Certificates
Complement your major with an interdisciplinary certificate program.
Certificates emphasize regional or thematic areas of interest and serve as a blueprint for selecting elective coursework. For example, a student majoring in Science, Technology and International Affairs might choose to pursue a certificate in Arab Studies to integrate their interests in technology with an understanding of its role in shaping revolutionary forces in the Middle East.
If you are considering earning a certificate, we encourage you to meet with your dean to explore ways to integrate certificate courses into your broader academic goals. Successful completion of a certificate program will be noted on your transcript. Please note that, at most, two combined minors and certificates may be pursued (two minors, one minor and one certificate, or two certificates).
Application
Each certificate has its own application form. Once you have decided on a certificate to pursue and have discussed it with both your dean and the certificate’s program advisor, you can submit your application. Certificate applications should be done after declaring your major, as early as the spring semester of your sophomore year and no later than the start of your junior year.
African Studies
Explore the diverse cultures, histories and contemporary issues of Africa. Completing this certificate will deepen your understanding of the continent by engaging with its multifaceted societies and political landscapes. It will also prepare you for various career paths, including international relations, development and cultural studies. The program encourages study abroad opportunities in countries such as Tanzania, Kenya and Ghana, allowing you to immerse yourself in the cultures and languages of Africa.
Arab Studies
Study the language, history and institutions of the Arab world within the context of your discipline. By earning this certificate, you will develop a regional focus that can enhance your education if you intend to pursue a career in this area or if you wish to foster lifelong interests related to it.
Eligibility: Students at the School of Foreign Service and the College may be considered for the Certificate of Arab Studies.
Asian Studies
Explore the diverse cultures, languages and economies of Asia in relation to your field of study. Earning this certificate will equip you with a regional expertise that can enrich your education, whether you plan to embark on a career in this dynamic area or pursue graduate studies.
To register, send your form to Robert Lyons or hand deliver it to ICC 302-B.
Eligibility: Open to all Georgetown University undergraduates.
South Asian Studies
Enrich your major with an interdisciplinary framework to explore the multifaceted cultures, histories and contemporary issues of South Asia. This certificate empowers you to delve deep into the region, creating a robust understanding that can enhance your career prospects in fields such as international relations, development, social sciences and beyond.
To register, send your form to Robert Lyons or hand deliver it to ICC 302-B.
Eligibility: Open to all Georgetown University undergraduates.
Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Studies
Connect your major with a nuanced understanding of the Australasian and Pacific contexts while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the region’s social, political and economic dynamics. By completing six one-semester courses, you will explore subjects that encompass history, government, literature and the arts, providing a well-rounded perspective on the factors shaping these diverse societies.
Diplomatic Studies
Gain an understanding of foreign policy formulation and implementation. Open to all SFS majors, this program builds on the multidisciplinary core curriculum, including international affairs, government, economics, history, and foreign languages.
Through this certificate, you’ll learn that diplomacy is neither synonymous with foreign policy or international relations nor solely the practice of international negotiation or the tradecraft of professional diplomats (e.g., how to deliver a demarche). The certificate complements the IPOL foreign policy/processes field and increases understanding of the practical side of policy creation and execution.
Eligibility: Open to students currently enrolled in BSFS degree program with a declared major.
Deadline: Second semester of sophomore year
Eurasian, Russian and East European Studies
Delve into the diverse cultures, histories and political landscapes of Eurasia, Russia and Eastern Europe through this interdisciplinary certificate program. By completing this certificate, you will engage in a thorough exploration of the region’s languages, economics, politics and social structures. This program is designed to complement your major and enhance your understanding of the region’s significance in global affairs. Whether you’re preparing for a career in international relations, striving to enhance your cultural competence or cultivating personal interests, this certificate will equip you with a nuanced perspective and valuable skills relevant to your field.
To register, complete the interest form and schedule an appointment with Lisa Gordinier, Director of Academic Programs.
Eligibility: Open to all Georgetown University undergraduates.
European Studies
Explore European culture, politics and history to enhance your understanding of Europe alongside your primary field of study. In the certificate, you will examine key historical events, economic systems and governments that have shaped Europe’s global influence. The curriculum includes advanced coursework in a major European language; fostering essential communication skills; and courses in European history, economics, government and electives that offer insight into the region’s ideological and cultural dynamics.
Eligibility: Open to all Georgetown University undergraduates.
International Business Diplomacy
Acquire a comprehensive understanding of how business practices influence global interactions. By completing this certificate, you’ll gain critical insights into the role of diplomacy in international commerce, enhancing your academic pursuits and future career opportunities in sectors like international relations, trade and business.
Eligibility: Full-time students within the School of Foreign Service or in the communication, culture and technology master’s program
Design your degree
Explore our core curriculum, majors and minors options and build a degree that aligns with your interests.
Core curriculum
Our multidisciplinary core curriculum spans key fields such as international affairs, government, economics, history, theology, philosophy and geography.
Majors
Explore our eight undergraduate majors that allow you to engage with the substance of international affairs scholarship from different angles.
Minors
Browse minors to complement your degree. Study languages or choose from diverse subjects to broaden your knowledge and skills.
Joint degree
Together with the McDonough School of Business, we offer an interdisciplinary Bachelor of Science in Business and Global Affairs, that prepares you to lead at the intersection of business and policy.
Co-curricular opportunities
Through our extensive study abroad and global internship options, explore the important issues of your SFS major in the regions where they are having the greatest impact.