Study Abroad | Global and Regional Studies Program | The University of Vermont(title)

We consider an off-campus program, such as a study abroad program or a domestic program focused on a particular area of study, to be an especially crucial element of the major.

Many students participate in an off-campus program, for a minimum of a semester, and in some cases, a whole year. We try to make it easy to fulfill the major requirements through such programs by accepting up to one-half of transfer credits towards completion of the degree.

While many students pursue experiential education through travel to another country or site, we also strongly recommend considering domestic on and off-campus programs in which students can pursue a combination of study and internships. Examples include the Washington Semester in the Washington DC area, the City Year in Seattle, and the Semester for Impact Program in Boston.

Connections Beyond the Classroom

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Isabelle seated on the steps of a pyramid in Morroco

Global studies major Isabel MacGregor ‘22 reflected on her study abroad experience in Morocco: “Studying abroad undoubtedly had the most impact on my personal and academic growth throughout my college experience, and moreover, provided opportunities and direction for my career following graduation. As a global studies major with a minor in history and religion, I came [to Morocco] with a basic foundation of skills, knowledge, and background from my classes and experiences at UVM. However, combining that foundation with experiential learning, such as intensive Arabic courses and site visits to local NGOs and refugee organizations, truly accelerated my learning capacities and overall understanding of the field I work and study within.” MacGregor returned to Morocco in September 2022, where she reconnected with her homestay family and many other wonderful people she met during her study abroad experience.  

Seeing Coursework in Action

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girl surrounded by children

2016 grad Laura Felone reflected on her trip to Ghana: "My month in Ghana was one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences of my life. It was such a humbling experience to visit a place that I had learned about from an academic standpoint, and I loved being able to interact with the people of the country to learn about Ghana and Africa from their perspectives. This actually inspired my senior year Honors College thesis. I'm still in touch with my host family from Ghana, and I look forward to the day I get to return to visit them." 

An Opportunity for Growth

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KNguyen landscape portrait

Global studies major Kenny Nguyen ’15 reflected on his study abroad experience in Spain: “Adapting to new situations is a great opportunity to grow. I've learned a lot about myself and how to assimilate into a new culture and a new language. It took some time, but with every success, there has to be some sort of struggle. As a global studies student, I strive to leave a profound mark wherever I am in order to improve the world, somehow, because I want to inspire people and make them think twice about their everyday actions."

Planning for Study Abroad: When to Go
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As long as you have a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA, sophomore status, and good social standing at the university, UVM will grant you permission to study abroad. Most students go during their third year. A handful go during their sophomore year, and others their senior year, but remember that the university requires you to take 30 of your last 45 credit hours at UVM.

Keep in mind that some courses required for your major and/or minor might be offered only during certain semesters. Plan out your major and/or minor in advance, and consider how study abroad will help fulfill those requirements.

Seek Advising
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In order to study abroad, you must attend an information session and meet with a study abroad advisor at the Office of International Education (OIE). You should also meet with your academic advisor as early in your planning as possible to discuss programs, the application process, and your plan for completing the major or minor.

Prerequisites
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Different programs have different prerequisites, which may include language and certain specialized coursework. Be very clear about what you need for your desired program and prioritize those courses in the semesters leading up to the time you want to be abroad. Some programs also have minimum GPA requirements.

While You Are Abroad
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Journal: wherever you go, you will probably experience some culture shock! Journaling is a great way to record your experiences and process your adjustment abroad.

Plan for future work: a study abroad location and experience can provide the basis for a senior thesis, independent study, or term paper after you return.

Save everything: Bring all your syllabi, copies of papers, and other documentation back with you to ensure a smooth transfer of credit.

Choosing a Program
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The UVM Office of International Education maintains a list of approved programs and exchanges. While you can petition to receive credits from a non-approved program, we strongly advise against it. The reason OIE approves programs is that they meet certain minimum educational standards. If the program that interests you is not approved by OIE, chances are good that it does not provide a quality educational experience. Learn more about choosing a study abroad program.

For more information on study abroad opportunities, visit the Office of International Education.