Undergraduate European Union Studies Certificate

The undergraduate Certificate in European Union Studies is crafted to allow students in any major – from sciences and professional disciplines to languages and other liberal arts – to enhance their program of study without extra tuition cost and usually with no increase in their overall course load. The certificate integrates language study with study of EU history, politics and policy.

Academic Requirements
Certificate requirements have three components: Language proficiency, EU Studies courses, and an electronic portfolio.

  1. Language Proficiency
    A student must complete two years of study (four semesters) in an official European language (excluding English). Languages currently available include: Spanish, German, French, Italian, Swedish, Modern Greek, Irish Gaelic, Portuguese, Hungarian, Polish and Slovak. Students may request placement tests through the language department.
     
  2. European Union Studies Courses
    Six EU Studies courses (18 credits) from at least three different departments must be completed. These courses will include:

      - PS 1317 Politics of the European Union
      - One course on the historical foundation of the EU (see approved courses list)
      - Four additional courses on the EU (or with significant EU content) (see approved courses list)
     
  3. Digital Portfolio
    Students will develop a brief digital portfolio where they can reflect on their studies, explain the connection between the classes used to complete the requirements, and present examples of their work. Students may include papers or projects developed as class assignments, observations from study abroad, insights gained from pre-professional experiences such as work internships, extra curricular activities, and exceptional coursework to highlight their expertise in EU Studies. The portfolio can also serve as part of an online resumé, highlighting a student’s experiences, skills and interests.
     
  4. Certificate Advising
    In order to obtain maximum benefit from the program, students should meet regularly with the Assistant Director, Steve Lund. Mr. Lund advises on the completion of requirements, and opportunities that complement classroom learning, such as internships and research opportunities. 

Certificate Courses That Also Count for General Education Requirements
The following lists includes courses that count towards the EU certificate and general Education Requirements at the same time.