Considering Study Abroad?
Study abroad can provide you with the opportunity to add an international dimension to your education, by both diversifying and broadening your education in ways not possible through traditional academic study alone.  By studying and living in another country, you have the opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of other societies and customs, thus expanding your knowledge of the world and increasing your awareness of other cultures. 

Living abroad can also lead to increased maturity, independence, adaptability, and ability to cope with new and different situations – traits that help prepare you for graduate school and qualities employers look for when hiring new professionals.  As today’s job market reflects the growing importance of internationalization, there is a need for graduates who can think critically and have knowledge about other cultures, languages, politics and business practices. 

Study abroad is also very feasible.  There are numerous scholarships for international study and nearly all financial aid and scholarships received on campus can be applied toward study abroad.  You can build study abroad into your academic program and make progress toward fulfilling degree requirements usually without delaying graduation.  Not only can major, minor, or general elective credit be earned while abroad, but you can also study a subject or language not offered on campus.  Study art and architecture in Italy or Danish in Copenhagen, for example.  Additionally, study abroad does not require knowledge of a foreign language.  You can study in English, or take advantage of the opportunity to develop or perfect foreign language skills. 

Finally, study abroad can be fun!  You can explore new interests and develop new friendships while spending a semester abroad.  Take classes with students from around the world, and during your free time try playing rugby in Australia or hiking in the Scottish highlands.  Take a cooking course in France or tango lessons in Argentina.

USC’s Study Abroad staff can provide you with information on summer, semester, and year-long study abroad opportunities.  You can also visit our Programs section for more information about the types of programs offered. For more information on the academic, career, and personal benefits associated with studying overseas, please see our brief on Why Study Abroad?