The Global & International Studies Program, established in 1999, is one of the first interdisciplinary undergraduate majors in international studies in the country to focus on globalization. The major is popular among undergraduates and attracts students from all walks of life.  

A new Master of Arts program, launched in fall 2006, offers a two-year degree which is intended to help students develop an understanding of the economic, political, social, and cultural forces that are shaping global organizations. Internationally-recognized faculty teach and mentor graduate students in the growing program, which has over 30 graduate students.  An interdisciplinary Ph.D. emphasis in Global Studies is also available. 

The Orfalea Center for Global & International Studies complements the academic program and provides an intellectual and programmatic focus for global and international and area studies at UC Santa Barbara and supports public programs, intellectual activities, publications and planning projects.