Foreign Languages

Proficiency in English and at least one other language is essential for a successful career in international affairs and thus a requirement for graduation from the GHD program. Emphasis is placed on the development of oral communication skills as well as reading and writing ability. Language is taught not simply as an abstract entity, but as part of a broader intercultural context.

International students in GHD whose native language is not English may declare English as their second language and follow the procedures outlined for the proficiency test, or they may chose yet another language to use for their proficiency. Examinations are administered by the Department of English as a Foreign Language. Students cannot pass a language proficiency in his/her native language to meet the graduation requirement.

There are three stages to the completion of the language requirement:

1) Foreign Language Placement Test - the exam you will take to determine which course level is most appropriate for you at Georgetown

2) Foreign Language Courses

3) Foreign Language Proficiency Examination - the exam that you will take to satisfy your language proficiency requirement

Do not confuse the Placement Test with the Proficiency Exam.