Graduate Certificate in Incorporating International Perspectives in Education
Think Globally: Create an Inclusive Classroom
The Graduate Certificate in Incorporating International Perspectives in Education strengthens student understanding of internationalization as it relates to school systems and the development of curriculum in K-12 settings. Participants will learn how to incorporate global perspectives into curriculum, pedagogy, and school policy and practice.
Unique Global Perspective
One of the only graduate programs to focus on K-12 global education, our cross-departmental focus combines expertise in policy, practice, curriculum, and pedagogy as it relates to internationalization of education.
Collaborative Partnership
Gain hands-on learning opportunities through GW's partnership with D.C. Public Schools' Global Education initiatives.
Accommodating
Classes are offered in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate working professionals and for internship experiences. The two core courses are offered online.
The GW Advantage
GW's dual enrollment program shortens the time to degree and certificate completion. Earn this graduate certificate now, and continue on or return later to fold it into a Master’s in International Education.* You can transfer all 12 credit hours toward the master's degree.
*All requirements must be met and student accepted to the master's program
Degree Awarded:
Graduate Certificate in Incorporating International Perspectives in Education
Department:
Educational Leadership
Course Delivery:
Foggy Bottom Campus
Program Entry:
Spring, Summer, Fall
- Our Mission
Our mission is to develop constructive leaders with expertise in incorporating global perspectives into curriculum, pedagogy, and school policy and practice.
- Curriculum Requirements
This cross-departmental certificate is comprised of courses in International Education and Curriculum and Pedagogy.
The following requirements must be fulfilled: 12 credits, including 6 credits in required courses and 6 credits in elective courses.
Code Title Required CPED 6305 Foundations of Curriculum Theory EDUC 6615 Internationalizing U.S. Schools Electives - 6 credits from the following: CPED 6225 Introduction to International Curricula CPED 6557 Second Language Acquisition CPED 6608 Development and Diversity CPED 6627 Teaching Second Language Reading and Writing EDUC 6602 Regional Studies in International Education (Multiple concentration areas to choose from) EDUC 6640 Selected Topics in International Education (Citizen, Culture, Language and Nation-building in the Global Era) - Program Outcomes
Through this certificate, students will be able to:
- Recognize the rich theoretical perspectives on internationalization, global citizenship, and global competence education, while stepping out into the complexities of the real world through examining the policies and practices in specific local, regional, national, and global contexts;
- Acquire the tools, methods, and habits of analysis that enable them to be leaders of internationalization, as it relates to education policy, curriculum, and pedagogy.
Apply Now
GSEHD’s Office of Admissions invites you to apply for a spot in our program. Please review the following admission and financial information.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Review our step-by-step guide to applying to GSEHD >
To learn more about the program, admission process, and upcoming events, please connect with the GSEHD Admissions Team at askdel
gwu [dot] edu (askdel[at]gwu[dot]edu) or 202-994-9283.
| Apply Now | Register for Office Hour with Admissions Coach |
To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the online application form as well as the following required supporting documents. There is no application fee.
- Prerequisite: Bachelor's Degree
- Resume
- Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
- Statement of Purpose
- One Letter of Recommendation
*Additional application requirements may exist for international applicants.
Applications are now being accepted for Summer and Fall 2025. We encourage you to apply as early as possible.
Application Timeline Spring Summer Fall Priority Deadline Aug 1 Nov 1 Nov 1 Round 1 Deadline Sept 15 Dec 15 Dec 15 Round 2 Deadline Nov 1 Jan 15 Jan 15 Round 3 Deadline Dec 15 March 1 March 1 Round 4 Deadline N/A May 1 May 1 Round 5 Deadline N/A N/A June 15 Round 6 Deadline N/A N/A Aug 1 For more information or to inquire about the next admissions cycle, contact the GSEHD Admissions Team at askdel
gwu [dot] edu (askdel[at]gwu[dot]edu) or 202-994-9283.
Tuition & Financial Aid
We know embarking upon graduate school is a big decision - due in part to the costs of attending. At GW, we understand the time and thought behind making graduate school work for you. Please take a moment to learn more about the options and opportunities available to help fund your graduate education.
Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour, unless otherwise noted. Rates vary by program and location.
The tuition rate* for the Graduate Certificate in Incorporating International Perspectives in Education program is $1,960 per credit hour.
This program requires 12 credits.
Please note: Additional fees may apply for international students, late fees, etc. Current tuition rates may be updated during the year.
*Summer 2025, Fall 2025 and Spring 2026
As someone who completed the Master's in International Education and this certificate program, I found the combination invaluable! The MA provided a firm foundation in theory, critical thinking, publishing, and educational research while the certificate coursework was deeply integrated with educational practice. I also appreciated the range of classmates from those bound for international organizations and educators currently in the classroom endeavoring to bring missing global perspectives to their students. The MA and certificate proved the perfect combination for me as I graduated and moved into a position developing curriculum related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. I am so grateful for my time at GW!
HEIDI GIBSON ('18)
Acting Manager, Global Sustainability Series, Smithsonian Science Education Center
Graduate Certificate in Incorporating International Perspectives in Education
Career Outlook
Completion of this program can open up various career opportunities that involve working with diverse populations, promoting global awareness, and integrating international perspectives into educational settings.
- Career Opportunities
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International Education Coordinator: Develop and implement programs that promote global understanding and cultural exchange in educational institutions. You may facilitate study abroad programs, coordinate international student services, and foster partnerships with foreign educational institutions.
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Curriculum Developer: With your expertise in incorporating international perspectives, your role might involve designing educational materials and curricula that integrate global themes, multicultural perspectives, and cross-cultural understanding.
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Global Education Consultant: Advise educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies on international education policies and strategies. You may provide guidance on incorporating global perspectives into existing programs, developing intercultural competency training, or fostering international collaborations.
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International Student Advisor: Support and advise international students studying in educational institutions. You would assist them with immigration processes, provide cultural adjustment support, and offer guidance on academic and personal matters.
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Teacher/Educator: With a focus on international perspectives in education, you can pursue teaching positions in schools that emphasize global awareness and intercultural understanding. You can contribute to the development of inclusive and culturally responsive teaching practices.
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Education Researcher: Conduct studies on topics such as global education policies, intercultural communication in classrooms, or the impact of international experiences on student learning outcomes.
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Nonprofit or NGO Work: Many nonprofit organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) work in the field of education, particularly with an international focus. You could find opportunities to work with organizations that promote educational equity, cross-cultural understanding, or support education initiatives in developing countries.
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Intercultural Trainer: As an intercultural trainer, you can deliver workshops and training sessions to educators, students, or professionals in various fields. You would help them develop intercultural competence, cross-cultural communication skills, and an understanding of global perspectives.
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- Potential Employment Settings
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Our graduates pursue a wide range of leadership positions in:
- K-12 Schools and School Districts
- Think Tanks
- State and Federal Level Positions
- Non-Governmental or International Organizations
- Philanthropy Organizations
I started the International Education Master's program and Graduate Certificate in Fall 2019. Despite the pandemic and its associated challenges, I found the program to be incredibly rewarding. The faculty and staff were supportive while also challenging me to grow both professionally and personally. The certificate coursework provided practical skills in integrating global perspectives into pedagogy, curriculum, and policies, which have proved invaluable in my classroom as an educator and in my new role as a Global Studies Specialist. I am confident that the certificate was instrumental in getting me to this point in my career, and I highly recommend this program to anyone seeking to enhance their skills in the field of international education and to make a positive impact.
CAROLINE FAIRCLOTH ('21)
Global Studies Specialist for District of Columbia Public Schools
Graduate Certificate in Incorporating International Perspectives in Education
