Study Abroad: Frequently-Asked Questions

International Programs

Fritz Cropp Strategic Communication Faculty Anita Ryan International Programs Staff Outreach Resources Visiting Scholars

Study Abroad

Emily Hardt International Programs Staff Paulina Perkins International Programs Staff Frequently-Asked Questions How to Apply Semester Programs Australia Brussels China Denmark Dublin England: London England: Westminster France Scotland Singapore Spain Summer Programs Argentina Australia Beijing Summer XXIX Olympic Games Program Brussels Czech Republic England: London Mexico New York Program Intersession Programs Europe Tour

Are the study abroad programs in English?
Instruction is in English in all but two of the programs. The semester Mexico and Spain programs are taught in Spanish.

Will I get credit and it will delay my graduation?
Because you are able to obtain approval for journalism and non-journalism credit prior to your departure, you should receive credits that will transfer back to MU toward your journalism degree. Your time spent abroad should contribute toward your academic and personal goals.

Will it cost more to study abroad?
Yes. However, it's generally not a great deal more. Many of the exchange programs are comparable in cost to a semester at MU. Some are even cheaper than living in Columbia. The destination and program chosen helps determine the actual expense. Please refer to the program-specific pages for individual program costs. Often your financial aid is applicable to study abroad programs. You can meet with a financial aid advisor to discuss your aid and other possible options for additional aid. You are also encouraged to apply for the Journalism Travel Scholarships awarded every semester.

Won't I miss everything going on at MU for the semester?
As awesome as MU is, your experience abroad will be indescribable. There are no words or Web pages that can encompass the memories, friendships, or experiences you will have during your time studying in another country. And although you may miss a season of MU football, or your favorite organization's formal, you will be experiencing new and exciting events at your host university. You will also find that it is easy to meet new people from all over the world. Don't let this opportunity of a lifetime pass you by. You took the chance to come to MU and have found it rewarding. Take the next step and experience Missouri Journalism abroad!

Do I have to go for a semester?
We offer summer and intersession programs in addition to our semester programs. The study abroad experience is not limited to a specific duration. We believe all students going abroad will benefit and hope you can find a program that best suits your schedule.

When should I apply?
You will apply the semester before you want to study abroad. Please check the Study Abroad home page each semester for updated program-specific deadlines.

Is it safe?
All students will attend mandatory pre-departure orientations covering health and safety, travel precautions, and site-specific information. In addition, all partner abroad universities have on-site international staff readily available to assist students. The MU International Center has an on-call emergency response system that students can also call when abroad.

Is it very competitive?
We believe it is to every student's benefit to study abroad. By experiencing the world and new outside perspectives on journalism, you are not only developing your journalistic skills, but you are also enhancing your own personal growth. You must meet the program eligibility requirements and fulfill the necessary application materials, but as long as you meet those, you should plan on experiencing journalism in a new part of the world.

Shouldn't I spend my time doing an internship, not an international experience?
You do have the time. Some of our programs are even designed with a sequence-specific internship that earns you journalism credit. Individual planning and preparing with your academic, financial, and study abroad advisors will help you decide the best time for you to go. This is the time in your life for learning and experiencing as much as you can academically, personally, and professionally.