The International Studies certificate is an interdisciplinary program which is flexibly structured to promote the interests of both the career oriented student and the student whose expectations of a Liberal Arts education include enhancement of one's capacity to function as an informed citizen and to understand and enjoy the world.  For the student who has already made a career choice, such as toward Business or Journalism, this certificate provides the opportunity to demonstrate flexibility and a breadth of perspective and interests that is increasingly attractive to prospective employers. 
 

        Additionally, it is excellent preparation for admission to graduate programs such as in Political Science, Public Affairs, International Studies, Foreign Service, International Management, International Communication, and International Business.  Finally, this program is an opportunity for any student to examine the significant international dimension of everyday life: a civil disturbance abroad, which becomes the cause of a perceived security threat; the immediate local impact of economic decisions made abroad; and the importance of foreign markets. 
 

     The International Studies Certificate is an interdisciplinary program that is flexibly structured to allow students of any undergraduate major to develop perspective on international issues and background on politics and policies in other countries. The course of study includes development of language or methodology tools, and core and supplementary courses in one of three tracks: industrialized countries, developing countries, or thematic specialization. 

     The program offers both focus and flexibility to IS Certificate students.  One’s individual program of study will be worked out in cooperation with the IS director, reflecting the student’s interests and career goals as well as recommendations by the IS director or other faculty concerning what UPJ can offer to achieve the student’s objective.

      Not all students will have a clear blueprint of the course of study they have in mind when they register for the IS-Certificate. The IS program offers two tracks that emphasize distinct global regions (industrial, developing), each with a well-defined objective, within which students may choose from a list of recommended pre-approved courses or, alternatively find appropriate substitutes, which, however, need prior approval. A third track (thematic specialization) allows a student to develop a thematic interest across regions.