Certificate in International Studies

The Certificate in International Studies is designed to foster the development of global citizens through academic coursework, participation in TCU-sponsored global programs, and interaction with international communities. The specific criteria for the certificate is as follows:
 
Criteria for the Certificate
 
KNOWLEDGE: To demonstrate how they are prepared to interact in the world with knowledge, students must:

• 1 credit, pre-departure intercultural seminar course
• Study Abroad (may include internship and/or student teaching abroad) for a minimum of 3 weeks
• One of the following: 
  Complete a major or minor in a foreign language 
  Complete a minor in Asian Studies, British Studies, or Classical Studies
  Complete 9 credit hours from list of selected courses as defined by the Center for International Studies Faculty Advisory Board. 

SKILLS & APPLICATION: To demonstrate how they have applied their international knowledge into skills, students must participate in one of the following:

• Model UN
• International Leadership Spring Break 
• Undergraduate Festival of Scholarship and Creativity with a project focused on international issues
• Global Leadership Seminar
• *Other projects may be deemed appropriate       
   

INTERACTIVE PERSPECTIVES: To demonstrate how they have developed positive intercultural relations through intercultural relations with culturally-different others, students must show active participation for at least one semester in one of the following:

• 40 hours of community service with international theme
• Alternative Spring Break
• ISA (International Student Association)                           
• Conversation Partners (Intensive English Program)
• Student language associations                                          
• *Other cultural associations may be deemed appropriate  

Students must  apply to the program prior to starting the activities and keep a journal throughout their participation in the program. 

For more information and an application, contact Dr. Tracy Williams, Associate Director of the Center for International Studies: TCU Abroad, 817-257-7473, Rickel 246.                  

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this program for me?
The Certificate in International Studies is open to all students at TCU.  It can be added to any major.  It is designed for students who are interested in gaining international competency and having international or intercultural experiences throughout their 4 years at TCU. 

What are the benefits?
The Certificate in International Studies provides students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives to succeed in the global community.  The Certification is marked on the TCU transcript, and students can list it on their resume.  Students wear a stole at graduation of the country/ies where they studied.

When and how do I start?
Students are encouraged to complete their intent to participate during their first year at TCU.  Students must be advised by Dr. Tracy Williams no later than the fall semester of their second year, to determine their goals and plan their schedule so that they can complete all of the elements of the Certificate during their four years.