International Studies Minor

21 semester hours

The International Studies Minor at East Stroudsburg University is designed to provide the undergraduate student with an interdisciplinary program of coursework and international experience that enhances the knowledge and skills acquired in the student’s chosen major.

Students pursuing this minor become better equipped to engage the process of globalization in an informed way. In addition, they develop a multilingual dimension that is not only sought by employers but also advocated nationally as a step toward constructive world citizenship. The minor is open to all matriculating students at East Stroudsburg University, and it may be used to enrich any degree program.

In conjunction with his or her academic adviser and with a member of the Modern Language Department, the student develops a plan of coursework fulfilling two areas of study, as follows:

A. Focused coursework on an international theme (up to 12 credits)

International themes might include area studies, economic interdependence, global environmental issues, comparative cultural studies, transnational business, world political systems, international healthcare alternatives, or others.

Specific requirements:

At least six of the 12 credits must be from the following departments: Economics, Geography, History or Political Science. Only three of the 12 credits may be from a 100-level course. At least six of the 12 credits must be at the 300/400 level. All courses must fit the student’s pre-approved study plan.

More than 12 credits may be accepted for this requirement if fulfillment of the language requirement (below) requires fewer than nine credits.

B. Foreign language proficiency (up to nine credits)

Students must achieve Intermediate-level fluency in a second (or third) language. This requirement may be met in a number of ways.

Native English-speaking students have two options:

• They may complete semesters 1 through 4 of a language offered at ESU. Students with some prior experience or coursework with the language may be placed directly into level 2, 3 or 4, as determined by the placement process followed within the Modern Language Department.
• Alternatively, they may be evaluated as having achieved Intermediate-equivalent proficiency via transfer credits in language from another university (U.S. or foreign), or via other non-academic experiences. In this case, the evaluation will be made by members of the Modern Language Department or by other appropriate language professionals.

Students whose native language is not English

may seek recognition of fluency in their native language, and will be asked to fulfill two requirements:

• Completion of a course designed specifically for native speakers of their language, such as the one currently offered regularly at ESU for Spanish. If unavailable in the desired language, the course may be waived at the discretion of the Modern Language Department.
• Completion of six credits of coursework in a language that is neither English nor their native language.

Students will be very strongly encouraged to engage in a semester-length or summer study abroad experience, with appropriate guidance provided. Credits earned overseas can be applied toward completion of the minor’s 21 credits.

A quality point average of 2.5 must be maintained.

Upon completion of both components of the minor the student will write a final essay that includes reflections on his or her coursework and intercultural experiences.