Certificate
Bring a global perspective to your degree.
The Certificate in International Studies is a flexible, interdisciplinary program for students who want to better understand the global forces shaping their fields of study, communities, and futures.
This certificate enhances any Major and is open to students from across SFU in any degree program in the social sciences, humanities, business, communication, health sciences, engineering, science, environment, technology, and other fields.
Students can select the IS courses most relevant to their interests including those grouped in the following three broad areas:
- Peace and Conflict Studies
- International Human Rights and Development
- Global Affairs
Whether you are interested in international conflict and security, human rights, development, diplomacy, global politics, or regional dynamics, the Certificate allows you to explore the international questions most relevant to your interests and goals.
How International Studies can enhance your degree
Jessica Tsigaros | BA, major in sociology, minor in international studies
Incorporating a minor in International Studies into my bachelor’s degree diversified my academic knowledge, theoretical background, and practical skill set beyond my Sociology major. Furthermore, many of the courses were highly engaging and intellectually stimulating. Simply being associated with the department and having access to events, seminars, research labs, and other opportunities opened many doors for me, both personally and professionally.
Lisa Kim | BA, double major in Political Science (Honours) and Criminology, double minor in International Studies and Public Policy
The International Studies minor challenged me to think critically about the structures and power dynamics which govern the complex issues within global, foreign, and domestic affairs. The research‑focused upper‑division IS courses led me to concentrate much of my work on Asian studies, and I realized that I would want to continue that trajectory through a subsequent MA in addition to a Juris Doctor. The IS minor ultimately turned my curiosity about the world into concrete projects, job opportunities, and pathways.
Learn from internationally engaged faculty
The School for International Studies is home to an accomplished group of faculty whose expertise includes human rights and humanitarianism, international relations, law and governance, international development, and security studies.
Their teaching and research are grounded in deep regional knowledge from around the world, giving students opportunities to examine global issues through diverse perspectives and real-world examples.
Flexible program requirements and valuable skill building
The Certificate in International Studies consists of 18 units.
Students complete:
- Two lower-division International Studies courses.
- Three upper-division International Studies courses.
The certificate helps students develop skills that are valuable across sectors and professions. Through their coursework, students strengthen their ability to:
- Analyze complex global challenges from multiple perspectives.
- Communicate clearly about international and cross-cultural issues.
- Evaluate evidence, policies, and competing viewpoints.
- Understand how global developments affect local communities and organizations.
- Work thoughtfully across cultural, political, and disciplinary differences.
Declaration requirements
Students declare to the certificate program after completing IS 101. Send your request to advising_is@sfu.ca, along with a copy of your advising transcript.
The minimum CGPA to enroll and graduate with the certificate in International Studies is 2.0.
