Certificate of International Competency
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 competitive advantage in the job marketplace as
companies and businesses consider your competency. This certification is open to all SFA students, including
any major or minor. After earning the International Competency Certificate the student will show the following
characteristics:
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.
The International Competency Certification entails different components to ensure exposure to international
experiences. The components include Academic Achievement, Global Engagement, and Capstone Project.
Academics (9 semester credit hours required) - You can take any course related to an international topic.
The Director of International Programs and your major advisor will help you choose and will approve the
courses that you would like to apply towards the certification. You will be surprised; many students find they
have already filled this requirement
The curriculum should intertwine with a standard degree program with no additional hours required.
Completion of the prescribed coursework ensures that you are exposed to a wide array of international
experiences in a classroom setting, as well as provided with valuable training to carry into your future
profession.
Language Requirement - You are required to take 8 credit hours of a language or demonstrate language
proficiency (equivalent to successful completion of a 132 level course). If you are taking language courses on
a Study Abroad program overseas, you can count those as part of the certification, as well as the Study
Abroad program itself.
Global Engagement - The Global Engagement component consists of co-curricular experiences both on and
off campus. You will earn points as determined by the Director of International Programs. SFA presents
numerous opportunities to connect with different cultures, through International Student organizations and their
events, on-campus chapters of International Organizations, and even mentoring international students on
campus. Here are some examples of co-curricular activities:
Becoming an active member of an International Organization.
Assisting and engaging with international students at the International Food Festival.
Becoming a volunteer for the International Fashion Show.
Becoming a Study Abroad ambassador, promoting the benefits of travel abroad.
Capstone Project - The Capstone Project takes inventory of the personal changes each student experiences
through the assimilation of thoughts, ideas, and languages of other cultures. You analyze the myriad of factors
that created and influenced personal change and then document those changes in a final capstone project,
such as a portfolio, reflection paper, photo journal, or other production. This component requires a public
presentation which will be organized in coordination with the Office of International Programs. Students find
very enjoyable to share their experiences. The final reflection project serves as tangible evidence of the value
of the International experience.