India Studies Certificate Program

Program Description

The India Studies Certificate Program at the University of Central Florida (UCF) offers undergraduates a comprehensive exploration of India’s rich and diverse landscape. This interdisciplinary program delves into the social sciences and humanities, providing students with a nuanced understanding of India’s domestic, international, civilizational and cultural dimensions. The India Studies Certificate Program is designed to immerse students in the multifaceted aspects of Indian society, politics, economy, and culture. Through a series of carefully curated courses, students will gain insights into India’s historical evolution, contemporary issues, and its increasing role on the global stage.

Certificate Requirements

  • A grade of “C” (2.0) or better is required for a course to count towards the certificate.
  • Nine credit hours used towards the certificate must be earned at UCF. Exceptions may be made at program director’s discretion.
  • At least one of the restricted electives must be at 3000 level or higher.
  • At least three credit hours used towards the certificate must come from courses taken within SPSIA (INR, CPO, POS, or POT prefixes).
  • Course substitutions are possible with prior approval by the program advisor.

Prerequisite Courses

Students must satisfy each course’s prerequisites before enrolling in the class.

Other Requirements

Internship, Honors Undergraduate Thesis, Study Abroad, Independent Study, and substitute courses/new courses are allowed with the approval from the certificate advisor (up to 3 credit hours).

Curriculum

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Cultural Competence and Global Awareness: Students will develop a deep appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage, including its traditions, languages, and religions.
  2. Historical Insight and Analytical Skills: Students will enhance their analytical skills, enabling them to identify, describe, and explain the effects of global historical events on India’s politics and economy.
  3. Career Readiness in International Fields: The program equips students with knowledge and skills relevant to careers in international relations, global business, and multicultural environments.
  4. Interdisciplinary Learning and Networking: Students will benefit from an interdisciplinary approach that covers social sciences and humanities and opens networking opportunities with Indian communities worldwide.
  5. Enhanced Career Prospects: Knowledge of India and its global connections can enhance career prospects in fields such as diplomacy, international development, education, and cultural exchange programs.

Degree Requirements

Required Courses (3 Total Credits)

Complete at least 1 of the following:

  • CPO4560 – Politics of India (3 credits)
  • INR4210 – India’s World: Foreign Policy and (inter)National Security of a Rising Power (3 credits)
  • ASH4550 – History of Modern India (3 credits)

If more than one Required Course is taken, the courses will count towards the Restricted Electives.

Restricted Electives (9 Total Credits)

Complete at least 3 of the following:

  • ASH3384 – Women and Gender in South Asia (3 credits)
  • ASH3622 – Islam in South Asia (3 credits)
  • ASH4324 – History & Culture of South Asia (3 credits)
  • ASH4383 – Imperialism & Decolonization in South Asia (3 credits)
  • ASH4550 – History of Modern India (3 credits)
  • CPO4560 – Politics of India (3 credits)
  • INR4210 – India’s World: Foreign Policy and (inter)National Security of a Rising Power (3 credits)
  • INR4224 – Contemporary International Politics of Asia (3 credits)
  • LIT3833 – Modern Asian Literature (3 credits)
  • REL3123 – Asian Religions in America (3 credits)
  • REL3333 – Hinduism (3 credits)
  • REL3340 – Buddhism (3 credits)

Grand Total Credits: 12

Program Details

The India Studies Certificate Program at the University of Central Florida (UCF) offers undergraduates a comprehensive exploration of India’s rich and diverse landscape. This interdisciplinary program delves into the social sciences and humanities, providing students with a nuanced understanding of India’s domestic, international, civilizational and cultural dimensions. The India Studies Certificate Program is designed to immerse students in the multifaceted aspects of Indian society, politics, economy, and culture. Through a series of carefully curated courses, students will gain insights into India’s historical evolution, contemporary issues, and its increasing role on the global stage.

Related Programs and Departments

The certificate incorporates courses from the following departments:

  • English
  • History
  • Philosophy
  • School of Politics, Security, and International Affairs

Internship/Practicum Experiences

  • Internship at the India Center will count as 3 restricted elective credits.
  • Internship at other sites may be accepted with prior approval by the program advisor.