Curricular Outcome: Demonstrated breadth of knowledge and cultural appreciation. College of Science students are expected to develop an understanding of at least one other culture in addition to their own through learning a language, taking culture and/or diversity courses, or participating in an approved Study Abroad experience.
This nine-credit core requirement may be met by satisfaction of one of the following options:
1. Three (3) courses in any one modern foreign language. American Sign Language and Biblical Hebrew may not be used to meet this requirement.
2. Two (2) courses in any one modern foreign language and an approved culture or diversity course.
3. Two (2) courses in any one foreign language and an approved short-term study abroad program (not less than 8 days) containing a minimum 3-credit course and significant immersion in the local culture.*
4. An approved study abroad experience.* Students will meet the intent of the Foreign Language and Culture requirement through completion of an approved study abroad program. Once approved, a non-credit waiver will be applied to a student’s MyPurduePlan audit. Students will then complete nine credits of elective coursework to meet their 120-credit hour degree requirement.
An approved program must satisfy the following criteria:
a. Must take place outside the United States and meet one of the following program requirements:
1. Program at least one semester (fall, spring) in duration
2. Summer program of at least seven and a half weeks duration
3. An approved College of Education Block Study Abroad Program
4. College of Science or departmentally approved program.
b. Consists of taking courses (minimum 3 credits) and/or working on a research project
c. Has significant immersion in the local culture and language independent of any US-based program in which the student may be participating.
* Approval Process: Students wishing to use an approved study abroad program to meet the Foreign Language and Culture requirement are required to complete the Experiential Learning Contract process.
5. International Student status. International students meet the intent of the Foreign Language and Culture requirement through their international experience at Purdue University. A non-credit waiver will be applied to a student’s MyPurduePlan audit. Students will then complete nine credits of elective coursework to meet their 120-credit hour degree requirement. See your academic advisor for guidelines and approval.
Curriculum Notice:
Courses which have been taken to meet the Culture requirement may not also be used to meet a student’s General Education or Great Issues requirement.
Study Abroad Scholarships
Study Abroad scholarship opportunities are available.