Prepare for your Future!
The Office of International Programs provides a unique opportunity for SFA students to earn a certificate that confirms that the individual has participated in the necessary activities to become an internationally competent person. With this recognition, you will have a tremendous advantage in the globally competitive job market or in applying to graduate programs.
This certification is open to all undergraduate SFA students!
After earning the International Competency Certificate the student will demonstrate:
- The ability to successfully adapt to new environments, challenges, and situations.
- The ability to communicate in a second language other than English.
- International leadership skills.
- Responsibility demonstrated by prioritizing tasks and duties.
- The ability to accept and understand people with different backgrounds; leading to a friendlier and more productive environment
International Competency
Why Is It Important?
To be globally competitive, U.S. companies look worldwide for the best job candidates.
Are you prepared to compete?
The SFA Certificate of International Competency is designed to enhance your preparation for the global environment of business, creativity, and scholarship. Increase your cross-cultural knowledge, skills, and experiences that employers and graduate programs are looking for!
How Can I Get a Certificate?
FIRST - Fill out the Application Form and bring it to International Programs - Liberal Arts North, Room 402.
We will start your official tracking sheet to monitor your progress.
SECOND - Start working on the Academic and Global Engagement Components of the certificate.
These need to be documented over time so International Programs can track your progress.
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Academic: Complete at least 9 credit hours of internationally-focused course work (see details for course listings) and show proficiency in a modern foreign language.
- Verify these by sending your transcript to International Programs
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Global Engagement: Participate in at least 50 "points" of international activities (study abroad, student mentoring, and more).
- Verify each activity by completing an Activity Verification Form for any events that you participate in (this also needs to be signed by the activity sponsor and given to the Office of International Programs).
FINALLY - Create and present a CAPSTONE PROJECT to showcase your international know-how.
This will be in the form of a public presentation open to the SFA community. Show us what you've learned and how you've grown by participating in the program.
Details about the Program
Here are more Specific Requirements of the program.
Here is a List of Courses that may help you complete the Academic Component of the Certificate. **Remember that all courses must be approved with your Academic Advisor and the Director of International Programs.
Here is a List of International Activities that may help you complete the Global Engagement Component of the Certificate. Verify each activity by completing an Activity Verification Form for any program that you participate in (this also needs to be signed by the activity sponsor and given to the Office of International Programs).
The following table provides general guidelines on the awarding of points. Point totals may vary.
| Activity | Points |
| Attend an international event | 1 point |
| Participate in an international event | 3 points |
| Attend an internationally-focused conference | 5 points |
| Participate in a short-term study abroad program (faculty-led or independent) | 10 points |
| Participate in a long academic term study abroad program | 20 points |
| Mentor an international student for a semester | 10 points |