Study of the U.S. Institutes for Scholars - Religious Pluralism in the United States
The Study of the U.S. Institutes for Scholars are five-to-six-week programs designed to introduce 18 foreign scholars from 18 countries to central elements of U.S. history, society, and institutions through a focus on religious pluralism and democracy in the American context.
Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSIs) for Scholars and Secondary Educators are post-graduate level academic programs for mid-career foreign scholars, faculty, practitioners, and secondary educators whose purpose is to strengthen curricula and to improve the teaching about the United States in academic institutions abroad. During the Institutes, scholars engage in rigorous academic coursework and panel discussions, interact and establish networks with American scholars, meet with experts in respective disciplines, visit civic institutions, and in some cases, participate in research symposia and conferences.
Eligibility and Application Overview
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Demonstrated English language proficiency
Have limited prior experience in the United States
Have firm plans to enhance, update, or develop courses and/or educational materials with a U.S. studies focus
Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States
Eligible to receive a United States J-1 visa
Prospective participants should contact the Public Affairs Section of their local U.S. Embassy or Consulate for up-to-date information about current Institutes. U.S. Embassies manage the nomination of candidates, as well as organize participants' visa interviews and international travel to the United States. In some countries, candidates may also be selected by a binational Fulbright Commission. Visit the Study of the U.S. Institutes program page HERE.
Program Objectives
Increase understanding of democratic principles and religious liberty in the U.S.
Deepen comprehension of the varied landscape of U.S. religious belief and practice.
Enhance appreciation for the strengths of a religiously pluralist society.
Develop awareness of creative responses to the challenges of a religiously pluralist society.
Teach participants the principles and practices of interreligious dialogue.
Create rigorous, multi-disciplinary academic engagement that supports participants in the enhancement of their own teaching and scholarship related to the U.S. and religious studies in their regions.
To see pictures of our SUSI Scholars for 2018 click here.
* The DI has also hosted, since 2010, the Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders on Religious Pluralism.
