The Global Awareness Program Certificate (GAP) allows students to explore the world at KU and beyond through a combination of coursework, on-campus events, and international experiences. Open to all majors, GAP highlights students’ knowledge of and experience with the broader world. Greater understanding of political, social, and economic landscapes outside the United States will better prepare students for the demands of our interconnected world. Noted on the official transcript, GAP expands students' worldview and resume.
By completing GAP, you will:
- View the world from various perspectives through courses and hands-on experiences.
- Engage with people from the 100+ countries represented at KU. Meet friends from around the world, experience new cultures and create a global network.
- Communicate your broad cultural knowledge and skills to future employers.
GAP combines courses, on-campus cultural activities, and study abroad. Complete 2 components to earn the certificate and all 3 for GAP with Distinction.
Undergraduate Certificate in Global Awareness
Global Awareness Program (GAP)
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Open to all undergraduates
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Complete 2 components to earn GAP OR Complete all 3 to earn GAP with Distinction
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Noted on official transcript
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Offers a competitive advantage and a unique way to highlight your international experience
Academics
Domestic Students
- A minimum of 2 semesters of college-level study in the same modern foreign language
- AND 3 courses with a modern, international focus from 3 different departments (2 different departments for STEM students)
International Students
- Pass the English Proficiency Exam through the Applied English Center (AEC), or receive an English requirement waiver
- Native English-speakers need to pass two semesters of a foreign language
- AND 2 courses with a modern international focus and 1 course with a U.S. focus.
On-Campus Cultural Activities
- Participate in 20 hours of on-campus activities that have an international and/or cultural focus outside of your nationality and/or religion.
- Answer reflection questions on your activities
International Experience
Domestic students
- Participate in a KU-approved study/research/internship abroad program for credit.
- Once you return, answer short-answer reflection questions or participate in a discussion group
International students
- Your time at KU counts as your international experience. Answer short-answer reflection questions or participate in a discussion group
At the completion of this program, students will be able to:
- identify and examine cultural perspectives outside of the United States, recognize and develop an awareness of their identity within the global community, and interact respectfully with a variety of cultures.
