The Department of Global Studies represents an important part of the overall education of all students at the University. The department seeks to expand and enrich the educational experience of KFUPM engineering, science, and industrial management majors through a social science curriculum.

The Department of Global Studies offers courses in the social sciences (sociology, political science, and psychology). The educational goal of the curriculum in General Studies is for students to gain substantive knowledge in these fields of study, and in the process to develop their thinking, communication, and creative abilities. It is important for students to understand human behavior and the social, political, cultural, and historical processes that impact individuals and societies. Such understanding enhances critical thinking, sound judgment, and the more effective performance of occupational roles.