Study Abroad

From the Himalayan peaks to the shores of Costa Rica, UW Environmental Studies students cross borders and immerse themselves in different cultures to enrich their education. Studying abroad allows you to learn and grow in areas like independence, adaptability, teamwork, and creativity, and stretches your thinking by exposing you to a vast array of viewpoints and ways of living. New research out of the University of Washington shows that students who study abroad as part of their college experience actually complete their degrees at higher rates than those who don’t study abroad, especially among historically underserved student populations.

If you’re considering study abroad, visit the UW Study Abroad office to learn more about available programs, typical costs, and approval information. Meet with your advisor before applying for study abroad to make sure it fits within your course plan.

A group of students are gathered around a university of washington flag. They are holding the flag, looking at the camera, and smiling. They are in Taiwan, where the setting is a sunny sky and a long walkway lined with palm trees.

UW Study Abroad Programs

These programs are advertised and led by UW faculty who have developed coursework surrounding a theme in the study abroad location. They can be led by faculty within the Program on the Environment or faculty in other departments. Also included here are exploration seminars, where students participate in a short-term (3-4 weeks) program during Early Fall Start to earn 5 credits.

  • Faculty-led
  • Terms correspond with UW term dates
  • Coursework and field studies focused on particular academic themes
  • 12-15 UW credits per quarter; 6-15 credits for Summer term options; 5 credits for exploration seminars
  • On-site UW support; minimal or no foreign language background necessary

Affiliated Programs

The UW Study Abroad Office approves a variety of programs offered by other schools or independent providers. If you choose to go with this type of program, you will need to complete paperwork with the Study Abroad office to ensure the courses you take are converted to UW course numbers.

  • Term length may be one quarter, one semester, or one academic year
  • 20-24 UW quarter credits per semester of coursework completed
  • Instruction may be in English, language of host country, or a combination

University Exchange

In a university exchange, you attend regular classes at one of over 70 partner universities around the world. Class instruction may be in English or the language of the host country, and these programs are typically semester or year long. Unlike other study abroad programs, this is a full immersion and results in a much more independent experience as opposed to studying abroad in a cohort of other students. Paperwork must be submitted in order to convert classes to UW course numbers.

IE3 Global Internships

IE3 Global offers a variety of internship opportunities in different countries that you can complete and receive credit for while integrating academics with employment experience. Internships can be with NGOs, educational institutions, and private companies worldwide. Host organizations provide professional supervision and logistical on-site support, but students must be self-motivated and committed to independent learning. Interested students should speak with an advisor in the UW Study Abroad office to learn more.

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