International Research and Internship Semester (IRIS)

The International Research and Internship Semester (IRIS) is a program that LIU Global students complete in their senior year, along with the Capstone Semester in New York City. 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.

Program Overview

The IRIS semester includes:

1. Initial thesis research
2. A professional internship
3. A self-designed "special studies" program, developed with an advisor, to deepen academic and professional engagement with a global challenge.

Program Locations

Students can choose from LIU Global Centers in:

• Costa Rica
• Australia
• Spain Or propose IRIS programs with partner organizations in locations like:
  • Bali
  • Germany
  • Trinidad & Tobago
  • Thailand
  • Morocco

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:

• Senior Thesis I: Guides students in refining and executing their research.
• Internship in Global Issues: Prepares students for their internship, with a focus on analyzing its impact and reflecting on their role.

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.

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Overview:

• Founded in 1926 as the Brooklyn Law School
• Expanded to become Long Island University in 1954
• Currently has 6 campuses across New York State
• Enrolls over 20,000 students
• Notable achievements:
  • Ranked among the top 200 universities in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report
  • Recognized for its strong programs in business, education, and health sciences
  • Home to the Arnold & Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, one of the largest pharmacy schools in the country

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Student Life:

Extracurricular Activities:

Over 200 student clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, social, and recreational groups

Clubs:

Examples include the Student Government Association, the Black Student Union, and the International Student Association

Sports Teams:

NCAA Division I athletics in 16 sports, including basketball, football, and soccer

• Student Support Services:

  • Academic Advising
  • Career Counseling
  • Health and Wellness Center
  • Counseling and Psychological Services

• Campus Facilities:

  • Modern academic buildings
  • State-of-the-art athletic facilities
  • Student centers with dining, recreation, and study spaces
  • On-campus housing available at most campuses

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Academics:

• Academic Resources:

  • Over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs
  • Faculty of over 1,000 full-time and part-time professors
  • Research centers and institutes in various fields

• Teaching Methodologies:

  • Traditional lectures
  • Small group discussions
  • Hands-on learning experiences
  • Online and hybrid courses

• Academic Support Services:

  • Tutoring
  • Writing Center
  • Math Lab

• Unique Academic Programs or Initiatives:

  • Honors College
  • Global Studies Program
  • Experiential Learning Program

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Top Reasons to Study Here:

Reputation:

Ranked among the top 200 universities in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report

Specialized Facilities:

State-of-the-art facilities for health sciences, business, and education

Industry Connections:

Partnerships with leading companies and organizations

Notable Alumni:

Includes politicians, business leaders, and entertainers, such as former New York City Mayor David Dinkins and actor Alec Baldwin

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Services:

Counseling:

Counseling and Psychological Services provides individual and group counseling, as well as crisis intervention

Health:

Health and Wellness Center offers medical care, vaccinations, and health education

Housing:

On-campus housing available at most campuses, including traditional dorms, apartments, and townhouses

Library Resources:

Over 1 million volumes in the university libraries, as well as access to online databases and research tools

Technology Support:

IT Help Desk provides technical assistance and support for students

Career Development:

Career Services offers resume writing, interview preparation, and job search assistance