The Honors Global Challenges & Solutions (HGLO) program is a key component of the University’s vision for education in the 21st century. It introduces students to the intellectual and social knowledge and skills needed to seize opportunities and address challenges related to globalization and data science.

We value cultural, intellectual, and philosophical diversity and strive to create a welcoming environment where differences can be shared and openly discussed. Our goal is to offer an integrated experience that helps students develop both analytical skills and a global perspective, preparing them to navigate an increasingly interconnected and diverse world.

Mission

• Our mission is to advance understanding of global challenges through rigorous scholarship and practical experience, equipping individuals with robust data science skills to drive effective solutions worldwide.

Vision

• We envision a future where students evolve into global citizens equipped with deep insights into complex global issues and empowered with advanced analytical tools to actively contribute towards successful solutions.

Program Learning Outcomes

Honors Global Challenges & Solutions has four learning outcomes that align with our program's commitment to global understanding, rigorous scholarship, practical experience, and the development of data science skills to drive effective solutions.

• Learning Outcome 1: Develop a solid foundation in data science.
  Students will be comfortable using base R and widely used packages (e.g., ggplot and the rest of the tidyverse suite). Students will be able to utilize R to summarize trends in the data and create meaningful data visualizations about world issues. 

• Learning Outcome 2: Develop advanced analytical and research skills.
  Gain the analytical skills to critically evaluate and interpret  real-world data. This includes becoming proficient in statistical analysis, and the fundamentals of research design. This skillset will empower students to conduct original research on global topics.

• Learning Outcome 3: Build an inclusive and intercultural community.
  Create and sustain an inclusive, interculturally-conscious community that supports academic and personal success. 

• Learning Outcome 4: Equip students for global citizenship and professional development.
  Prepare students for life and work in an interconnected world. This includes acquiring knowledge about global challenges and solutions through scholarship, as well as practical skills through experiential learning, study abroad programs, and professional development

Core Values

At HGLO, our core values guide our mission and shape our community. These principles reflect our commitment to fostering an inclusive, dynamic, and intellectually stimulating environment where students can thrive. Our values are:

• Scholarship: We value an analytical approach to understanding the extent and limits of globalization and to consider just and effective solutions to global problems.

• Experience: We view students' real-life experiences on campus, in the local community, and abroad as integral to their academic journey.

• Self-Reflection: We encourage students to explore their own identities and cultures within a global context.

• Community: We promote a welcoming, respectful, diverse, and open-minded community.We strive to foster a sense of belonging among our students within our community, empowering them to become active global citizens.