Study Abroad and Language Requirements

IGS is committed to (1) study abroad and (2) engagement with citizens of the host country while the student is abroad. For most tracks students are expected to study a dominant language of the host country. The intention is a program with clear expectations for majors but at the same time with sufficient flexibility to accommodate unique situations.

IGS majors are expected to study abroad at least one semester (or the summer equivalent) in a country relevant to their track. The choice of the study abroad program should conform to the individual shape of each major’s academic plan, including preparation for the senior thesis. Exceptions are considered by the chair in consultation with the track director only on written petition (for example, when the student’s academic program might be better served by a more limited summer program).


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Majors in most tracks take at least one course taught in the language of the host country (e.g., while studying in Argentina, either a Spanish language course or a course on Argentine history taught in Spanish). Exceptions must be approved in advance by the chair, in consultation with the track director.

For language intensive tracks (i.e., Francophone World, Germany, Hispanic World, Russia), at least four courses are required at the 300 level or above in the relevant language department. In writing their senior seminar paper, majors in these tracks are expected to utilize their foreign language in the way established by the program committee of each track.

For all other tracks any language requirements beyond the College requirement (i.e., for Africa, Global Relations, International Development, Latin America) is to be determined by the program committee of each track.

The college form for approval of courses to be taken while abroad is signed by the student, the track director, and the chair.