Academics

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Learn about India’s impressive history and demographic diversity through coursework, lectures, and volunteer service activities 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. At the end of this exciting 6-week summer, you’ll present a final research report or project and return home with a deep understanding of India.

Unique study opportunities

  • Get an introduction to India while learning in an English-language program.
  • Learn alongside international and local students interested in education, diplomacy, and leadership.
  • Take classes on Indian economy, politics, history, culture, heritage, and development and sustainability.
  • Gain fieldwork experience in a unique community service initiative 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)
    Lectures will explore India’s approach to sustainable growth, resource conservation, social equity, and environmental stewardship. The discussions will highlight the impact of public policy and the efforts of purpose-driven businesses to tackle environmental and social challenges.
  • Innovation, Technology, & the Future of Work (4.5 quarter/3.0 semester units, upper division)
    Lectures will focus on how India is adapting to rapid technological advancements, fostering innovation and preparing for the future of work. The discussions will highlight how emerging technology such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being harnessed ethically and inclusively to enhance education, health and governance.

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)
    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. 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. 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 (fieldwork 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.