![Pink skies above campus buildings stretch out to the world beyond KU.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/global.ku.edu/sites/global/files/styles/21_9_placeholder_/public/images/2021/Resize%20AW_Spec%2BAerial%2BG-1.jpg?h=9d53a4b4&itok=nzd-Xp54)
Global & International Studies (GIST)
Our students learn to think critically about pressing global issues. They gain knowledge and skills to succeed in various world-related careers.
Why GIST?
![Campanile tower with clouds and orange sky](/sites/global/files/images/2021/2004226_AW_Spec%2BCampanile%2BSunset%2BTimelapse-521.jpeg)
Interdisciplinary
The GIST program bridges many disciplines around the university. By melding these perspectives, GIST students develop a unique & versatile understanding of global & international issues.
![Four smiling students sit in grass on campus](/sites/global/files/images/2021/1602129_MK_2188.jpeg)
Knowledge
Through a selection of extensive coursework, GIST students gain both a depth & breadth of knowledge in global issues. Students can master Culture, History, Politics, & Economics.
![Metal jayhawk statue with pink tree buds in background](/sites/global/files/images/2021/1803120_MK_D_SpringColor.0063.jpeg)
Skills
Carefully designed core GIST courses provide rigorous training in research, analysis, & writing skills, forming a toolkit of qualifications for multiple post-graduation pathways as seen below.
![Clouds and blue sky above campus skyline](/sites/global/files/images/2021/2004210_AL_Campus%2BAerials%2BA-9.jpeg)
Opportunities
KU offers GIST students a range of opportunities: study abroad, scholarships, internships & professional networking. Our degrees lead to high quality opportunities after graduation.
![Bailey Hall, the limestone building that houses the GIST programs](/sites/global/files/images/2022/1702406_J_MK_0857.jpeg)
Explore Our Programs
GIST offers a number of degrees to fit various academic and professional needs. They include a minor, major, traditional MA, and a one-year interagency studies MA.
Learn about GIST ProgramsRecent GIST Graduates went on to:
![A circle made of 28 outstretched hands](/sites/global/files/images/2022/hands%20circle.jpg)
NGO & Non-Profit
including:
International Relations Council
People to People International
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Teach for America
JET Program
Unbound
City Year
International Relations Council
People to People International
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Teach for America
JET Program
Unbound
City Year
![Numerous international flags flying outside of building](/sites/global/files/images/2022/Flags.jpg)
Public Sector
including:
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Central Intelligence Agency
House of Representatives
U. S. Department of State
Peace Corps, Americorps
Fulbright Program
Air Force, Army
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Central Intelligence Agency
House of Representatives
U. S. Department of State
Peace Corps, Americorps
Fulbright Program
Air Force, Army
![University library interior](/sites/global/files/images/2022/Library%281%29.jpg)
Graduate School
including:
University of California-Berkeley
London School of Economics
George Mason University
Georgetown University
University of Chicago
Columbia University
Johns Hopkins SAIS
University of California-Berkeley
London School of Economics
George Mason University
Georgetown University
University of Chicago
Columbia University
Johns Hopkins SAIS
![Law books](/sites/global/files/images/2022/law%20books%20free.jpg)
Law School
including:
Pennsylvania State University
University of Loyola Chicago
University of Wisconsin
University of Nebraska
University of Brooklyn
University of Indiana
Harvard
Pennsylvania State University
University of Loyola Chicago
University of Wisconsin
University of Nebraska
University of Brooklyn
University of Indiana
Harvard
GIST Enrollment
175
majors
21
masters
45
minors