Interdisciplinary Global Studies Certificate

Interdisciplinary Global Studies

Program Number: 901401CERT

Your Degree: Certificate

Estimated Time to Complete: 14 Credits | Finish in 1 year

Delivery Method: Some Online/Some In Person

Area of Study: Education and Social Sciences

Estimated Program Cost: $3,208.04

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Program Overview
The Interdisciplinary Global Studies certificate is designed to integrate student learning across disciplines and programs and to foster connections between disciplinary learning, world languages, and study abroad experiences. This summative experience will have students earn a certificate to document their international experience and credentials.
The certificate requires a total of 14 credits in international coursework, to include at least three credits of world language study as well as an education abroad experience (or an approved equivalent experience). Language study is a mandatory component of the certificate but can only total eight credits out of 14. This results in competency in both international studies and world languages.
A wide range of options, including short term study abroad programs, is provided to meet the needs of community college students with family and work responsibilities. Alternatively, students with more flexible schedules can complete certificate requirements through a semester abroad experience. This certificate is designed for all students, including international students and students who may not be able to participate in a study abroad experience. Contact the advisor(s) for more information.
Program Details
Students earning the Global Studies certificate can attend full or part time.
Global Studies classes may be offered at these Madison College campuses:
Madison - Truax
Madison - South
Reedsburg
Portage
Fort Atkinson
Watertown
For more information, contact Felipe Moraga at 608.616.3394 or fmoraga1@madisoncollege.edu.
Program Courses

Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
14 credits minimum to complete the certificate by satisfying all the requirements as defined.
World Language Requirement (3-8 credits)
As part of the certificate, all students are required to take at least 3 credits of a language that is not their native language. The college defines your "native language" as the language of instruction during your high school years.
20-802-211
Spanish 1
This course is for students beginning their study of Spanish. Students will learn to communicate at a basic level. We will work on the skills of speaking, writing, listening and reading. In this course the student will actively participate in conversations in Spanish as well as complete assignments and tasks that will help the student put into practice what they learn during the semester. In the process, students will gain a better understanding of and appreciation for people and cultures other than their own.
4 credits
20-802-212
Spanish 2
This beginner’s Spanish course is for students who have successfully completed Spanish 1 (or the equivalent). Students will learn to communicate with Spanish speakers at a basic level. We will work on the skills of speaking, writing, listening and reading. In this course students will actively participate in conversations in Spanish as well as complete assignments and tasks that will help the student put into practice what they learn during the semester. In the process, students will gain a better understanding of and appreciation for people and cultures other than their own.
4 credits
20-802-213
Spanish 3
This intermediate Spanish course is for students who have successfully completed Spanish 2 (or the equivalent). The focus of the course is communication, while incorporating the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Course activities are aimed at developing proficiency in all areas. You will also learn about the various cultures and traditions of the Spanish-speaking world. By the end of the class, you should be able to participate in extended conversations on many topics.
4 credits
20-802-214
Spanish 4
This intermediate Spanish course is for students who have successfully completed Spanish 3 (or the equivalent). The focus of the course is communication, while incorporating the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Course activities are aimed at developing proficiency in all areas. You will also learn about the various cultures and traditions of the Spanish-speaking world. By the end of the class, you should be able to participate in extended conversations on many topics.
4 credits
20-802-215
Spanish 5
This course is for students who have successfully completed 4 semesters of college Spanish OR received a minimum score of 475 on the Spanish Language Placement Test. Spanish 5 focuses on developing advanced grammatical proficiency in both speaking and writing. Students will continue broadening vocabulary, enhancing reading skills, expanding cultural knowledge and understanding, and improving both oral and written communication skills through cultural, historical, social, and literary readings.
3 credits
20-802-218
Spanish 6
3 credits
20-802-221
French 1
This course is for students beginning the study of French or those who need to review the basics before going on to French 2. Students will learn to participate in uncomplicated conversations on everyday topics and gain a better understanding of and appreciation for people and cultures other than their own.
4 credits
20-802-222
French 2
This course is for students who have completed 1 year of high school French OR 1 semester of college French. Students will learn to understand more complicated conversations and readings and respond with longer, more complex sentences and even paragraphs. Emphasis will be placed on gaining a better understanding of and appreciation for other cultures.
4 credits
20-802-223
French 3
This course is for students who have completed 2 years of high school French OR 2 semesters of college French. Students will learn to speak and write at an intermediate level, with an ability to discuss topics that require higher level thinking and more complex structures. Emphasis will be placed on gaining a better understanding of and appreciation for other cultures.
4 credits
20-802-224
French 4
This course is for students who have completed 3 years of high school French OR 3 semesters of college French. Students will expand their ability to speak and write at an intermediate level, increasing both the quality and quantity of language produced. Emphasis will be placed on gaining a deeper understanding of and appreciation for other cultures.
4 credits
20-802-226
French 5
3 credits
20-802-230
Intro to Mandarin Chinese 1
Introduction to the fundamental phonetic system and grammar of standard spoken Chinese and written language including 400 Chinese characters. Focuses on the topics of daily life and promotes communicative skills in the context of Mandarin Chinese through interactive and cultural learning activities. Students learn modern standardized simplified Chinese characters rather than the more complex traditional characters.
3 credits
20-802-231
Intro to Mandarin Chinese 2
This course builds on the introduction to the fundamental phonetic system and grammar of standard spoken Chinese and written language and Chinese characters provided in Introduction to Mandarin Chinese I. This course will teach modern standardized simplified Chinese characters rather than the more complex traditional characters. The course will meet for four hours each week for three credits.
3 credits
20-802-232
Mandarin Chinese 3
This course focuses on developing the communication skills in Mandarin Chinese through more complex topics associated with daily life experiences, culture and society. Students actively participate in the interactive and cultural learning activities. They can narrate, describe, and predict events within the contexts using extended discourse. More emphasis is given on expanding vocabulary and understanding Chinese culture.
3 credits
Internationalized Courses Requirement (6-11 credits)
In combination with the language and study abroad experience, complete additional courses to bring the certificate to a total of 14 credits.
Choose from courses as listed in the following disciplines: English Literature and Journalism History Music Natural Science Social and Behavioral Science Speech/Drama Art Other Disciplines Interdisciplinary Humanities
English Literature and Journalism
20-801-207
World Indigenous Literatures
World Indigenous Literatures compares Native American Literature with the literatures of Indigenous peoples around the world (e.g. Latin America, Asia, Africa, Europe, Australasia, and the Pacific Islands). The selection of oral and written materials represents the culture and art of Indigenous groups that originally inhabited any geographical area prior to the arrival of settler-colonial peoples with a central focus on how these materials place US Ethnic issues within a global context.
3 credits
20-801-226
Introduction to African Literature
Introduction to African Literature focuses mainly on the literature of Africa from before colonization to the present. It introduces students to the rich, complex, and varied literary traditions reflected in the works of African writers. It studies developments and achievements in voice, genre, and style and explores issues of language, cultural identity, historical witness, and social and political experience. Individual sections will focus on a particular theme, genre, or period for emphasis.
3 credits
20-801-230
Classical Mythology
Surveys principal myths and legends of Greek and Roman literature in relation to the historical and sociological context of ancient society as well as their importance and influence in modern times. The course will include the reading and analysis of translations of original classical works.
3 credits
20-801-252
World Issues Journalism
World Issues Journalism students explore international journalism and its role in global themes such as environmental issues, public health, poverty, media freedom, gender inequality, religion, and conflict. At the same time, they develop essential skills in podcasting, blogging, news and profile writing, multimedia storytelling, and academic research and writing.
3 credits
History
20-803-204
Renaissance, Reformation, and Revolution
Early Modern European History surveys the major political, economic, social, and cultural transformations from the Renaissance to the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic era. The course examines the changes and conflicts that marked the transition from a medieval to a modern society and how this transformation affected individuals, groups, and institutions in Early Modern Europe.
3 credits
20-803-205
Europe and Modern World
This introductory course in European history studies European societies from the nineteenth century to the present by examining major social, economic, political, and intellectual change and how people and nations responded to profound often cataclysmic events.
3 credits
20-803-208
From Pharaohs to Popes
This course will study the ancient Mediterranean region starting with Old Kingdom Egypt and ending with the fall the of Western Empire in 476 CE. It will chart the development of communities and cultures, examine social and economic conditions, and analyze major intellectual, political, and religious developments in the ancient Mediterranean and in Mesopotamia.
3 credits
20-803-224
History of Sub Saharan Africa
Early African History is an introduction to the civilizations of Africa from early man through the present that focuses on African society before western penetration, the basic nature of African institutions, the colonial experience of Africa and the development of Africa since independence in 1960.
3 credits
20-803-225
World In 20th Century
This course studies the emergence of a global society in the twentieth century by examining the events and trends that helped make the world more integrated and interconnected. The course approaches twentieth century world history by studying globalization, the growth of mass culture, the impact of technological change, ideologies and religions, and how diverse cultures and polities responded to these pivotal developments.
3 credits
20-803-234
Gender and Women’s History
Introduction to gender and women's history from the 19th century to the present with a global perspective. Students will be asked to think critically about the power relations that affect the lives of diverse women in the U.S.-diverse in terms of race, class, ability, sexuality and other markers of power-and will be asked to contemplate the positions of diverse women from around the world.
3 credits
20-803-242
History Nazi Germany-1933-1945
This course chronicles the rise and fall of the Third Reich. To accomplish this, the course will analyze National Socialism's historical roots, investigate Nazism's links with World War 1, chart Nazi Party growth in the 1920s and 1930s, explore the creation of the Nazi state, assess Germany's role in World War II, examine the Holocaust, and consider Nazism's legacy.
3 credits
20-803-243
Modern African History
The course covers the history of Africa from the post-WWII era to the contemporary period. The course examines major events and interactions in Africa and Africa’s relationship with the world. Course themes include, colonial experiences, independence movements, post-independence governments, globalization in Africa, and contemporary societies.
3 credits
Music
20-805-207
World Music
This course surveys diverse musical traditions worldwide, examining how cultures create, perform, and value music. Students develop critical listening skills to identify regional styles and connect them to cultural contexts. Topics include music from Sub-Saharan Africa, Indigenous Americas, Latin America, India, China, and Indonesia, along with an independent research project on a chosen musical culture.
3 credits
20-805-279
World Drumming Ensemble 1
The World Drumming Ensemble is a high-energy ensemble that focuses on world drumming techniques and styles, ensemble listening skills, and techniques for creative improvisation. Warm-up activities, dexterity exercises, traditional music, and contemporary compositions lead a public performance at the end of the semester. Previous drumming experience and the ability to read music are not required.
1 credit
20-805-280
World Drumming Ensemble 2
The World Drumming Ensemble is a high-energy ensemble that focuses on world drumming techniques and styles, ensemble listening skills, and techniques for creative improvisation. Warm-up activities, dexterity exercises, traditional music, and contemporary compositions lead a public performance at the end of the semester.
1 credit
20-805-281
World Drumming Ensemble 3
The World Drumming Ensemble is a high-energy ensemble that focuses on world drumming techniques and styles, ensemble listening skills, and techniques for creative improvisation. Warm-up activities, dexterity exercises, traditional music, and contemporary compositions lead a public performance at the end of the semester.
1 credit
20-805-282
World Drumming Ensemble 4
The World Drumming Ensemble is a high-energy ensemble that focuses on world drumming techniques and styles, ensemble listening skills, and techniques for creative improvisation. Warm-up activities, dexterity exercises, traditional music, and contemporary compositions lead a public performance at the end of the semester.
1 credit
Natural Science
20-806-280
Environmental Issues
Environmental Issues is an introductory, non-laboratory survey course, where we explore the diverse impacts of humans and human society on natural systems. Though fundamentally grounded in the basic principles of biology and ecology, this course is designed to encourage you to consider interdisciplinary approaches to crucial environmental problems, including biological, chemical, political, and ethical interactions between humans and the environment.
3 credits
Social and Behavioral Science
20-809-214
International Economics
This course examines topics in international trade and international finance and the interconnectedness of the world’s economies. It examines economic arguments for trade, current trade policies and practices, the effects of trade restrictions, free and fair trade, foreign exchange markets, and the role of international institutions such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organization. Currency crises and free trade agreements will also be discussed.
3 credits
20-809-223
International Relations
International Relations examines nation-states and non-governmental organizations interactions within the global political system. Students (a) summarize international political history, (b) analyze international political institutions, and (c) evaluate international political and economic issues. Students will complete exams and written assignments.
3 credits
20-809-227
Political Theory
Political Theory examines foundational Western political thinkers and ideas. Students (a) summarize political theory history and thinkers, (b) analyze assumptions of human nature and social solidarity, and (c) evaluate theories of political authority and institutions. Students will complete exams and written assignments.
3 credits
20-809-228
Environmental Economics
This course addresses the interaction between the economy and the environment. Market evaluations include energy, minerals, agriculture, forests, fisheries and tourism. Economic concepts include externality costs, market failure, cost-benefit analysis and definitions of growth. Environmental topics include public health, biodiversity, soil erosion, water quality and atmospheric impacts. Political issues include energy policy, pollution, genetic engineering, land use and environmental justice.
3 credits
20-809-245
Gender and Politics
Gender and Politics covers topics such as feminism, intersectionality, political participation and representation, and social movements. Students in this course will analyze, evaluate, and compare the effects of strategies to enhance gender equality, and women's political participation and representation, across state, national, and international institutions.
3 credits
20-809-246
African Politics
African Politics examines continental political development in an interdisciplinary context. Students summarize African history, analyze internal and external influences on African politics, and evaluate relationship among African states, societies, and interests.
3 credits
20-809-257
Gender and Women’s Studies-Study Abroad Experience
1 credit
20-809-263
East/West World View
East/West Worldviews examines worldviews and their underlying assumptions. The course introduces philosophical issues such as the relationship between science and religion, challenges raised from other perspectives, and contemporary perspectives in religious plurality. The course focuses on the religions originating in India, East Asia, and in the Middle East. It studies the ways in which philosophy and/or religion affects the concepts of nature, self, society, and ultimate reality.
3 credits
20-809-280
General Anthropology
Anthropology is the study of humanity through time and across the world. Anthropology studies all that that it means to be human and the ways humanity has expressed itself. This course will take learners through all of human history, from before our ape ancestors stood up and began walking on two feet up to the present day. Along the way, you'll learn a little bit about the 4 sub-fields of anthropology: Biological Anthropology, Archaeology, Linguistics, and Cultural Anthropology.
3 credits
20-809-281
Archaeology & Prehistoric World
This is a course designed for students who are interested in the human past, the period of prehistory for which there are few written records and most of our knowledge comes to us via archaeological investigations. The course is organized both in a historical and a topical fashion. We will trace the evolution of human culture through time, focusing on the best-known archaeological sites throughout human history.
3 credits
20-809-283
Cultural Anthropology & Human Diversity
This course introduces the discipline of cultural anthropology and provides ideas and skills that can be used to understand the diversity of human cultural expression and practices. It examines both the historical particularism of unique cultures and commonalities shared by all human beings. Students develop and practice tools and methodologies for anthropological research and explore key topics of the field. This course will focus on the cultural complexity of modern urbanized societies such as that of the United States and how anthropology can help students understand their own culture.
3 credits
20-809-285
Anthropology of Myth, Magic, and Religion
An anthropological course designed to explore and examine the place of magic and religion in human culture. Students will look closely and critically at ‘world religions’ (Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, etc.) with analytical exploration of smaller-scale religious and magical practices (shamanism, Wicca, new Age, Cargo Cults, etc.). The forms that magic and religion have taken in human cultures, both past and present, will be covered.
3 credits
Speech/Drama
20-810-254
History Of World Cinema
History of World Cinema examines the history of the film medium, primarily as an art form but also as a form of communication, in the United States and internationally from its origin in the 1800s to the present, highlighting significant movements in its development. Students view domestic and foreign films as a basis for study.
3 credits
Art
20-815-200
Art History: Ancient to Medieval
Surveys the development of pre-historic through Medieval art and architecture in Europe, the near East and Egypt. Emphasis is given to the form and meaning of a group of artworks and buildings, their stylistic tendencies, and respective movements in the history of art, and the socio-political and cultural contexts for these movements.
3 credits
20-815-210
Art History: Renaissance to Modern
This course is a survey of the development of European and American art and architecture from the time of the early Renaissance in Italy through approximately 2000. Emphasis is given to the form and meaning of a select group of artworks and buildings, their stylistic tendencies, and respective movements in the history of art, and the socio-political, historical, and cultural contexts for these movements.
3 credits
20-815-211
Art History: Women In Art
Explores gender studies as they apply to the historical, cultural, and socio-economic context of women artists and feminist art in Western art history. Examines the production of women artists from the Middle Ages through current issues and the ideologies that influence our understanding of and access to the artistic production of women. Theories and experiences of gender, race, class, and sexual orientation will be considered.
3 credits
20-815-228
Art History: Global Arts
Analyze artworks produced around the world from ancient times through the contemporary. Consider artistic production, art criticism, cross-culture exchanges, and aesthetics, to deepen understanding of cultural differences and interactions. Explore a range of media and enhance sensitivity to visual and material forms. Develop a foundation in visual and material analysis.
3 credits
Other Disciplines
10-104-180
Global Marketing
Most businesses today have some international exposure in the form of global customers, suppliers, or other stakeholders. The global marketplace is a dynamic, complex, and diverse environment. Businesses require employees who have solid global competence to navigate this interconnected landscape. This course explores how marketing strategies, along with personal actions, are managed and adapted for success in different cultural, economic, geographic and political environments around the world.
3 credits
10-104-187
Global Studies Seminar
3 credits
10-110-171
Immigration Law
Examine historical, legal, and policy foundations of the field to apply key statutes and regulations to current immigration matters. Differentiate between temporary (non-immigrant) visa categories and examine permanent visa requirements, and prepare necessary legal forms for both, including citizenship and naturalization documentation. Outline processes for seeking asylum, refugee status, and humanitarian protection. Locate rules related to removal, and its defenses, and summarize enforcement and detention rules governing U.S. borders. Apply interview and fact-gathering techniques, use analytical skills and critical thinking to solve practical legal problems, and apply ethical principles.
3 credits
10-304-129
History of Interior Design
This course focuses on furniture and architecture from Egyptian up to Modern, as well as the history of the Interior Design Profession.
3 credits
Interdisciplinary Humanities
Students must meet the honors eligibility requirements to register for the following Honors courses. For more information, see the Honors Program page (https://madisoncollege.edu/honors).
20-802-802
Honors-Interdisciplinary Global Studies (2cr)
Allows a qualified Honors student to pursue a special concentration of study under the guidance of a faculty member. Requires completion of an Honors Project Contract. Credits 2. May be taken more than once. Pre-requisite: 1) minimum of 12 credits at Madison College, a 3.5 or higher GPA, and a previous or concurrent course with Honors Instructor; or 2) High School GPA of 3.5 or higher, and permission of Honors Instructor.
2 credits
20-802-902
Honors-Interdisciplinary Global Studies (3cr)
Allows a qualified Honors student to pursue a special concentration of study under the guidance of a faculty member. Requires completion of an Honors Project Contract. Credits 3. May be taken more than once. Pre-requisite: 1) minimum of 12 credits at Madison College, a 3.5 or higher GPA, and a previous or concurrent course with Honors Instructor; or 2) High School GPA of 3.5 or higher, and permission of Honors Instructor.
3 credits
Study Abroad Experience
Every student must complete one approved education abroad (or equivalent) experience, whether it is a short-term or long-term program. Some study abroad programs may also provide credits towards the certificate. To see a list of study abroad programs offered through Madison College, visit the Study Abroad Website (https://madisoncollege.edu/education-abroad). Students may inquire with the certificate advisor about the possibility of fulfilling this requirement through a service-learning experience.
How to Apply
Earning a certificate is a great way to expand your skill set and add professionalism to your resume. Applications are always open, so apply today!
International students who wish to apply for, maintain, or transfer their F-1 student visa status to Madison College are required to complete the International Admission Process.
There are no admission requirements for this certificate. Simply submit your application by the deadline for each term.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
Application open
Application completion deadline is November 15, 2026
Spring 2027
Application open
Application completion deadline is April 15, 2027
Fall 2027
Application available on October 15, 2026
Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Additional Notes
Certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid.
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Interdisciplinary Global Studies career.
It's Free to Apply
Career Outcomes
After completing the Interdisciplinary Global Studies certificate at Madison Area Technical College, you will be knowledgeable in:
Cultural Awareness: Demonstrate awareness of and sensitivity to other cultures’ norms, practices and actions while at the same time recognizing, acknowledging and appreciating individual differences.
Intercultural Communications: Communicate effectively and respectfully with diverse peoples in intercultural teams and work groups.
World Languages: Speak and write in another language while recognizing and respecting the importance of language diversity (all languages) in global communication.
International Travel: Exhibit preparedness/readiness for international travel, including the abilities to assess and respond to health and safety risks and adapt to unpredictable situations.
Global Citizenship: Recognize self as a part of global culture by demonstrating awareness of the interdependence of global systems, understanding how the United States may be perceived worldwide, solving problems with multiple perspectives and variables, and making globally responsible decisions.
Global Work Skills: Apply global perspectives to the workplace through the use of appropriate technology for international communication, the ability to collaborate with diverse co-workers, and the ability to adapt to variances between cultures in occupational processes, procedures and practices, and through recognizing the impact of the global economy on various occupations and professions.