In their senior year, LIU Global students complete the International Research and Internship Semester (IRIS) in the fall and the Capstone Semester in New York City in the spring. Over these two semesters, students conduct independent research for their senior thesis on a global issue of their choice, while completing two internships—one international and one in New York City—to prepare for their careers.
The IRIS semester includes:
Students can choose from LIU Global Centers in Costa Rica, Australia, or Spain, or propose IRIS programs with partner organizations in locations like Bali, Germany, Trinidad & Tobago, Thailand, and Morocco.
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Junior Seminar (IRIS Proposal) |
Fall IRIS |
Spring Capstone |
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Senior Thesis I International Internship |
Global Studies Capstone Seminar Senior Thesis II New York City Internship |
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LIU Global or LIU Brooklyn electives |
LIU Global or LIU Brooklyn electives |
Academic Overview
In the fall of their senior year, students participate in the International Research and Internship Semester (IRIS), where they develop expertise on a global challenge of their choice. This research forms the basis of their senior thesis, completed during the Capstone Semester.
Junior Seminar and IRIS Proposal
During their third year, students identify a global issue to investigate in depth. In the Junior Seminar, they create a research proposal, including a bibliography and a plan to explore the issue’s local impact and responses at an IRIS site. They also secure an internship with a partner organization relevant to their research.
IRIS Curriculum
The IRIS curriculum includes two core courses:
Additionally, students design a self-directed learning plan, which may include Special Topics courses or language study, to deepen their expertise. This plan is developed during the Junior Seminar and overseen by their IRIS advisor.