FAQs

Where is the International Studies program assistant's office?

  • The office is in Gates-Blake 117. The office for senior preceptors is in Gates-Blake 218-B. Mail for the major should be directed to G-B 119.

What are the office hours?

  • The office hours vary from quarter to quarter. Please consult the signup sheet on G-B 117 for details, or call 834-1184.

How do I become an International Studies Major?

  • There is an informal process by which you can join our mailing list. This includes filling out a short information form (which enrolls you in the IS listhost). That form is available here or in Pick 116. If you are beyond your second year, you should also have your college advisor create a degree program form for the major. Declaring your major officially is done through your college advisor.

As an International Studies major, will I receive extra consideration in applying for study abroad opportunities?

  • No, no special consideration will be given to you in applying for study abroad opportunities.

Do I have to fulfill the study abroad requirement if I am a foreign student?

  • No, this requirement will be waived by petition for foreign students who are able to demonstrate significant international experience in a structured educational setting.

Will study abroad programs unaffiliated with the University of Chicago still satisfy my study abroad requirement?

  • Yes, if approved by the IS program. Appropriate study abroad programs should be at least 10 weeks and in a structured academic environment. Please consult a member of the IS program staff for details. Both language and civilization programs count.

What is the language requirement?

  • Students must demonstrate proficiency in a single language at the seventh quarter level or above. Proficiency is demonstrated either through the University advanced proficiency exam or a passing grade in a course at the seventh-quarter level or above.  Study beyond this level is strongly encouraged.

What is the proficiency exam and how can I take it?

  • The proficiency exam is a four-part language exam: writing, reading, listening and speaking. Exams in most languages are given each quarter. Some language exams are still in development. Consult the College's language certificate page for more information.

What courses can I take to fulfill the major?

  • Each year the program releases a list of approved courses, available on the web site. These courses are updated each quarter.

I have taken or want to take a course that is relevant to my IS major, but it is not on the approved list of courses. What do I do?

  • This is a common occurrence. You should submit a college petition explaining the course’s relevance to your studies and a syllabus from the course by the third week of the quarter.

I have taken over the requirement of courses I need for a B.A. in International Studies. How do I choose which will be counted towards my concentration GPA?

  • Your college advisor will work with you to include the courses on your degree program that are most advantageous.

What are the major’s requirements for seniors?

  • All seniors must write a B.A. thesis. This process begins in the Spring of a student’s third year when they must submit a thesis proposal and find a faculty member who agrees to advise this topic.
  • In the Fall and Winter quarter of their fourth year, seniors are required to take the B.A. thesis seminar.
  • Special arrangements regarding the Winter quarter seminar can be made for double-majors Students should discuss their options with the IS Program Assistant.
  • Theses are due Friday of second week of the quarter in which you graduate.

I am a dual major. Can I write one B.A. paper for both International Studies and my other major?

  • It most situations, yes. The topic must be approved by both majors.

How do I receive honors in the major?

  • The major requires students to have an over-all GPA of 3.0 or better and an in-major GPA of 3.5 or better. Your thesis must also be recommended for honors for both the preceptor and the faculty advisor. The major also awards a thesis prize each year.

If you have additional questions, please e-mail Program Assistant, Stacie Hanneman.