University Center for International Studies

The University Center for International Studies (UCIS) is the central coordinating and support mechanism for the international activities of the University of Pittsburgh. As a University-wide center, UCIS supports multidisciplinary programs of research and instruction in international and area studies, linking departments and schools of the University. It connects the University and private and public sector institutions, other universities, and institutions in other countries to strengthen the University's international dimension of teaching, research, and public service. It aids students in their acquisition of international knowledge through certificate programs, study abroad, curriculum development, and seminars; assists faculty in their international research, teaching, and service; and develops and manages international programs and projects. The center offers graduate certificate programs through its four area studies centers (Asian Studies, Latin American Studies, Russian & East European Studies, West European Studies), all of which are designated by the Federal Government as National Resource Centers; this designation identifies a program as being among the best and most comprehensive in the country in research, public service, and teaching in its particular area. An area studies certificate is an additional academic credential, evidencing language proficiency and area knowledge that students find useful for international careers or for advanced degrees with a concentration in a particular world area.

Contact Information

University Center for International Studies

4G Posvar Hall

University of Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA 15260

Phone: (412) 648-7390

Fax: (412) 648-4672

E-mail: ucis@pitt.edu

Web site: http://www.ucis.pitt.edu/

Admission to Certificate Programs

For admission, students must first apply to the relevant professional school or academic department within the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. However, applicants are encouraged to contact UCIS area studies programs as early as possible with questions about the study of the world area in which they are interested. Formal admission to the UCIS certificate programs is accomplished by completing a simple application form. No extra tuition charges are necessary to enroll as a certificate student.

Advising

All area studies certificate programs provide advising services to students interested or registered in certificate programs in addition to regular advising by the students' primary advisors. Center advisors assist in selecting courses, language training, and arranging internships or study abroad to fit the students' academic and personal interests. See the certificate descriptions below for contact information.

Certificate Requirements

Course grades must be at least a C or the course will not be accepted for the certificate program. Graduate certificates in UCIS are awarded after completion of all certificate requirements as well as completion of all requirements for the master's degree, or after the student has passed the comprehensive examinations for the doctorate. Upon graduation, both the academic degree and the certificate are posted on students' transcripts. Specific certificate requirements for each area studies certificate are listed under the program descriptions below.

Major and Degree Options

In addition to its certificate programs, UCIS also participates in the following degree programs:

The MBA/MA Dual Degree Program offered by the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and the Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business, in cooperation with the University Center for International Studies, provides the opportunity to earn two degrees simultaneously: an MBA and an interdisciplinary MA with a world-region focus (Latin America, East Asia, Russia/Eastern Europe, and Western Europe). The MA is granted only in conjunction with an MBA from Katz.

The interdisciplinary MA in East Asian Studies combines advanced language training with study in the social sciences and humanities focusing on East Asia. It is primarily intended for pre-doctoral students who want intensive area training before pursuing a doctoral program in a particular discipline; or for those planning professional careers in government, business, journalism, or pre-college teaching. The Asian Studies Program administers the IDMA, and the degree is granted by the Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures (EALL) in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.

Asian Studies Program

Latin American Studies

West European Studies

East European Studies, Russian Studies, and Soviet Studies