Global Competence Initiative (GCI)

Program Overview

Designed to address the critical need for an American citizenry and workforce that is not only culturally aware but also guided by a strong moral compass, Oakland Catholic's Global Competence Initiative encourages students to cultivate a global perspective on our increasingly interconnected world.

Rooted in Catholic social teaching, GCI prepares students to be agents for change by building off of the magnificent learning occurring in OC's classrooms. Upon fulfilling all academic and program requirements over a four-year period, students earn a Certificate in Global Competence, signifying their commitment to becoming responsible citizens and respected global leaders dedicated to promoting the dignity of all humans.

Download the GCI Statement of Intent Form

Academic Requirements

World History I: Ancient times to 1450 CE (One Year)
World History II: 1450 CE to Present Day (One Year)
World Literature (One Year)
Science (Three Years)
Language Proficiency
Research paper on a Human Geography topic (Senior Year)
Public presentation of research paper subject (Senior Year)

Encounters

Encounters are typically events that take place in a single day or evening. Examples include: lectures, seminars, films and/or cultural events. A written reflection is required following each encounter. An ongoing list of approved events will be made available on the OC website, in daily announcements, and through email contact with participants.

12 encounters over the course of the program are required (3 each year). Sophomores who chose to participate need to complete the 12 encounters over three years (4 each year).

Travel Tales 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to take honors classes or have a certain QPA to participate?

Can I be a Joan of Arc Scholar and pursue a Certificate in Global Competence?

Do I need to formally sign up for the program?

If the commitment becomes more than I can handle, can I withdraw from the program without negative consequences?

Yes. High school is a time when students should try a range of activities in an effort to discover their interests and strengths. If you find that activities and classes you have chosen make it impossible to fulfill the requirements of the program, you may withdraw with no negative consequences.

There is no shame in identifying your priorities! It is a mark of maturity to be able to do so.

Engagements

Engagements are activities that represent a significant investment of time spent in an effort to engage more deeply with an international subject. Examples include: international travel, the World Affairs Council Summer Institute, and the Global Competence Initiative annual Book Group. A reflection, summarizing the impact of each engagement is required.

Over four years, a freshman must participate in 3 approved engagement activities. Sophomores have three years to complete this requirement.