Language Proficiency
Advanced language proficiency in at least one modern European language other than English. This requirement can be fulfilled by successful completion of a 204-level course in French, German, Italian, Spanish, or another language spoken in Europe. Test scores, AP exam scores, transfer courses and language courses taken abroad qualify as well.
Study Abroad / Internship
Participation in a study abroad program in one of the European countries. The program needs to be approved by the CES adviser. In special circumstances students can petition to complete the requirement with an internship related to a European country or the European Union either in the US or abroad. Students who participate in a study abroad program and complete an internship, can count the internship as one of the 4 free elective courses for the Certificate.
Courses
Gateway Courses (2)
Two gateway courses need to be taken at Catholic University
- EURO 201: European Culture
Interdisciplinary seminar, covering a special cultural topic - EURO 202: European Politics OR
EURO 203: European History
Introduction to the politics and history of Europe and the European Union. Students are required to take one of the two courses (either EURO 202 or EURO 203)
Elective Courses (4)
4 Elective Courses: These courses must be from at least 2 different departments and a minimum of two courses must be from a department outside the student's major. The courses can be selected from a list of approved courses. Courses not listed, including transfer courses and courses taken abroad, requireapproval by the CES adviser to be counted toward the Certificate Program.
Enrollment in the Program
The CES is open to all undergraduate students at CUA who have declared a major. Students can sign up for the Certificate in European Studies at any time after consultation with both the CES adviser and their academic adviser.
Progress and Advising
Students are required to meet with the CES adviser each semester to discuss course selection, to ensure that selected courses are eligible for CES credit, and to discuss their progress toward fulfilling the language proficiency and study abroad requirements. Students must obtain prior approval from the CES adviser for participation in study abroad programs and for internship selections to ensure that they will count for their Certificate.
Exit Requirements and Distinction
Certificate students are highly encouraged to focus on a topic related to European Studies in the senior project they complete in their major (senior thesis, senior paper or project). Students who complete a senior project in their major with a topic related to European Studies and graduate with at least a 3.2 GPA average in the Certificate courses, will be awarded the Certificate in European Studies with Distinction.