Community Engagement Scholars

Seven Community Engagement Scholars holding shovels and rakes in a yard.
Community Engagement Scholars partner with Habitat for Humanity Sussex County.

Program Overview

The Community Engagement Scholars Course of Study (CESCS) is a four-year academic program that prepares students for lives as engaged citizens.

In the first year, scholars take two academic courses (SPPA100: Introduction to Civic Engagement, and UAPP110: Introduction to Public Policy).

In the following years, scholars participate in semester or summer-based immersion programs; service trips and community-based opportunities. 

Scholars receive enhanced advising from the Community Engagement Initiative to integrate a community engagement focus into coursework, culminating with an e-portfolio submitted to the Community Engagement Scholars Course of Study Faculty Review Board.

Community Engagement Scholars Information Sheet

The Community Engagement Scholars program is administered through UD’s Community Engagement Initiative. Questions about the program can be sent to BlueHensEngage@udel.edu.

Alexandra Lee stands with her arm around her Lori's Hands client Pam.

Student Spotlight: Alexandra Lee

Community Engagement Scholar transforms passions into purposeful work

Read more

How can I become a Community Engagement Scholar?

There are two avenues for becoming a Community Engagement Scholar:

Incoming first-year students are invited to apply shortly after they receive their UD acceptance letter. The application process is managed by Undergraduate Admissions.

Current students may apply to the Community Engagement Scholars program through the second semester of their sophomore year. We suggest you apply as early as possible in your academic career to ensure you have time to meet all the requirements.

  • Interested current students should complete the Community Engagement Scholars application (Google form).
  • The application includes an essay, which describes how community engagement is connected to the applicant’s academic and career goals and identifies the core issue that will serve as the focus of the course of study. 
  • Current student applicants should have and maintain a 3.2 GPA and meet all course of study requirements. Courses taken prior to acceptance to the Community Engagement Scholars course of study may meet requirements, contingent upon approval of the Faculty Review Board.
  • First year students may apply after completing one semester at UD.
    Deadline: Rolling admissions.
  • Sophomores may apply in the fall.
    Deadline: Rolling admissions.

Are you a current student interested in becoming a Community Engagement Scholar? Email Leann Moore at lmoore@udel.edu to set up an interview.

Course of Study Requirements

Download the CE Scholars Planning Document for the course of study requirements. (Updated Dec. 2023)

Download the Immersion Program Contract.