Globally Engaged Citizens Program

Students at Notre Dame engage in an abundance of activities that illustrate how deeply they are involved in multilingual and cross-cultural learning. Our language and culture departments and the CSLC offer a plethora of experiences, events, and activities that our students participate in or help organize, including study abroad opportunities, international research programs and also service in the local community.

The Globally Engaged Citizens Program recognizes the learning that students are already engaged in, and also encourages students to consider taking courses in foreign languages or participate in deeper and more rewarding levels of engagement with foreign languages and cultures. The Globally Engaged Citizens Program aligns with the goal of Notre Dame language departments to integrate real-world applications of languages across the curricula while giving the students agency in their learning. 

Components of the Globally Engaged Citizens Program

1. Academic Coursework / Certification
2. Intercultural or international experiences and activities
3. Reflective essay/video

Students will provide all the information needed to obtain the Globally Engaged Citizens Program in the Canvas platform in order to receive credit for activities performed. Each activity is awarded points. Students will be awarded the certificate at graduation when a minimum number of points has been accrued.

View Program Requirements

Frequently asked questions

Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions about the Globally Engaged Citizen Program. They are compiled from questions that students have asked in previous semesters. If you do not see your question, please reach out to the CSLC (cslcstaf@nd.edu) and we will help you.

1. Do I need to do all course work and activities in one language?
   No, you do not need to fulfill all requirements in one language.
    
2. Do I need to hand in my digital portfolio as soon as it is finished?
   No, the digital portfolio is due shortly before you graduate from ND. We will publish the latest date for submission of each year's graduating class on the Canvas course. 
    
3. Can I submit my files for review and suggestions before it is finalized?
   No, we receive and view only finalized portfolios but if you have any question or need advice, feel free to reach out to us.
    
4. How do I know if a specific class would count as "intercultural content?
   If the course description is not clearly stating this content, send us the course information and we will let you know.
    
5. What do I need to do to complete the program?
   Students will create an electronic portfolio that will allow them to collect their activities and reflections for review. This electronic portfolio can also be used as the foundation for a portfolio that can be used in job searches after graduation.
    
6. When does the portfolio need to be completed?
   To receive the award, students must complete their portfolios and submit them in Canvas six weeks before graduation.​