Global Awareness Certificate

In this module, you will have the opportunity to choose engaging courses that explore the foundations of globalization debates, deepen your understanding planetary boundaries and promote transdisciplinary collaboration to tackle global challenges. The module includes a unique learning experience through a virtual world tour in the form of a serious game using Graveler. Through this immersive experience, you will explore historical cities, leading academic institutions, explore planetary issues, and build cooperative solutions across disciplines and borders.

In this module, you will actively engage in courses centered on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). You will have the opportunity to learn from international experts, exchange knowledge across disciplines, and contribute to actionable solutions for a more sustainable and equitable future. By participating in discussions, case studies, and hands-on projects, you will gain the skills needed to drive meaningful change in both local and global contexts. 

Courses in this module explore the key environmental challenges facing the planet, such as climate change, resource depletion, biodiversity loss, and examines innovative as well as nature-based solutions for these challenges. You will analyze frameworks and global strategies to address critical climate and planetary issues.  

Courses in this module focus on the dynamics of international relations, global governance, and the structures that shape global cooperation and conflict. You will be able to understand major international organizations, treaties, and the role of state and non-state actors in addressing global challenges. 

The module offers a comprehensive approach to global communication and cultural immersion. It equips you with the skills needed to navigate diverse international settings through courses such as intercultural competence and multilingual communication. 

Note: 

(1) For courses within this module carrying higher credit loads (e.g., 4, 6 or 9 credits), only 3 credits can be accredited toward your Global Awareness Certificate. If you have taken multiple such courses, we are only able to count 3 CP that credits towards your certificate. To fill the remaining credit requirements, you must enroll in additional GAE-offered courses. 

(2) In this module, some courses only offer 2 CP you need to enroll in additional courses to fulfill the requirement. 

The module constitutes of courses that allows students for more in-depth exploration of pressing global issues such as poverty, inequality, and migration. You will be able to critically assess these challenges and discuss potential solutions through a multidisciplinary lens, drawing connections to the SDGs and global policy frameworks. 

Once you have earned a minimum of 15 credit points, complete the application form and submit your transcript of records to gaespam prevention@tracs.uni-tuebingen.de to receive your certificate. 
A list of eligible courses is available to view in the ‘Credible courses’ Download sections on the right. 

1. How many credit points do I need to obtain the certificate?
   → You need a minimum of 15 credit points (CP) to receive the Global Awareness Certificate.
    
2. How many courses are mandatory to receive the certificate?
   → With the updated certificate structure, there are no mandatory courses. However, we highly recommend taking at least one course per semester from the Introductory Courses of GAE (e.g., What is Globalization? or Planetary Challenges) to build a strong foundation.
   I have taken courses with 4CP, 6 CP or 9 CP, mainly in Language and Cultural Skills, and I am at the end of my semester. Can I still get the certificate?
   → Under the new structure, only 3 CP will be accredited for language and related courses in the Language and Cultural Skills module.
   
   For example:
   - Within the module Language and cultural skills. If you have taken two courses (e.g., 6 CP + 9 CP), only 3 CP will count toward your certificate, leaving you 12 CP short.
   
   - If you have taken courses totaling 9 CP + 7 CP, only 3 CP will be credited, and you will still need 12 CP to meet the 15 CP requirement.
   
   Exception: 
   If you are finishing your studies by Winter Term 2025 and cannot enroll in additional courses, special accommodations may apply only to those students please contact us. For all other students, missing credits must be fulfilled through additional coursework.
    
3. I have not taken any introductory courses. Can I still get the certificate?
   → Yes, as long as you fulfill the 15 CP requirement. However, we strongly recommend taking at least one introductory course each semester to enhance your global perspective. A wellbalanced selection across different modules is encouraged based on your interests. 

If you have any questions about the Global Awareness certificate, please contact gaespam prevention@tracs.unituebingen.de.