Do you see yourself interning abroad? Or is taking a diverse mix of classes more your style? Maybe your main goal is to learn a foreign language? Depending on your interest and your personal, educational or professional goals, you will want to choose from one of the following program types:

Academic Programs

Intensive Language Programs

Intern/Work/Volunteer Abroad

Academic Programs

Most students who choose to study abroad enroll in traditional programs that last anywhere from a few weeks to a year or more. The benefits of academic programs include:

·          You can take classes in a foreign school or institution and earn credit toward your degree (see note below)

·          You will be fully immersed in the culture of your host country while taking a diverse mix of classes

·          Academic programs will help to ensure that your graduation date is not delayed

·          Classes are offered in a variety of subjects, depending on the program and location

·          Academic programs are good if you want to learn a foreign language

·          You will be able to live with host families from your host country

Intensive Language Programs

Intensive language programs are a great option for students with only a few weeks during the summer or winter to go abroad and want to learn a foreign language. Here are the basics:

·          Programs last anywhere from a few weeks to a year or more

·          Many language schools offer college credit

·          You will have several hours of daily classroom instruction

·          Programs offer activities that let you put to practice what you learn in real-life settings

·          Instructors are native speakers

·          You will be able to live with host families from your host country

Intern/Work/Volunteer Abroad

Is your idea of going abroad volunteering in the rain forest of Ecuador, teaching English to children in Africa, or working with a multinational company in India? If yes, then interning, working or volunteering abroad is for you. These programs will give you a different experience from the traditional study abroad programs. Highlights from these programs include:

·          You will have the opportunity to work directly with locals in your host country

·          Many programs include some classroom instruction, but for the most part you’ll get hands-on experience

·          Credit toward your degree for volunteering, interning or working abroad may be available (see note below)

·          Many intern/work programs are paid

·          You may be able to live with host families from your host country

Note: Consult the study abroad/academic advisor at your home campus to determine which classes you will earn credit for.

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