ADDENDA TO THIS CATALOG

Source: https://academiccatalog.umd.edu/undergraduate/addenda/ Parent: https://academiccatalog.umd.edu/

The Undergraduate Catalog is published each academic year in June prior to the fall semester. The provisions of the Undergraduate Catalog are not to be regarded as a contract between the student and the University of Maryland. The university reserves the right to change its policies, rules, regulations, requirements for graduation, course offerings, tuition, fees, other charges, or any other contents of this catalog at any time.

When necessary, the university will track changes to the Undergraduate Catalog in this addenda section:

• For addenda related to policies, rules, regulations, tuition, fees and general information, see General Addenda
• For addenda related to curricula (i.e., descriptions, learning outcomes, and requirements for majors, minors, and certificates), see Curricular Addenda

Note: Updates to course offerings (e.g., course description changes), will be reflected in the following year's catalog and are not tracked in this addenda section.

This section contains addenda related to policies, rules, regulations, tuition, fees and general information. Each addendum contains an excerpt from the catalog as it was originally published as well as the change that was made. To view the full original text, see the catalog page referenced in the addendum.

Division of Administration

Under Division of Administration

• Effective October 1, 2025, the Interim Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer was appointed as Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer (published October 21, 2025).

Original

Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer:C. Robert Reuning (Interim)

Change

Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer:Charles R. Reuning

Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Under Office of Diversity and Inclusion

• Effective August 7, 2025, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion was renamed to Belonging & Community at UMD, and the office description was updated (published January 12, 2026).

​Original

Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Phone: 301-405-2838\ Fax: 301-314-9992\ DiverseTerps@umd.edu\ http://diversity.umd.edu

Vice President for Diversity & Inclusion: Georgina Dodge, Ph.D.

The Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) provides leadership and expertise for helping the university achieve its diversity, equity and inclusion goals. ODI houses several units that offer support to students, including ADA Compliance, Bias Incident Support Services (BISS), the LGBTQ+ Equity Center, the Nyumburu Cultural Center, the Office of Multi-ethnic Student Education (OMSE) and TerrapinSTRONG Education. ODI also coordinates with the Diversity Officers and other partners across campus. Students may reach out to ODI at DiverseTerps@umd.edu for support or to be connected to resources.

For more information about ODI, please visithttp://diversity.umd.edu.

Change

Belonging & Community at UMD

Phone: 301-405-2838\ Fax: 301-314-9992\ Belonging@umd.edu\ http://belonging.umd.edu

Vice President for Belonging: Georgina Dodge, Ph.D.

Belonging & Community at UMD works to cultivate well-being, belonging, and a vibrant learning and working community for the entire UMD community. Belonging offers community-building and learning opportunities, academic support, restorative practices for those who have experienced hate or bias and more. Belonging houses several units that offer support to students, including Bias Incident Support Services (BISS), the LGBTQ+ Equity Center, the Nyumburu Cultural Center, the Office of the ADA Coordinator, the Office of Multi-ethnic Student Education (OMSE) and TerrapinSTRONG Education, as well as coordinating with partners across campus. 

Visit belonging.umd.edu for more information, or contact belonging@umd.edu to be connected with resources.

University Administration and Deans

Under University Administration and Deans

1. Effective October 1, 2025, the Interim Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer was appointed as Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer (published October 21, 2025).
2. Effective September 1, 2025, a new Dean of the School of Public Policy was appointed (published November 6, 2025).

Original

(1) Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Charles Reuning (Interim)

(2)Dean of the School of Public Policy Steven Fetter, Ph.D. (Interim)

Change

(1) Vice President and Chief Administrative OfficerCharles R. Reuning

(2) Dean of the School of Public Policy Gustavo Flores-Macías, Ph.D.

This section contains a list of addenda related to undergraduate program changes. Each listing details changes that have been made to the program or indicates if the program is new.

• American Sign Language (ASL) Minor
• Artificial Intelligence in Architecture Minor
• Astronomy Major
• Atmospheric Chemistry Minor
• Cinema and Media Studies Major
• Climate Change Fluency Minor
• Communication Major
• Cyber-Physical Systems Engineering Major
• General Business Minor
• Global and Foreign Policy Major
• Global Culture and Thought Major
• Global Health Major
• Human Development Major
• Latin American and Caribbean Studies Minor
• LGBTQ Studies Minor
• Public Policy Major
• Public Service Interpreting and Translation Major
• School of Public Policy
• Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Education Minor
• Video Production and Documentary Filmmaking Minor
• Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Minor

American Sign Language (ASL) Minor

• Effective Spring 2026, the American Sign Language (ASL) Minor was established (published November 4, 2025).

Program Director:Michael Dunham

The American Sign Language (ASL) minor is designed for students interested in acquiring intermediate expressive and receptive ASL skills with in-depth understanding of Deaf Culture. The program plan includes four required classes and one elective (5-courses total). Emphasis on engaging with native signers from varied backgrounds is a foundation of the program. Throughout the sequence, experiential learning connects to the rich Deaf Culture in the DMV area known for one of the nation's largest Deaf communities. Participants develop communication skills while examining accessibility for greater advocacy and inclusivity. The core classes focus on sign language skills, Deaf Culture, and immersive community experiences. Electives include offerings in linguistics, world languages, education, and hearing and speech sciences.  The coursework, immersion opportunities, and capstone project will benefit students in all fields of study.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Develop competency of expressive and receptive American Sign Language (ASL) skills (e.g., visual gestures, facial expressions, fingerspelling) at the intermediary level.
2. Recognize intersectionality of identities in Deaf community through exposure to multiple dialects and signing styles.
3. Demonstrate understanding of Deaf culture, history, and community through responsive and respectful interactions.
4. Engage in advocacy and accessibility efforts aligned to goals of Deaf led organizations (e.g., accessible spaces).
5. Students Planning to Continue Studies Post Graduation: Following completion of the American Sign Language Proficiency Assessment achieve a score of 2.0 or higher (pragmatics and linguistics).

Requirements

Program plan includes four required classes and one elective (5-courses total).

Course List

Artificial Intelligence in Architecture Minor

• Effective Spring 2026, the Artificial Intelligence in Architecture Minor was established (published December 15, 2025).

Program Director: Hooman Koliji Ph.D.

The AI in Architecture minor explores how artificial intelligence is transforming building design as well the larger built environment. Students engage with methods of design that incorporate generative AI while developing an ethical foundation for integrating AI into design thinking. With an emphasis on the many ways that AI is being integrated into design workflows in the academy and in practice, the Minor prepares students to apply AI creatively, critically, and responsibly in advancing sustainable and human-centered architectural practice. The AI in Architecture minor is restricted to students in the ARCH BA and BS degree programs.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. AI and the Built Environment: Students will analyze and apply AI technologies to understand their increasing influence on the design, planning, and management of the built environment and the public realm.
2. AI, Ethics, and Societal Impact: Students will critically assess the ethical implications and societal consequences of deploying AI in architecture, including issues of equity, privacy, and social responsibility.
3. AI and Architectural Design Workflows: Students will integrate AI-driven tools and methods into architectural design processes to enhance efficiency, innovation, and design decision-making.
4. AI and Sustainability Strategies: Students will leverage AI to develop and evaluate sustainable design strategies, optimizing environmental performance and resource efficiency in architectural projects.
5. AI and Representational Techniques: Students will utilize AI-based techniques for architectural representation, including generative visualization, parametric modeling, and immersive media, to communicate complex design concepts effectively.

Requirements

Course List

Astronomy Major

Under Astronomy Major

1. Description: Effective Spring 2026, the program description was updated (published January 16, 2026).
2. Program Learning Outcomes: Effective Spring 2026, the program learning outcomes were updated (published January 16, 2026).
3. Requirements: Effective Spring 2026, the major now offers three specializations. (published January 16, 2026).

Original

(1) Description:The Astronomy Department offers courses leading to a Bachelor of Science in Astronomy as well as a series of courses of general interest to non-majors. Astronomy majors are given a strong undergraduate preparation in Astronomy, Mathematics, and Physics. The degree program is designed to prepare students for positions in government and industry laboratories or for graduate work in Astronomy or related fields. Courses offered by this department may be found under the following acronym: ASTR.

(2) Program Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify basic concepts from the many areas of astronomy, including motions in the sky, gravity, electromagnetic radiation, solar system, stars, and galaxies.
2. Develop mathematical skills, acquire physics knowledge, and practice applying these skills and knowledge in astrophysical situations.
3. Use astronomical telescopes/instruments and reduce astronomical data using modern computational methods.
4. Demonstrate advanced level knowledge in several different areas of astronomy.
5. Describe the current demographic composition of people working in the field of astronomy and how this affects its practice and presents barriers to broader inclusion.

(3) Requirements:See Astronomy Major

Change

(1) Description:Astronomy is the scientific study of the universe and its contents, including planets, stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects. Astronomers not only study what the universe is like right now, but they seek to understand the origins and evolution of the universe and the objects within it.  At the University of Maryland, astronomers use a variety of tools, including telescopes (both ground-based and space-based) for imaging and spectroscopy, and other specialized instruments to study celestial objects as well as creating theoretical and computational models to better understand those objects.

The Astronomy Department offers courses leading to a Bachelor of Science in three specializations: Astrophysics, Astronomy - Data Science, and Astronomy - Physical Science.  The department also offers a series of courses of general interest to non-majors.  Astronomy majors are given a strong undergraduate preparation in astronomy, mathematics, and physics.  Our class sizes are small and all courses are led by our enthusiastic faculty, developing a strong peer community. The degree program is designed to prepare students for positions in government, industry laboratories, science communication, science policy, science education, or for graduate work in Astronomy or related fields.

(2) Program Learning Outcomes:

1. Use and explain fundamental concepts from the many areas of astronomy, including motions in the sky, gravity, electromagnetic radiation, solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology.
2. Assess and solve unfamiliar problems in astrophysics using the knowledge and skills acquired in their astronomy, physics, and mathematics courses.
3. Use astronomical telescopes/instruments and reduce astronomical data using modern computational methods.
4. Summarize scientific literature and nuanced concepts, demonstrating in-depth knowledge in specific sub-fields corresponding to upper-level electives.
5. Describe the current demographic composition of people working in the field of astronomy and how this affects its practice and presents barriers to broader inclusion.

(3) Requirements:

Courses Required for All Specializations

Course List

Astrophysics Specialization

Course List

Astronomy - Data Science Specialization

Course List

Astronomy - Physical Science Specialization

Course List

• All of the above courses must be completed with a C- or better.
• Astronomy majors may not minor in Physics. Astronomy majors who choose the BS Astrophysics Specialization may double-major in one of the Physics specializations.
• Astronomy majors who choose the BS Astrophysics Specialization or the BS Astronomy - Physical Science Specialization may double-major in Computer Science.
• Once a student has begun the Astronomy major at the University of Maryland, no more than one course at the 300/400-level from a "study abroad" type program may be used in place of a ASTR-prefix course required for the major.

1 : For students with extensive experience with computer programming, this course can be replaced by PHYS474 (Computational Physics) or ASTR415 (Computational Astrophysics). If students complete ASTR415 for this requirement, it cannot be counted as an Advanced Astronomy Course requirement.

2 : MATH240 and MATH246 may be substituted for MATH243.

3 : ASTR399 and ASTR086 require special permission of the Astronomy advisor. ASTR086 may be used if a student has completed a suitable paid summer internship. In this case, the student must complete an additional 300/400-level Astronomy or Physics major course, since ASTR086 is 0 credits.

4 : Students are required to adhere to the prerequisites for all courses.

5 : ASTR498 for the Astronomy - Data Science Specialization and for the Astronomy - Physical Science Specialization must be approved by the Astronomy advisor. At least 3 credits must be completed over 1 or more semesters.

Atmospheric Chemistry Minor

Under Atmospheric Chemistry Minor

• Effective Spring 2026, course requirements were restructured to make the requirements less ambiguous, and a course that is no longer offered was removed (published January 12, 2026).

Original

See Atmospheric Chemistry Minor

Change

A total of 15 credits is required.  All courses presented for the minor must be passed with a grade of "C-" or better.

Course List

Cinema and Media Studies Major

Under Cinema and Media Studies Major (ENGL)* and Cinema and Media Studies Major (SLLC)***

1. Description: Effective Spring 2026, the program description was updated (published November 4, 2025).
2. Program Learning Outcomes: Effective Spring 2026, the program learning outcomes were updated (published November 4, 2025).
3. Program learning outcomes #1, #2, and #3 were changed.
4. Program learning outcomes #4 and #5 have been removed.
5. Five new program learning outcomes were added.
6. Requirements: Effective Spring 2026, the major has been restructured from a single program into two tracks: Critical Studies and Film Production and "Other Requirements for the Major" section has been updated (published November 4, 2025).

Original

(1) Description:Cinema and Media Studies is an interdisciplinary program in the humanities that enables students to explore an influential global art form in its aesthetic, cultural, economic, historical, and technological dimensions.  The major takes a critical, textual approach to film, emphasizing scholarly viewing, interpreting, and writing about moving images. It provides students with a solid background in theoretical, critical, and aesthetic aspects of the study of film, including the history of the medium and the analysis of national cinemas, always keeping in view questions of how new media have changed both cinema itself and the study of cinema.  The Cinema and Media Studies major brings together courses in cinema from varied nations, languages, and cultures and challenges students to understand the systems of transnational exchange that have characterized this medium from its inception.  Courses offered by this program may be found under the following acronyms: FILM (being phased out), CINE, ENGL, and SLLC.

(2) Program Learning Outcomes:

1. Students will be able to analyze and interpret film aesthetics and technical structures of editing, cinematography, sound, and mise-en-scene.
2. Students will be able to identify and analyze diverse genres and movements in the history of film.
3. Students will be able to situate films produced in various parts of the world in relation to larger historical and cultural developments.
4. Students will understand the various uses of the moving image in its relation to the political, economic, and social history of the world over the past century.
5. Students will be able to conduct research in Cinema and Media Studies and to write persuasively.

(3) Requirements:See Cinema and Media Studies Major (ENGL) and Cinema and Media Studies Major (SLLC).

Change

(1) Description:Cinema and Media Studies is an interdisciplinary program in the humanities that enables students to explore all types of moving-image media in their aesthetic, cultural, economic, historical, and technological dimensions. The major is committed to engaging students intellectually in the critical analysis of culture and cultural forms, while at the same time preparing them for the workforce by developing their skills and fluency in written, oral, and visual communication.  Students critically analyze cinema and moving-image media as a cultural experience that spans the entire globe, seeking to understand the ways that this experience might be different and similar across cultures, languages, socio-economic conditions, and historical periods. The program includes two tracks: the Critical Studies Track and the Film Production Track. In both tracks, students will acquire a solid background in theoretical, critical, and aesthetic aspects of the study of cinema and media, including the history of moving image media and the analysis of national and international cinemas, always keeping in view questions of how new media have changed both cinema itself and the study of cinema. The Critical Studies Track focuses on the critical analysis of genres, forms, and theories in the field of cinema and media, bringing together courses in cinema from varied nations, languages, and cultures, and challenges students to understand the systems of transnational exchange that have characterized this medium from its inception. The Film Production Track introduces students to filmmaking techniques and practices, enabling them to apply this analytical training to their personal and creative approach to filmmaking with the support of current technology and with an emphasis on team-building, and providing them with skills they will use in their professional environment as well as for artistic and/or social purposes. Courses offered by this program may be found under the following prefixes: CINE, ENGL, and SLLC.

(2) ProgramLearning Outcomes:

1. Broad Foundation: Students will demonstrate critical fluency and knowledge of the basic conceptual framework and lexicon of analysis--namely the concepts and terms used in describing and critically analyzing the four main areas of cinematic structure: editing; cinematography; mise-en-scène; and sound--by deploying this analytical lexicon in the audiovisual analysis of a scene. Students enrolled in the Film Production Track will be able to apply basic concepts and terminology in cinema and media analysis to their filmmaking practice.
2. Close Analysis: Students will produce analyses of media that integrate knowledge of how the material production, technologies, and cultural practices of diverse types of media shape meaning, by deploying close analysis of formal structures of moving-image media for the purposes of developing critical arguments about cinema and media. Students enrolled in the Film Production Track will use formal structures of moving-image media in their production of audiovisual material in various media.
3. Contextual analysis: Students will be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of cinema and media's relation to contexts that originate outside of the formal history of the development of cinematic aesthetics and technique. CMS defines "outside" as discourses, discussions, and histories surrounding those issues that have always engaged cinematic media: race; gender; ethnicity; sexuality; politics; social activism and change; violence and war; disabilities and social stigma; climate and the environment. Whether making fiction films or producing documentaries, students in the Film Production Track will be able to address, develop, and comment on issues and discourses that have always engaged cinematic media (such as race; gender; ethnicity; sexuality; politics; social activism and change; violence and war; disabilities and social stigma; climate and the environment) through their narrative and aesthetic choices.
4. Diversity: Students will be able to identify and analyze genres and movements in the history of film; identify formal and cultural components of films produced in various parts of the world; understand film as a transnational visual medium; and analyze the ways that cinema and media express cultural, social, and political diversity. Students in the Film Production Track will demonstrate how they are able to express, implement, and champion issues of diversity, equity, and justice in their own practice according to the specificities of their medium of choice.
5. Exposure: Students will demonstrate their breadth of exposure in watching and encountering a broad diversity of representations of people, places, and lived experience. Students will display facility in comparing cinematic representations of diverse experiences in the world-- and how cinema would enable the expression of different lived experience. Students in the Film Production Track will be able to work in a team and assume various responsibilities and positions on shooting sets throughout the semester regardless of their own professional aspirations, personal inclinations, and performing abilities. Students will learn to practice collaboration and fruitful exchanges on diverse cultural, aesthetic, and ethical perspectives.
6. Communication Skills: Students will demonstrate their ability to convey effective critical and analytical arguments in writing and through video presentation geared toward myriad target audiences (both academic and popular), as well as to communicate through oral presentation leadership in directing critical conversations in the classroom. Students in the Film Production Track will be able to improve their writing expression and narrative in the screenwriting course, and practice communication through the audiovisual medium in the filmmaking/sound/editing courses.
7. Technical Skills: Students in the Film Production Track will be able to use effectively basic skills in cinematography and screenwriting, update their knowledge as the technology evolves, and apply these skills in various contexts, for various purposes, and towards diverse objectives required by the professional field as well as their own creative engagement.
8. Creative Engagement: Students in the Film Production Track will demonstrate their use of media and film production as a source of innovation, challenge, and change in their social environment, and will be able to combine knowledge and skills acquired in their training with their personal motivations and commitment. Students will be able to produce individual work and participate in collective projects that demonstrate their new training in a concrete and effective manner.

(3) Requirements:

The Cinema and Media Studies major offers two tracks: the Critical Studies Track, and the Film Production Track. Both tracks begin with the same three-course Foundation Sequence, made up of a prerequisite course in Film Form (ENGL245/CINE245), a course in Media History (CINE301), and a Theory Foundation course (CINE302). The Foundation Sequence assures that students have the necessary analytical tools and historical background to interpret diverse global cinematic traditions. The Foundation Sequence is followed by a Core Sequence of 4 courses in Cinema and Media Criticism that offer all students the opportunity to explore genres, themes, and movements across different historical periods, and to develop their skills in analysis, writing, and research.

Students pursuing the Critical Studies Track select 2 additional courses in Cinema and Media Criticism from the Core Sequence, and 4 Cinema and Media Studies Electives, which may be taken outside the program in consultation with the Advisor.

Students pursuing the Film Production Track select 4 Film Production Required Courses: CINE376 (Screenwriting) CINE310 (Introduction to Filmmaking), formerly CINE319M, CINE415 (Advanced Filmmaking), CINE499 (Capstone Course), and two Cinema and Media Electives, which may be taken outside the program in consultation with the Advisor.

General Policies

• The Cinema and Media Studies major requires 39 credits (13 courses).
• A grade of "C-" or better is required in each of the courses making up the 39 credits of the major.
• Up to nine (9) credits may be taken at the 2xx-level.
• At least 6 of the 39 credits must be at the 4xx-level.

The Cinema and Media Studies major requires 39 credits, distributed as follows:

Core Program

Course List

Critical Studies Track (18 Credits)

Course List

Film Production Track (18 Credits)

Course List

1 : Fulfills Gen Ed req. in Humanities. Cinema and Media Studies majors must take ENGL245/CINE245 before they take other 3xx or 4xx-level Cinema and Media Studies courses. We recommend that it be taken no later than sophomore year.

2 : Students may take the two courses in any order.

3 : At least one course in this category must be taken at the 4xx-level. The courses must be selected either from the pre-approved CINE rubrics or from a list of film electives available from the Cinema and Media Studies Advisor. Please consult the full list of courses accepted for the major: https://sllc.umd.edu/fields/cinema-media/courses/.

4 : Up to two courses may be taken at the 200-level. Students select either two courses from pre- approved CINE rubrics and two courses in this area from other programs with the approval of the advisor; or four courses in consultation with the Cinema and Media Studies Advisor to explore a specific area of interest or an area related to their future academic or professional plans.

5 : Up to two courses may be taken at the 200-level . Students select select two CINE courses (CINE315, CINE317) or two courses from other programs in a similar area of studies with the approval of the Cinema and Media Studies Advisor.

Other Requirements for the Major

In both the Critical Studies Track and the Production Track, CINE245 is a prerequisite for many 3xx-level courses in the major.  Students are advised to complete that course early in their academic careers. Successful completion of CINE245 allows students to proceed to two courses required for both tracks: CINE301 and CINE302.

Students in both tracks are required to take 4 program core courses in the following four rubrics: National/International Cinemas; Film Theories; Genres/Authors/ Movements; Documentary, Animation, Experimental Cinema and Other Media.

Students in the Critical Studies Track are required to take 1 additional course in National/International Cinemas and 1 additional course in Genres/Auteurs/Movements, as well as 4 Cinema and Media Studies electives. Students in the Film Production Track are required to take 4 courses: CINE376 (screenwriting), CINE310 (introduction to filmmaking), CINE415 (advanced filmmaking) and CINE499 (capstone course), as well as 2 Cinema and Media electives.

Climate Change Fluency Minor

• Effective Spring 2026, the Climate Change Fluency Minor was established (published December 15, 2025).

Program Director: Alexandra Jones

This minor program is intended for non-science majors, but open to all majors other than atmospheric and oceanic science. It is designed to fill a critical need for climate literacy among professionals whose careers can benefit, such as journalists, policy makers, public health practitioners, investment and insurance professionals, etc. Students will be introduced to the science behind and evidence of both natural and anthropogenic climate factors and learn how to distinguish between climate science and climate policy as it relates to their intended career field.

It will provide the students with a general background in weather and climate as offered by the lower level courses and exposure to deeper exploration in the elective areas of the student’s choosing. This will include the ocean’s role in the climate system, climate change mitigation, visualizing climate data, climate attribution of extreme events, climate dynamics, paleoclimate, air quality, and more.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Clearly distinguish between and describe to a non-scientific audience the natural greenhouse effect, the mechanism and structure of anthropogenic climate change, climate feedback mechanisms, multidecadal climate variability, natural sources of climate change in earth's history, and the evidence that supports each.
2. Evaluate how the facts of climate change apply to your discipline and identify climate change policy recommendations and opinions and evaluate their potential impact on your discipline.
3. Discuss the complexity involved in climate attribution of extreme events such as fires, droughts, floods, and severe storms.
4. Discuss the role of a variety of climate subtopics (based on electives) in the climate system and their relation to your career field, ocean, biogeochemical, polar, mitigation, climate data analysis, internal variability, extreme event attribution, etc.

Requirements

Course List

Communication Major

Under Communication Major

• Admission to the Major: Effective Fall 2025, the Communication major is no longer classified as a Limited Enrollment Program (LEP). As such, the Admission to the Major section is no longer applicable. (Published July 25, 2025)

Original

Admission to the Major

First-time Freshman

All first-time freshmen who designate Communication as a major prior to the end of the final exam period of their first semester will be admitted directly to the program. They must sign a Memorandum of Understanding that states that they understand that by the semester in which they attain 45 University of Maryland credits (excluding AP), they must meet the following gateway requirements:

1. Complete one of the following courses with a grade of "C-" or better: BMGT230, CCJS200, EDMS451, PSYC200, SOCY201, STAT100, or equivalent.
2. Complete COMM107, COMM200, or COMM230 with a grade of "C-" or better
3. Complete COMM250 with a grade of "C-" or better and
4. A GPA of 2.0 or better

Students may repeat only one of the gateway requirements and that requirement may be repeated only once in their attempt to meet the requirements. Students who fail to meet the gateway requirements by the semester in which they attain 45 credits will be dismissed from the program and cannot reapply.

Transfer Students

Internal and external transfer students who meet the gateway requirements specified above must also have a cumulative GPA of 2.70 in all college-level coursework to apply to the program.

Appeals

All students may appeal admission decisions. Students directly admitted as freshmen, who are dismissed because of failure to meet gateway requirements or a failure to be in good academic standing at 45 credits, may appeal directly to the undergraduate director in the Department of Communication. All other students who are denied admission may appeal to the university's Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

Change

Admission to the Major:This section is no longer applicable.

Cyber-Physical Systems Engineering Major

UnderCyber-Physical Systems Engineering MajorandCyber-Physical Systems Engineering Major at Shady Grove

• Effective Spring 2026, ENEB352 became an elective option rather than a required course and was added as an elective option to all four tracks (published January 12, 2026).

Original

See Cyber-Physical Systems Engineering Major and Cyber-Physical Systems Engineering Major at Shady Grove

Change

First & Second Year

Prior to being admitted to the Cyber-Physical Systems Engineering major, students should have completed the Engineering LEP gateway courses, basic math/science courses, lower-level General Education requirements, and at least 60 credits.

Course List

1 : Any of the following programming courses or their equivalents will be accepted:

- [ENEE140](https://academiccatalog.umd.edu/search/?P=ENEE140 "ENEE140")
- [CMSC131](https://academiccatalog.umd.edu/search/?P=CMSC131 "CMSC131")
- [CMSC106](https://academiccatalog.umd.edu/search/?P=CMSC106 "CMSC106")
- Any introductory course in C, C++, Java, or Python (student must submit the course to ECE Department for Evaluation)

Junior & Senior Year at Shady Grove

Tracks

Hardware Track

Course List

Computational Track

Course List

Security Track

Course List

General Track

The General Track offers a general focus of course content with classes from each of the three tracks.  While there are no specific required or elective courses for this track, the General Track requires 15 credits, which is the same as the other three tracks.  Consult with an advisor for details.

General Business Minor

Under General Business Minor

1. Description:Effective Spring 2026, the program description was updated (published January 12, 2026).
2. Requirements:Effective Spring 2026, BMGT301 is replaced with BMIN305. In addition, the text in footnote 1 was adjusted to further clarify the BMGT220 and BMGT221 substitution for BMIN210 (published January 12, 2026).

Original

1. Description:The General Business minor provides the business savvy to complement the depth of knowledge acquired in the students' chosen area of major, so they excel in their careers after graduation. Note: The General Business minor is not open to declared Business majors.
2. Requirements:See General Business Minor

Change

1. Description:The General Business minor provides the business savvy to complement the depth of knowledge acquired in the students' chosen area of major, so they excel in their careers after graduation. Note: The General Business minor is not open to declared Business majors.  In addition, BMIN courses for the General Business minor cannot be applied to a Robert H. Smith School of Business degree.
2. Requirements:

Course List

 | Course | Title | Credits |

| --- | --- | --- | | Core (3 credits each, 4 courses/12 credits required) | | | | BMIN210 | Foundations of Accounting for Non Business Majors 1 | 3 | | BMIN345 | Foundations of Financial Management for Non Business Majors (BMGT340 can substitute) 2 | 3 | | BMIN355 | Foundations of Marketing for Non Business Majors (BMGT350 can substitute) | 3 | | BMIN395 | Principles of Management for Non Business Majors (BMGT364 can substitute ) | 3 | | Electives (3 credits each, 1 course required) | | 3 | | BMIN375 | Supply Chain Management for Non Business Majors (BMGT372 can satisfy) | | | BMGT301 | Introduction to Information Systems | | | Total Credits | | 15 |

1 : BMGT220 and BMGT221 will meet the BMIN210 requirement.

2 : Prerequisite of BMIN210 required

Global and Foreign Policy Major

• Effective Spring 2026, the Global and Foreign Policy Major was established (published October 21, 2025).

Program Director: Catherine Z. Worsnop, Ph.D.

The Global and Foreign Policy major is an interdisciplinary major collaboratively offered by the School of Public Policy, the School of Languages, Literatures, and Culture, the Department of History, and the Department of Agricultural and Resources Economics. Students enrolled in the major will leverage insights from international policy, history, language and cultural studies, and economics to gain an understanding of the forces shaping global and foreign policy challenges, and options for advancing solutions to such challenges. This interdisciplinary approach is anchored by the belief that diversity in outlook, in research expertise, in background, and beyond will empower students to tackle the grand global challenges of today and tomorrow. To these ends, the major offers (1) foundational classes that equip students with the frameworks, tools, and techniques needed to unpack global and foreign policy debates and solutions, alongside (2) targeted classes enabling students to concentrate in one of three substantive areas (Security, Conflict, Diplomacy; Human Security and Migration; Development and Sustainability). Classroom experience is supplemented by an array of experiential learning opportunities.  Ultimately, the major will prepare students for careers in government, the private sector (especially businesses with a strong global focus), non-profits, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international institutions, think tanks, and beyond while connecting students to a robust network of partners eager to help them prepare for a career in the global and foreign policy space.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Analyze the complexity and range of historical and contemporary global and foreign policy and policymaking challenges.
2. Explain how foreign and global policymaking institutions, processes, and structures shape policy solutions and outcomes.
3. Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of one or more global and foreign policy challenges and solutions, by applying insights and frameworks from different disciplines while engaging relevant policymaking processes.
4. Interrogate how identities - including national, caste, ethnic, gender, racial, religious, socio-economic, political, and beyond - and their intersections shape global and foreign policy challenges and solutions.
5. Examine the role of values, ethics, justice, access, and the structural and systemic sources of (in)equality in and across global and foreign policy domains.
6. Utilize appropriate research tools, analysis, writing, and presentation skills to assess global and foreign policy challenges, and apply these techniques to an experiential learning endeavor to better understand the dynamics of policymaking.
7. Demonstrate a minimum of basic proficiency in a second world language.

Requirements

Students must earn a minimum grade of C- in all major courses. At least 15 credits must be taken at the 300-level or higher for the major.

Course List

1 : Benchmark requirement: Must be completed within the first 2 semesters in the major.

2 : Note on Languages: Students will inevitably enter the major with varying familiarity with a second world language.  Given this, the program seeks to ensure that students demonstrate a minimum of a basic proficiency in a second world language. To meet the language requirement, students will take the language placement exam for a chosen language offered by SLLC.  If students place into an elementary or intermediate level of a language, students will take both the appropriate course and the following course in the targeted language sequence (e.g., Spanish 103, followed by Spanish 203).  If students test at a more advanced level, students will speak with an SLLC language advisor to determine an appropriate language course in the sequence (including SLLC electives), or can opt to start a new language; students with AP or IB credit may also receive credit for up to one language course. Finally, students demonstrating native or near-native proficiency may test out of the language requirement and receive credit consistent with existing SLLC/ARHU guidelines (see https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Lk076FdbP8aXNku8kzuKZkkMnQeEZGkI/view).  Please note that some languages may require more than 3 credits per course per semester so the minimum number of credits may exceed 6 for some languages.

3 : Statistical analysis course options: BMGT230 (AR), CCJS200 (AR), EDMS451 (AR), PSYC200 (AR), SOCY201(AR), or STAT100 (MA & AR).  Students may also petition to receive credit for a statistics or research methods course offered by another unit.

4 : Benchmark Requirement: Students must declare a track and take the associated anchor course. The anchor course must be completed within the first six semesters in the major.

Tracks

Students will select a track by taking (a) the required anchor course for a given track, and (b) 2 electives linked to that track. A list of available tracks and associated electives can be found here: [website]. An additional 2 electives can be taken within the selected track and/or from among other tracks (including anchor courses). Note that courses taken to meet the language requirement cannot be used as elective credit.

Security, Conflict, and Diplomacy

Course List

Human Security and Migration

Course List

Development and Sustainability

Course List

Global Culture and Thought Major

• Effective Fall 2025, the Global Culture and Thought Major was established (published November 4, 2025).

Program Director:Hester Baer, Ph.D.

Global Cultures is an interdisciplinary program in the humanities that fosters multilingual study of the cultures of the globalized world through classroom and experiential learning. The major enables students to explore and interpret the histories, institutions, values, practices, varieties, and intersections of global cultures as they are produced and received across national and regional boundaries. Combining a strong focus on race, equity, and justice with an emphasis on cultural theory, the major provides students with a solid background in the terminology and interpretive methods of humanities disciplines and cultivates the critical skills necessary to understand and analyze global movements and literary, cultural, and media texts, as well as an intermediate-range level of proficiency in at least one language other than English. Courses offered by this program may be found under the prefixes GLBC, SLLC, ARAB, CHIN, CINE, FREN, GERS, HEBR, ITAL, JAPN, KORA, PERS, PORT, RUSS, and SPAN.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the histories, institutions, values, practices, varieties, and intersections of global cultures as they are produced and received across national and regional boundaries.
2. Use the terminology and interpretive methods of humanities disciplines, including cultural theory, to interpret and analyze global movements and literary, cultural, and media texts.
3. Critically analyze issues of power related to gender, sexuality, class, race/ethnicity, and/or mental and physical disability with attention to differences across time, geography, and culture and with critical awareness of one’s own worldview, values, and biases.
4. Critically interpret literary, cultural, and media texts reflecting a diversity of perspectives in a variety of genres with specific attention to their social, historical, and linguistic contexts, and formulate original arguments with reference to appropriate evidence and secondary sources.
5. Communicate effectively in written, oral, and digital forms, with the academic community and with the broader public.
6. Demonstrate an appropriate level of proficiency in at least one language other than English.

Requirements

Course List

1 : Language study may be undertaken in courses offered under the following prefixes: ARAB, CHIN, FREN, GERS, HEBR,  ITAL, JAPN, KORA, PERS, PORT, RUSS, SPAN.

2 : Students will determine which option(s) to pursue in consultation with the program advisor.

3 : Electives are to be selected from the existing course offerings of one, or a maximum of two, SLLC programs offered under the following prefixes: ARAB, CHIN, CINE, FREN, GERS, HEBR, ITAL, JAPN, KORA, PERS, PORT, RUSS, and SPAN.

4 : May substitute any of the SLLC Upper-Division Elective courses and will be strongly encouraged.

The major consists of 39 credits. Besides taking the two core courses GLBC200 and GLBC360, students majoring in Global Cultures are required to take 12 credits in Language Study, 6 credits in Experiential Learning, and 15 credits in Upper-Division Electives. The same course cannot be counted towards different requirements of the program (e.g., students are not allowed to overlap credits for the Experiential Learning and Upper-Division Electives categories); however, the same course can count towards the requirements of two different programs (e.g., for a student double majoring in Global Cultures and Spanish, the same courses in can be counted for credits in both programs). One- credit "microcourses" may be used to offer supplemental language instruction (tied to a course held in English); as standalone short or block-format courses related to current events or relevant topics; as practicums focused on skills and professionalization; and as service-learning opportunities, among other possibilities. Students will be allowed to take microcourses for credit toward the Experiential Learning and Upper-Division Elective requirements.

Global Health Major

Under Global Health Major

1. Description: Effective Spring 2026, the program description was updated (published November 4, 2025).
2. Program Learning Outcomes: Effective Spring 2026, program learning outcomes #1–8 were updated, and #9–22 were removed (published November 4, 2025).
3. Requirements: Effective Spring 2026, the Global Health Experiential Learning courses and Global Health Options courses were updated (published November 4, 2025).

Original

(1) Description:The Global Health major offers rigorous scholarly and applied experiences designed to embolden future leaders to achieve the level of critical thinking, analysis, and application essential to improve worldwide social, environmental, and health outcomes. Specifically, students apply structurally competent, collaborative, multidisciplinary perspectives to the understanding, assessment, and intervention of sustainable strategies necessary to effectively address current and future global health issues within local, national, and global arenas. The Global Health major prepares students for multiple career paths from biomedical to public policy, including scientific and applied research, medicine, and allied health and social service professions in the public, private, and non-profit employment sectors throughout the state, nation, and world.

(2) Program Learning Outcomes:

1. Understand the concepts, theoretical frameworks, and analytical methodologies underlying successful and sustainable global health strategies.
2. Understand the scientific bases for infectious disease.
3. Demonstrate beginning and/or intermediate ability in a second language.
4. Demonstrate competence in the development, recognition, and utilization of big data within global health applications.
5. Understand the social and cultural complexities inherent in global collaborations.
6. Demonstrate the ability to establish respectful, trusting relationships with people, communities, and institutions around the globe.
7. Understand globalization and its social and political foundations, with particular emphasis on effects on health and healthcare among populations in distinct locations.
8. Apply a multidisciplinary perspective to the appreciation, understanding, assessment, intervention, and sustainability of strategies designed to effectively address global health issues.
9. Utilize ethical, structurally competent, collaborative approaches to understanding, researching and contributing to community-supported interventions relevant to global health challenges.
10. Critically analyze the qualitative and quantitative impacts of racism on the prevention, assessment, and treatment of illness around the world.
11. Develop macro and micro strategies to combat racism and proactively promote health equity.
12. Reflect upon what it means to be anti-racist.
13. Demonstrate clear, incisive, verbal and written communication skills within the context of specific cultures, languages, and sociopolitical systems.
14. Demonstrate proficiency in a variety of electronic and digital media.
15. Recognize and critically evaluate current theories and practices within the discipline of global health.
16. Utilize peer-reviewed literature and apply it to research as well as to formulating effective program planning and evaluation strategies.
17. Apply introductory statistical methodology and big data approaches to solve global health problems.
18. Create and implement successful, novel approaches to global health issues based upon critical evaluations of historical underpinnings and previous challenges.
19. Reflect upon and integrate required academic experiential learning into a deeper understanding of professional and personal responsibility.
20. Understand the interconnected network and the major initiatives and priorities of global health organizations at the local, national and world levels.
21. Recognize the various roles, responsibilities, and opportunities available throughout the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
22. Implement a strategy to enhance long-term career development.

(3) Requirements:See Global Health Major

Change

(1) Description:

In the interdisciplinary Global Health major, students explore health challenges through the lens of environmental, biological, geopolitical, socioeconomic, and cultural factors. Combining classroom learning with real-life opportunities through research, internships, and field experiences, students develop cross-cultural and practical skills and competencies to address complex concerns in an evolving global health landscape. Course themes include epidemiology, policy, management, data analysis, world languages, as well as interpersonal and digital communication.

Students in the Global Health major are advised in the School of Public Health’s Department of Global, Environmental, and Occupational Health (GEOH). Courses are taught by faculty across the university and in partnership with six UMD colleges and schools (Agriculture and Natural Resources; Arts and Humanities; Behavioral and Social Sciences; Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences; Information; and Public Health).

The Global Health major prepares students for multiple career paths from biomedical to public policy, including scientific and applied research, public health, law, allied health and social service professions in the public, private, and non-profit employment sectors throughout the state, nation, and world.

(2) Program Learning Outcomes:

1. Understand the underlying science of human health and disease including opportunities for promoting and protecting health across the lifespan.
2. Analyze historical foundations interactions between global health, colonialism, economic development, biological sciences, social determinants of health, power dynamics, technology innovations, One Health, and historical contexts that trace its evolution of health practice and initiatives shape global health approaches.
3. Apply research and epidemiology to analyze global health challenges, and develop comprehensive evidence-based interventions and strategies.
4. Employ data collection, statistical analysis, technology, and interpretation of health indicators across diverse contexts to map and understand global health disparities.
5. Assess intersectional factors and diverse health needs of populations across different cultural, social, biological, economic, political, environmental, digital, and geographical contexts influencing global health outcomes.
6. Develop culturally and context-appropriate, community-based global health intervention strategies and policies.
7. Demonstrate skills in scientific writing, oral presentation, cross-cultural communication, narratives and media resources that promote health awareness and behavioral change.
8. Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration to create, design, implement, and disseminate diverse cultural and linguistic health information and communication strategies.

(3) Requirements:

Students will need to have math eligibility of MATH120 or higher to complete the Global Health Supporting Courses.

Course List

1 : Students take at least 2 courses in the same language. See Global Health major website for world language guidance, approved course list and exceptions, https://sph.umd.edu/gbhl-bs.

2 : Students considering allied health professions may substitute BSCI223 for BSCI213, but may not receive credit for both courses.

3 : If a student completes both GVPT200 and GVPT282, one will apply towards GBHL Supporting and the other towards GBHL Option.

4 : Students complete two different experiential learning courses (at least 3 credits each) with prior approval of the Global Health program. These may include an internship, research, independent study, global classroom, field experience, or study abroad. Additional guidance and examples of Global Health Experiential Learning courses may be found at sph.umd.edu/gbhl-bs

5 : Students select from a menu of approved 3 credit Global Health Options courses. At least 2 courses (6 credits) must be at the 300 or 400 level. A single course cannot satisfy both an Option and Experiential Learning requirement. See Global Health major website for approved Options course list: https://sph.umd.edu/gbhl-bs.

Human Development Major

Under Human Development Major

• Effective Spring 2026, EDHD 489 and EDHD 426 were removed, and EDHD 488 and EDHD 251 were added (published January 12, 2026).

Original

See Human Development Major

Change

Course List

1 : Any core course listed above for which core course credit was not given may serve as an elective. This set of courses should be chosen to align with the student’s individual program goals and could include extradepartmental course offerings.

2 : Students may, at the invitation of individual faculty, substitute EDHD489 OR EDHD498, for three of the required 12 credit elective component. For situations in which students wish to pursue a double major, Family Science Majors may substitute FMSC302 for EDHD306, and Psychology Majors may substitute PSYC300 for EDHD306 and PSYC200 for EDMS451 in the Human Development major

3 : Students may elect to substitute six credits of upper (400 level) electives in place of the internship experience, although internship experience is strongly recommended.

4 : Students may complete EDHD398 in one semester or over two semesters. Students may also take EDHD398 for three credits and another 400-level elective for three credits in order to satisfy this requirement.

Psychology Electives

Course List

Sociology Electives

Course List

Family Science Electives

Course List

Other Possible Electives

Electives approved by program advisor from the following departments to satisfy individual students' program goals:

• AAAS – African American and Africana Studies
• AAST - Asian American Studies
• AMST – American Studies
• ANTH - Anthropology
• BMGT – Business and Management
• CCJS – Criminology and Criminal Justice
• ECON - Economics
• GVPT – Government and Politics
• HESP – Hearing and Speech Sciences
• HLTH - Health LING - Linguistics
• RELS – Religious Studies
• SLLC – School of Languages Literatures and Cultures
• SPHL – Public Health
• STAT – Statistics and Probability
• WGSS – Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Latin American and Caribbean Studies Minor

Under Latin American and Caribbean Studies Minor

1. Program Learning Outcomes:Effective Spring 2026, learning outcomes were added (published January 12, 2026).
2. Requirements:Effective Spring 2026, the range of acceptable courses was expanded (published January 12, 2026).

Original

(1) Program Learning Outcomes: No learning outcomes are listed

(2) Requirements:See Latin American and Caribbean Studies Minor

Change

(1) Program Learning Outcomes:

1. Students will develop an understanding of the diverse histories, cultures, and societies of Latin America and the Caribbean. Students will understand how these diverse experiences are shaped by political, economic, geographic, ethnic, racial, and linguistic variations and commonalities within the region. The legacies of colonialism and the hemispheric influence of the United States are a primary point of reference for students’ knowledge of the region. Also relevant are the histories of Latin American and Caribbean nation-states in relation to varying degrees of independence from world powers, including those within the region. These legacies, influence, and history include structural racism and sexism, for example the enslavement of people of African and Indigenous descent, persistent colorism, and stubborn patriarchal norms. They also include successful efforts to combat oppressive structures, including the liberation of Haiti from France, instances of Indigenous autonomy, and a burgeoning, recent, and region-wide feminist movement. Students will learn to understand these and other aspects of the region through a variety of sources from diverse origins, media, and genres, including texts in different languages, music, literature, film, and academic scholarship from various disciplines.
2. Students will learn how to investigate and analyze a specific topic related to Latin America and the Caribbean and communicate clearly and persuasively their arguments, conclusions, and the significance of their research. This communication will take written and oral form, for example short and extensive research papers and in-class presentations. Ideally, it will also involve collaborative projects.
3. Students will speak proficiently one of the region’s many languages, not including English. Examples include but are not limited to Spanish, Portuguese, Quechua, Haitian Creole, and French.
4. Students will understand different aspects of the field of Latin American and Caribbean Studies, including the structural inequalities of knowledge production that have significantly shaped the field. Students’ knowledge of the field will also include important primary and secondary sources, academic terminology related to different disciplines, and the most effective means of conducting research, such as relevant journals, reference works, and databases produced and located in Latin America and the Caribbean and the United States.

(2) Requirements:

The undergraduate minor in Latin American and Caribbean Studies will be awarded to students who have completed 15 credits with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better in the following areas:

Course List

1 : LACS369 may be substituted with an approved 3-credit study abroad course with permission of department.

2 : Elective courses will contain at least 75% Latin American-related content and will be from two different departments.

Additional Requirement

In addition to English, students must demonstrate competence in one of the other languages of the Americas: indigenous languages, a creolized language such as Haitian Creole, colonial languages -Spanish, Portuguese, French - or other language considered by the program administration to be relevant to study of Latin America and the Caribbean. Other languages may be used to fulfill this goal with the permission of the LACS undergraduate advisor. Competency may be proven with a grade of "C+" or better in an intermediate-level course or higher. Native speakers of a language of Latin America and the Caribbean, or students with extensive experience in these languages, should consult with the Latin American Studies advisor to demonstrate competence through a placement exam.

LGBTQ Studies Minor

Under LGBTQ Studies Minor

1. Description:Effective Spring 2026, the term “LGBT people” has been changed to “LGBTQ people” (published November 4, 2025).
2. Requirements:Effective Spring 2026, the required core curriculum course LGBT 386 has been removed, and LGBT 310 has been added (published November 4, 2025).

Original

(1) Description:The LGBTQ minor in the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies is a 15 credit program which provides students an opportunity for interdisciplinary study of the lives, experiences, identities, and representations of LGBT people. This course of study provides solid grounding in the major concepts and methods that define studies of sex, gender, and gender identity today. Any student in good standing in the university may enroll in the LGBTQ Studies minor.  In consultation with the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies academic advisor, students will design a minor program that complements their major field of study.

(2) Requirements:See LGBTQ Studies Minor.

Change

(1) Description:The LGBTQ minor in the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies is a 15 credit program which provides students an opportunity for interdisciplinary study of the lives, experiences, identities, and representations of LGBTQ people. This course of study provides solid grounding in the major concepts and methods that define studies of sex, gender, and gender identity today. Any student in good standing in the university may enroll in the LGBTQ Studies minor.  In consultation with the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies academic advisor, students will design a minor program that complements their major field of study.

(2) Requirements

Course List

1 : Elective Courses: Courses with an LGBT Prefix are automatically approved as electives. 3 of the 6 elective credits must be upper level.

Other Program Requirements:

• No course earned with a grade below "C-" will count toward the minor in LGBTQ Studies.
• An overall GPA of 2.0 in the minor is required for graduation.
• Students may use a maximum of six credits (or two courses) to satisfy the requirements of both their major and the minor in LGBTQ Studies. However, courses taken to complete the minor in LGBTQ Studies may not be used to satisfy the requirements of another minor.
• No more than six of the required credits (or two courses) may be taken at an institution other than the University of Maryland, College Park. However, at least six 3xx or 4xx-level credits applied to the minor must be taken at this university.

Public Policy Major

Under Public Policy Major

• Effective Spring 2026, PLCY306 was replaced with a 200-level research methods course (published January 12, 2026).

Original

See Public Policy Major

Change

C- or better is required in all major courses and the cumulative average of these courses must be a 2.0.

Course List

1 : Must be completed by the end of two semesters into the major

2 : Must be completed by the end of four semesters into the major

3 : Taken after 90 credits

Public Service Interpreting and Translation Major

• Effective Fall 2025, the Public Service Interpreting and Translation Major was established (published October 21, 2025).

Program Director:Leah Waks, Ph.D.

The B.A. in Public Service Interpreting and Translation (PSIT) provides students with a fundamental understanding of how to communicate messages between speakers of one language and speakers of a different language through the spoken (interpreting) and written word (translation) in community-based settings. Students must be able to speak and write in English and one other language that is featured in the PSIT program (e.g., Spanish). At present, the PSIT program features one language combination with a focus on Spanish and English interpreting and translation with the option of adding other languages in the future. As a joint major with 45 credits, PSIT features coursework in the history, theory, and practice of Communication, Languages, and Interpreting and Translation with in-depth study of intercultural communication. Students will deepen their language and vocabulary skills in speaking and writing in their working languages (English and Spanish).

Students will gain training in both interpreting and translation and can specialize in one or the other in their senior year. Students can also specialize in different communication contexts by taking coursework in legal, health, and/or organizational communication.

Graduates of the PSIT program will fulfill a diversity of community needs in business, education, health, and law. Students will gain real-world experience through their practicum credits as they prepare for their multicultural careers in interpreting and translation. As bilingual speakers, for example, interpreters and translators will ensure patients understand their medical needs, clients gain proper legal advice, parents learn of children’s educational needs, drivers take driving tests, survivors of violence receive proper protections, refugees obtain housing and food, victims of natural disasters are kept safe, and consumers access business services across the DMV’s diverse communities.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Show advanced competence in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding English in order to communicate in culturally sensitive ways.
2. Show advanced competence in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding at least one other language spoken in the United States in order to communicate in culturally sensitive ways.
3. Translate and interpret written and verbal messages from one language to another for public service agencies (e.g., medical, education, community services, and law enforcement).
4. Apply major theories and concepts that could facilitate the effective use of intercultural communication competence skills within diverse cultural and professional communities.
5. Demonstrate specialized knowledge in health, education, law, and/or institutional operations and terminologies.

Requirements

Course List

School of Public Policy

Under School of Public Policy

• Effective September 1, 2025, a new Dean of the School of Public Policy was appointed (published November 6, 2025).

Original

Dean: Robert Orr, Ph.D.

Change

Dean: Gustavo Flores-Macías, Ph.D.

Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Education Minor

Under Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Education Minor

1. Program Name: Effective Spring 2026, the program was renamed to Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Dual Language Education Minor (published December 15, 2025).
2. Description:Effective Spring 2026, the program description was updated (published December 15, 2025).
3. Requirements:Effective Spring 2026, a dual language education track has been added. (published December 15, 2025).

Original

(1) Program Name:Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Education Minor

(2) Description: The minor in TESOL Education provides opportunities for undergraduate subject area majors to complete a sequence of courses that helps them prepare for careers as teachers of English as a second language in US schools and/or prepare them for roles as teachers of English as a foreign language in international settings.   If the undergraduate pursuing the minor desires to enter the ESOL teacher preparation track, the candidate may apply for the Five Year Integrated Program option or the one year MCERT Program option; in either case, satisfactorily completed courses in the minor that meet program requirements will be applied to the certification program requirements. Individuals should consult with an advisor in Student Services to identify the most appropriate option leading to teacher certification and to review the specific admission requirements associated with that program.

The minor in TESOL Education includes coursework from Curriculum and Instruction. The curriculum provides a foundation in second language learning and pedagogy, cross-cultural issues and understanding, and curricular and pedagogical issues which support biliteracy development across contexts. A number of the courses include field components that provide candidates with direct experience in working with multilingual learners. The minor incorporates coursework required for TESOL certification from the Maryland State Department of Education.

(3) Requirements:See Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Education Minor

Change

(1) Program Name:Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Dual Language Education Minor

(2) Description:The minor in TESOL and Dual Language Education provides opportunities for 1) undergraduate subject area majors to complete a sequence of courses that helps them prepare for careers as teachers of English as a second language in US schools and/or prepare them for roles as teachers of English as a foreign language in international settings (TESOL Track), and 2) undergraduate subject area majors, such as students majoring in elementary education and/or in language studies (e.g., Chinese, French, Spanish), to complete a sequence of courses that helps them prepare for careers as Dual Language teachers in US schools.

If the undergraduate pursuing the minor desires to enter the ESOL or World Languages teacher preparation track, the candidate may apply for the Five Year Integrated Program option or the one year MCERT Program option; in either case, satisfactorily completed courses in the minor that meet program requirements will be applied to the licensure program requirements. Individuals should consult with an advisor in Student Services to identify the most appropriate option leading to teacher certification and to review the specific admission requirements associated with that program.

The minor in TESOL and Dual Language Education includes coursework from Curriculum and Instruction. The curriculum provides a foundation in second language learning and pedagogy, cross-cultural issues and understanding, and curricular and pedagogical issues which support biliteracy development across contexts.

A number of the courses include field components that provide candidates with direct experience in working with multilingual learners. The minor incorporates coursework required for TESOL certification from the Maryland State Department of Education.

(3) Requirements:

Courses required for the minor are:

Course List

1 : Courses that include required field experiences

Video Production and Documentary Filmmaking Minor

• Effective Spring 2026, the Video Production and Documentary Filmmaking Minor was established (published December 15, 2025).

Program Director:Alexander Pyles

The Video Production and Documentary Filmmaking minor helps students develop practical skills and understand the legal and ethical issues inherent in visual media production and independent filmmaking. Students get hands-on experience with camera and audio equipment, learn visual storytelling and editing techniques and work individually and in teams to create compelling digital content.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Understand the ethical guidelines and practices that govern media production and the legal implications and considerations that inform that work.
2. Demonstrate the ability to apply appropriate tools and technology, including the creation and editing of video and other images.
3. Understand the importance of deadlines and timelines in video production.

Requirements

Course List

Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Minor

• Effective Spring 2026, the Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Minor was established (published October 21, 2025).

Program Director: Neda Atanasoski, Ph.D.

Rooted in the liberatory traditions of Women’s Studies, the Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies minor can supplement any student’s program of study at the University of Maryland. It allows students to explore structural inequities based on intersecting hierarchies of colonialism, gender, caste, race, sexuality, ethnicity, nationality, and ability, with the aim of transforming systems of oppression and imagining freer futures. Students will take courses informed by intersectional and anti-colonial scholarship and methodologies from the arts and humanities, social sciences, and many other fields. Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies offers students a flexible program of study in which there is focused attention on building students’ analysis of varied modes of structural and interlinked oppressions and devising visions for critiquing, resisting, and dismantling such modes of systemic violence.

Courses offered by this department may be found under the following acronyms: WGSS, LGBT. They were previously also offered under WMST.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Students will be able to critically analyze issues of power related to women, race/ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and class.
2. Students will understand and be able to critique key developments in gender, critical race, and queer thought as strategies for social change.
3. Students will demonstrate familiarity with major concepts and vocabulary of gender, critical race, and queer thought in the field of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.

Requirements

Students will earn a total of 15 credit hours, distributed as indicated below.  At least 9 credits must be at or above the 3xx level. No course with a grade less than "C-" may be used to satisfy the minor. An overall GPA of 2.0 in the minor is required for graduation. Students will design their programs in consultation with a Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies advisor. \ Students may use a maximum of six credits (or two courses) to satisfy the requirements of both their major and the minor in WGSS. However, courses taken to complete the minor in WGSS may not be used to satisfy the requirements of another minor. No more than six of the required credits (or two courses) may be taken at an institution other than the University of Maryland, College Park. However, at least six 3xx or 4xx-level credits applied to the minor must be taken at this university.

Course List

1 : Please refer to the WGSS major in the Undergraduate Catalog for the full list of Lower Level Core and Elective Courses

2 : Please refer to the WGSS major in the Undergraduate Catalog for the full list of Upper Level Core and Elective Courses