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Global Scholars Program A three-year undergraduate degree

Global scholars students pose in DC building with different country flags behind them

The Global Scholars Program is a highly selective course of study designed for outstanding entering first-year students passionate about creating meaningful change in the world. Global Scholars admits 25 School of International Service (SIS) first-year students to complete their academic requirements on an accelerated timeline, by taking a full course load in the summers after the first and second years. Through a carefully planned sequence of courses, students will:

  • Take two SIS foundation courses as a cohort;
  • Have multiple opportunities to study abroad during their two summers (specialized programming in Belgium/Spain Summer 1, and in Kenya Summer 2) and the standard academic year;
  • Receive support from program faculty, staff, and SIS alumni with career/internship placement through an extensive mentorship program; and
  • Engage in community service and other activities outside of the classroom as a cohort.

The Global Scholars Program is designed for incoming first-year students, therefore current AU/SIS students are not eligible to apply. Global Scholars students can apply for financial aid, including scholarships, toward expenses associated with summer study abroad and/or summer classes, which may be taken online or on campus. Financial aid can be used for a total of eight semesters, including summer course work done after the first and second years of study. This program requires completion of 120 credits.

All students interested in joining the Global Scholars Program should first apply to American University/School of International Service, adhering to all application deadlines and requirements. In addition to the application, Global Scholars applicants must complete a program application, which can be found at the Special Academic Programs page.

Selected
Course Sequencing
Summer Study Abroad
Living Learning Community

Students enrolled in the Global Scholars Program have a carefully sequenced course of study. The program is designed to allow for the completion of 45 credit hours of coursework each calendar year, but recognizes that some students may already have earned college credit prior to matriculation. All Global Scholars are required to complete standard American University requirements-General Education courses, College Writing and Math classes-in addition to SIS coursework, totaling 120 credit hours.

In year one, the sequence of study would include three required courses taken as follows, all of which are taken as a cohort:

  • Fall: 15-17 credits, including World Politics (3 credits)
  • Spring: 15-17 credits, including Introduction to International Relations Research (3 credits)
  • Summer: 12-15 credits, including Advanced International Studies Research (3 credits)

Coursework in years two and three is tailored to the specific needs of each student in accordance with their interests and remaining requirements. In order to complete all university and SIS requirements within three years, it is critical that students work closely with their academic advisor to develop an academic plan.

Students may study abroad in the summers of their first and second years. In the summer of their first year, a six-week program designed exclusively for SIS Global Scholars is split between the AU Madrid and AU Brussels Centers. Students explore a range of contemporary and historical international relations issues and draw upon their on-site experiences to conduct independent research.

In the summer of their second year, students have the opportunity to participate in a six-week summer program at AU’s Nairobi campus in Kenya. During this immersive experience, students complete a for-credit internship and participate in a two-week field study in Kenya’s renowned Turkana Basin, all while engaging deeply with the country’s diverse cultures and complex history. 

Upon successful completion of either program, students earn nine to ten AU credits that apply toward their SIS major. Both programs are led by Global Scholars Director Professor Anders Hardig. Applications open in December and are due by February 1.

Global Scholars spend their first year of study together in a living learning community (LLC), housed within the residence halls. Through the Global Scholars LLC, students attend monthly community meetings, along with the faculty director, to share dinner, discuss program business, and listen to guest speakers from the university, the federal government, and non-governmental organizations. Global Scholars also attend community trips to venues around the Washington, DC, area

The LLC is supported by a student program associate (PA). The PA is a Global Scholars student in their second or third year of study. They attend the cohort classes; work with the faculty directors to implement the experiential, co-curricular, and service components of the class; live in the same residence hall as the first-year students; and act as a mentor and role model to first-year students.

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Have a question? Email us at globalscholars@american.edu

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Frequently Asked Questions

Currently, the Global Scholars Program is exclusively available to incoming first-year students. The first-year Living Learning Community (LLC) is a pivotal component of our program, fostering close-knit relationships and creating a strong foundation for the rest of your academic journey. This unique experience is designed to help students build connections, engage in collaborative learning, and develop a sense of community that extends far beyond the classroom. While we are unable to consider transfer students for this program, we encourage all incoming first-year students to explore the opportunities and benefits the Global Scholars Program has to offer.

The cohort-based learning model at the Global Scholars Program is designed to provide you with a tightly-knit community of peers who share your passions and academic pursuits. You will progress through your academic journey alongside a consistent group of classmates, fostering meaningful connections and collaborative learning experiences. This model encourages deeper discussions, shared academic goals, and a supportive network that extends beyond the classroom. Through collaborative projects, group discussions, and cohort-specific events, you'll develop lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging within the program.

While there are no specific prerequisites for the Global Scholars Program, we encourage applicants to have a strong foundation in academic rigor, critical thinking, and a genuine passion for global issues. High school courses that emphasize writing, research, and interdisciplinary studies will provide a solid basis for success in the program. However, we consider each applicant holistically, taking into account their unique strengths and experiences.

The Global Scholars Program is dedicated to helping students explore and secure meaningful internships and career opportunities. Through our extensive network of alumni, faculty, and industry connections, we offer career development resources, workshops, and events to guide you through the internship search process. 

Yes, Global Scholars may have the flexibility to pursue a minor or even a double major in addition to their Global Scholars curriculum. Students are encouraged to discuss an additional degree with their academic advisor. 

Global Scholars have access to a wide array of resources and support services. These include dedicated academic advisors, peer mentors, and specialized workshops that enhance both academic and personal development. The Global Scholars community itself is a powerful resource, offering opportunities for networking, collaborations, and engagement in various events and initiatives.

At American University, various types of financial aid and scholarships to support students' education in the Global Scholars Program. Admission to the program doesn't guarantee scholarship aid or additional financial assistance. Please refer to the financial aid document under the resources tab for more information.

The Global Scholars Program offers a structured curriculum during the first year, which becomes more flexible in years two and three. This flexibility allows students to select courses that align with their academic interests and aspirations, thereby tailoring their education to suit their individual goals.

Traveling the World with Global Scholars

Mei Miller, SIS/BA ’25

Global Scholars Program

SIS helped give me the skills that were necessary to navigate my time abroad.

My regional focus is on Europe, and having never been abroad prior, this program has helped give me a better understanding of what I am studying at SIS. In the future, I will use what I have learned throughout the rest of my time at AU and beyond.

Learn more about Mei’s experience with the Global Scholars Program.