Transfer Credit Process for Study Abroad Programs

  • Initial Steps

    • Students need to connect with department chairs to discuss potential transfer credits.

    • Required to send course descriptions showing the credits to inquire about acceptance for Major or Minor requirements.

  • Integration Credit Inquiries

    • For integrative courses or courses critical to fulfilling certain requirements, students should reach out to Barb Novak in the Student Records Office.

    • Responsibility of Barb Novak:

      • Determines if courses meet the criteria for Humanitarian or other necessary credits.

  • Outbound Program Responsibilities

    • Students are responsible for coordinating with their external program for all pre-departure materials.

    • Important considerations for programs lasting more than 90 days include visa requirements and related documentation.

  • Financial Aid Structure

    • For the semester abroad, students are still considered enrolled.

    • A $500 study abroad fee must be paid to the institution.

    • Students can use FAFSA-based aid for their study abroad program.

    • All institutional scholarships or financial aid must be utilized on top of that semester.

  • Transfer Credit Acceptance Criteria

    • Students must ensure that chosen programs offer US-accredited transcripts.

    • Programs must provide 'wraparound services' to qualify for approval.

    • Wraparound services may include housing assistance, pre-departure coordination, personal support during the study abroad experience, etc.

    • Direct enroll programs are generally not accepted because they don't offer US-accredited transcripts and often lack adequate student support services.

  • Selection Process for Programs

    • Students should review lists of approved providers and identify programs that meet their educational needs.

    • Example programs include:

      • Florence University of Arts (CIS Program)

      • Other suggested programs include study options in Paris and Milan.

    • Students should communicate with department chairs regarding specific courses in their programs that they wish to pursue.

    • Example course: "Staging Italian Opera" (3 US credits)

    • Courses for experiential learning, such as community-based learning, must be vetted through appropriate channels, in this instance to Barb Novak for integrative course rating.

  • Enrollment Status and Requirements

    • Students must maintain a full academic load while abroad to be recognized as external students.

    • The enrollment ensures that students fulfill their degree requirements and validate the credits earned abroad.

  • General Guidance and Support

    • Communication with a department chair is encouraged for clarity regarding credit acceptance before selecting a study abroad program.

    • Once a decision about the program is made, students should seek formal approval through established forms for study abroad participation.

  • Future Considerations

    • Although some programs are more appealing, their support and credit acceptance must be double-checked to ensure feasibility within each student’s degree plan.

    • Other options for upcoming semesters can include exploring additional programs that align with the student's academic career and interests.

    • Address potential overlap with one's double major or minor, ensuring all educational opportunities are explored thoroughly.

  • Final Notes

    • Students are encouraged to remain proactive in their search for programs and resources, ensuring thorough understanding of all applicable requirements and available support services for their selected study abroad expeditions.