developed and developing countries, sustainable development, and the fight against global poverty. Its purpose is to relate theory to practice and provide students with a breadth of knowledge and training in the various facets of sustainable international development and the sub-fields of governance and political economy, environment and development, and international public health.

*Available to students starting Summer 2024*

Why Study Environment, Development, and Global Economy at Virginia Tech?

Major in Environment, Development, and Global Economy at Virginia Tech to become a future global leader. This unique major equips you with critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and language proficiency essential for success in our interconnected world. You'll join a diverse community of high-achieving students passionate about making a positive global impact. Virginia Tech's program, one of the most unique in Virginia, offers unparalleled opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration and research excellence.

 
12
Languages to Study

 
24
Average Class Size

 
2
Programs to Study Away in D.C.

Careers and Further Study

What Can You Do with a major in Environment, Development, and Global Economy?

Jobs Held by Our Graduates

  • Policy Analyst
  • Policy Developer
  • Military officers
  • Political organizers
  • Journalists
  • Lawyers
  • Foreign aid administrators
  • Government service
  • Consulting 
  • Law enforcement

Beyond the Classroom

Experiential Learning

Get Involved

Participate in our active student organizations including (Inter)National and Regional Model UN, International Model NATO, International Model Organization of American States (MOAS), National and Regional Model Arab League, and National Model African Union.

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Get Experience 

Internships and cooperative education programs give you an opportunity to receive academic credit for working in a professional setting. Our students complete internships with the U.S. government, international organizations, and national, state, or local administrative agencies. Talk to an advisor who can help you find and secure a meaningful internship opportunity.

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Travel and Learn

Although studying abroad isn't required, it can often be a pivotal experience for you. Living in a different country is the best way to understand the differences and similarities between cultures. It allows you to develop personal expertise in a specific national or regional context while developing your language skills. 

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Mentors

Our faculty members are productive authors, scholars, and award-winning teachers who are always eager to mentor students on research projects in their field of interest. We have experts on Japan, the European Union, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, the United Kingdom, and other nations, as well as specialists in topics like health politics and policies, global economy and development, health security pandemics, and environmental policy. If you'd like some guidance on an undergraduate research project, just ask.

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Bachelor of Arts in International Studies Degree

Environment, Development, and Global Economy Major Requirements

  • Nations and Nationalities
  • The Global Economy and World Politics
  • Global Development
  • Human Security
  • Global Trade
  • Politics of Global and Comparative Migration

Minor and Elective Hours

Our program gives you the opportunity to build knowledge in another area by pursuing a minor, double major, or cognate.


120 hrs
B.A. International Studies

45 hrs
General Education

57 hrs
Major Requirements

18 hrs
Elective


 

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