Academics

Field of Study: Development Studies, International Studies, Political Science, Social Sciences

Learn about India’s impressive history and demographic diversity through coursework, including from guest lecturers that are experts in the field, and a unique internship at New Delhi’s International Summer School (ISS). With majestic landmarks, divergent places of worship, and countless museums, Delhi's visual riches complement a set curriculum of coursework taught in English.

Unique study opportunities

  • Learn directly from guest lecturers, including ambassadors, government officials, and company founders.
  • Learn alongside international and local students interested in education, diplomacy, and leadership.
  • Take a diverse course load in political science, environmental policy, business, law, architecture, and media.
  • Gain fieldwork experience in a unique internship of your choosing.

Language

Language of Instruction: English

Language Study: None

While language study isn’t a part of the regular curriculum, you’ll be continually engaged in short lessons on conversational Hindi for beginners. These lessons do not award credit.

Courses and credit

Requirements While Abroad

To successfully complete this program:

  • Take three courses for a total of 12.5 quarter/8.3 semester UC units.
  • Enroll in all program courses and participate in all program activities.

Current Program Courses

The program curriculum is organized in two sections.

Section 1: Classwork in New Delhi

During the first four weeks of instruction, you’ll learn about contemporary India in two courses:

  • Sustainability, Growth, & Development (4.5 quarter/3.0 semester units, upper division)
    This course explores India’s approach to sustainable growth, resource conservation, social equity, and environmental stewardship. Through the lens of public policy, implementation challenges, and purpose-driven businesses, students examine how India is navigating competing priorities and addressing environmental and social challenges in real time.
  • Innovation, Technology, & the Future of Work (4.5 quarter/3.0 semester units, upper division)
    This course explores how India is navigating the tension between rapid technological advancement and responsible implementation, examining how AI can be harnessed ethically and inclusively to transform education, healthcare, and public services while preparing its workforce for the future. Through the lens of the world’s largest democracy, students investigate how governance adapts to innovation in real time.

The courses are taught by local faculty and include guest lectures by renowned experts in their field. You must take these courses for a letter grade.

Section 2: Fieldwork in New Delhi
  • Internship & Service Learning (3.5 quarter units/2.3 semester units, upper division)
    During the final two weeks, an internship and service learning component will complement the program with the opportunity to intern with organizations across tech firms, non-profit and community-based social enterprises, retail brands, legal services, and more. Recent internships include Fabindia, World Wildlife Fund, and the Population Foundation of India. You can take this for either a letter grade or as pass/no pass.

Additional or optional coursework, internships, and research for academic credit are not possible on this program.

Catalogs and resources

Academic culture

Regularly supported by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, this program is highly focused on introducing India to promising students from all over the world. You'll be in the program with other international students and local students. 

In supplemental course seminars and workshops, you’ll have the chance to interact with eminent speakers and experts in their respective fields, visit important historic and cultural sites, and develop your leadership potential.

The service module (internship course) builds on the class material, but is tailored toward your specific interests and values. Journal entries, blogs, group project submissions, and other research work will weigh into your assessment for this segment of the program.

Grades

You will earn direct UC credit and grades for all coursework. Grades are primarily based on attendance and participation, literature review, and a short research paper. Grades are typically available in late October.

Tip: If you intend to put yourself on your campus degree list for graduation while on UCEAP, consult your campus advisors before departure about possible delays in the degree verification process.