Certificate Co-ordinator: The Associate Vice-President, International has delegated coordination of the Global Experience Certificate to the Global Learning Team in the Student Success Office.
To encourage University of Waterloo undergraduate students to internationalize their degree and become globally engaged learners and citizens, the University offers them the opportunity to obtain a Global Experience Certificate (GEC).
A student in any term wishing to complete the certificate should visit the Global Experience Certificate website for further information and application instructions.
Required components
- two sequential language courses (other than the applicant's native language or a language in which they are fluent),
- one pre-approved global studies course. Students who wish to use a global studies course other than those specified may submit a request for approval from the GEC co-ordinator.
- an International Experience (IE) of a minimum of six consecutive weeks, such as an exchange, study abroad, co-op work term, internship (outside co-op), or volunteer position outside Canada. Some opportunities within Canada may be considered.
- a Cross-cultural Volunteer Experience (CCVE) consisting of a minimum of 20 hours during a single academic term.
- a reflection assignment after completion of the IE or CCVE. More information available on the GEC website.
Notes
- Language courses and global studies courses can be completed prior to submission of the GEC application.
- IE and CCVE listed on the GEC website can be completed prior to submission of the GEC application.
- IE and CCVE not listed on the GEC website must be approved in writing by GEC program staff in advance in order to be considered for the GEC.