Indiana University Bloomington

Foreign Area Officer (FAO)

London, England. Paul Pass.

West European Studies (WEST) at Indiana University offers one of the country's few master's degrees focusing on Western Europe. The master's curriculum is designed to be completed in 18-months, including language instruction and thesis, and many Foreign Area Officers (FAOs) have successfully completed this program. In fact, nearly one-third of all WEST alums are FAOs that serve as military attaches in American Embassies in Europe. Master's degree requirements are outlined in the graduate school bulletin.

Course Requirements:

Master's students must complete a total of 30 credit hours of coursework, including:

Language Requirements

Oral/Aural knowledge of one approved West European language plus reading knowledge in another European language appropriate to the student's program. The appropriateness of the second language will be determined with the approval of the chair of the department. Oral Proficiency: Oral/aural proficiency is determined by taking an exam administered by the individual language department. Students are responsible for making these arrangements. Reading Knowledge: Reading knowledge of a second language may be acquired by taking the sequence of 491-492 in the chosen language (and earning a grade of "B" or better); by passing the GSFLE (in French, German, or Spanish); or by taking a 300-level or above literature or civilization course. (Consult the Graduate School Bulletin for applicable courses.)

Thesis

After the second semester of coursework, the master's candidate must establish a thesis committee of 3 faculty members appropriate to the student's interests, who will oversee the master's thesis. WEST adheres to thesis format and printing requirements set by the University Graduate School. Master's theses range in length from 50 to 100 pages.

Coordination

Students are ultimately responsible for verifying that they have indeed fulfilled all degree requirements. Candidates are advised to regularly meet with the Director to verify course schedules before registering and to confirm that all the necessary signatures and documents are on file.

Completing the Degree: Foreign Area Officers

Transcript

For a transcript reflecting one’s final degree as well as academic achievements, complete a transcript request form (available outside of Franklin Hall 112) and return it to the Office of the Registrar. Detailed information is available from the Registrar's Office.

Academic Evaluation Report (AER)

Before leaving, make sure that WEST completes an AER. Required information includes: date of last physical exam, height, and weight. At the time you request the AER, it is a good idea to supply WEST with a list of any extracurricular and community activities which should be included in the AER. Confirm with the department how the required number of copies of the AER will reach their destination, that is, whether WEST will send them, or whether they will be sent along with copies of the transcript.

Exit Interview

Arrange an exit interview meeting with the department director. Your feedback on the program will help us better serve FAOs in the future. Please leave forwarding addresses and placement information with WEST; we like to keep in touch with our alumni.

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