Brown University - Office of International Programs

So, how do I get started?

Choose a Topic

First, you need an idea, a topic, an orientation, a subject that you are truly interested in. To jumpstart this process, click here for an overview of Brown faculty who have demonstrated expertise in the country through teaching, research or a combination of both. This may help you as you consider approaching a faculty member about the possibility of developing a Global Independent Study Project (GLISP).

Planning: Start Early

It is best to begin planning a GLISP early in the semester. This is especially true when seeking a sponsor. Professors tend to plan their semesters well in advance of students, so communicate with the person you would like to be your faculty sponsor sooner rather than later.

Create a Project Proposal

Also, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with an OIP advisor to share your ideas for a proposal. The proposal must include a syllabus, a bibliography, a structured timeline for consistent periodic electronic communication with the faculty supervisor, and a basis on which a final evaluation will be made.

The project description will identify how, in the view of the student and faculty sponsor, the course will be significantly enhanced by tapping into local in-country resources that would clearly be unavailable in Providence. These might include local archives, museums and historical sites. They might extend to research organizations and recognized in-country experts in given disciplines. They might also involve hands-on participation in local cultural events (i.e., theater, arts, and music), interaction with local government, business and industry leaders, and access to non-governmental organizations.

Apply

Download the GLISP Application (PDF), which must be submitted to the Office of International Programs by April 24, 2009 for the upcoming fall term and November 6, 2009 for the upcoming spring term.

Key to CCC pre-approval will be the need for the student and faculty sponsor to provide a clear indication that the global independent study project can be successfully completed within the timeframe prescribed.

Application Deadlines for Academic Year 2009-2010

  • Fall Term: April 24, 2009
  • Spring Term: November 6, 2009

Academic Credit

Upon successfully completing the global independent study project, the student will receive one Brown credit. The remainder of the student's course load abroad will be completed by courses taken through the study abroad sponsor institution.

Additional Information

For further information, please consult with the Office of International Programs advising staff. To set up an appointment, feel free to stop by the J. Walter Wilson Building, Suite 420 or call 401-863-3555.

Brown’s Office of International Programs…Redefine Your World

Updated: April 3, 2009