Diversity, Cross-Cultural and Global Perspectives

All Iona University students are required to take three courses in the areas of Language, Human Diversity, and Global Perspectives. One course must be in a world language (contemporary or classical) and one course must be in Human Diversity. The third course can either be a language course in the same language, or a course in Global Perspectives. A second course in language must be the same language as and at a higher level than the first course. Either the Human Diversity or Global Perspectives course must be from a Humanities discipline (ENG/FLA/HST/PHL/RST).

The Human Diversity area will address the complex, rich, and deeply textured manifestations of diversity in our communities and surrounding social contexts. Courses in this area may examine: the history, causes, and consequences of racism of different types; the principles of socio-economic class; religion; disability; ethnicity; and sex and gender, as just a few examples. Courses may also seek to interrogate the structural inequalities that harm people and prevent the full flourishing of human communities and cultures.

Courses satisfying the Language area will introduce students to the grammatical and linguistic structures of a language as well as the cultural contexts in which languages work, grow, and change.

Courses satisfying the Global Perspectives area will seek to understand major topics, issues, and controversies outside the limits of national borders, and engage students in thinking within and beyond their own experiences to those of communities, identities, and cultural groups around the world.

International students may consult with the Center for Advising if they have questions about the Core language requirement. Students with appropriate documentation may fulfill the language requirement usually through the completion of an additional Diversity or Global Perspectives course. Students seeking a language substitution should consult with the Advising Center.