Welcome! By entering this page, you’ve taken an important first step on a journey that will open your eyes to the world around you!
For many students the mere thought of studying abroad can be an intimidating one.
You’ve come to the right place for the answers…let’s get started!
It is completely natural for a student to feel a bit apprehensive about taking this important step. All students do. Keep in mind that the overseas experience is much more than a vacation. It is a profound learning experience that will engender feelings of exhilaration, apprehension, frustration, satisfaction, self-doubt and accomplishment … sometimes all at the same time. It is, moreover, an exercise in reflection on the road to personal maturity that can bring about positive life transformational rewards, provided the student takes advantage of the tremendous opportunities available for cross-cultural immersion.
In the following, the Center for Global and International Programs will address some of the most important and most frequently asked questions relating to Roger William’s tremendous array of study abroad opportunities.
How and where do I begin?
Your first step…come by to see us! While you will find that many of your questions can be answered by navigating this website, it is important that you come by The Center for Global and International Programs to meet with our Coordinator for Study Abroad, Gina Lopardo. We’re here to address any questions and concerns that you might have. The CGIP’s office hours are from 8:00am to 4:00pm and we are located in the lower level of the Student Center. Come by to meet with us, or if you prefer to set up an appointment, please call (401) 254-3899 or email Gina at glopardo@rwu.edu
What are the requirements for study abroad?
In most cases, RWU students can go abroad as early as the beginning of their sophomore year. For RWU sponsored programs, students must have a 2.5 cumulative grade point average at the time of application. For RWU affiliated programs, minimum cumulative grade point averages vary from 2.5 to 3.0. Other requirements include the following:
- Declaration of major and Core Concentration
- Clean judicial record
- Advisor's/dean's approval
For both RWU sponsored and affiliate programs, two separate applications are required. One is a general RWU application.
The second application is program specific. If you cannot access this one through this website, visit the Center for Global and International Programs to pick one up. Applications shall be accompanied by a $50 non-refundable application fee. Once students are accepted into a program, they must submit a $600 deposit within 30 days of their acceptance. This $600 deposit will be applied to the overall cost of the program if accepted.
For RWU-affiliated programs, the application process is also straightforward but will vary from institution to institution. Rest assured that the Center for Global and International Programs staff will assist you in completing all necessary paperwork.
Where can I go ?
Whether considering going abroad for a semester, a summer session or a winter term, YOU LITERALLY HAVE THE WORLD AVAILABLE TO YOU!
RWU’s flagship semester programs in Florence and London provide carefully structured opportunities for academic study and cultural immersion in these two monumental cities. Additionally, we’ve developed formal affiliations with a carefully selected list of nationally recognized program providers that deliver profound semester-length academic and cultural immersion experiences on all five continents. Depending upon your particular geographical interest and field of study, you have a choice between classic lecture-based programs abroad, field-based programs and discipline-specific programs.
Maybe the semester option is not for you? Not to worry, our short term programs can take you to London, Prague, Vienna, Lisbon, Cuernavaca or Belize (and we’re expanding these options…stay tuned for more!)
How much will it cost?
For the vast majority of programs abroad, the tuition and comprehensive fee is equivalent to tuition, room and board on the Bristol campus. For a select few programs, however, there may be an additional fee premium that will be required. Students are advised to consult with the CGIP to obtain the most up-to-date list of study abroad programs that require a premium fee above RWU tuition, room and board. In addition, students are responsible for the cost of airfare and lab, materials and site-visit fees; if indicated on the financial aid form, these costs will be considered. Health insurance and activities fees are included in the comprehensive fee. An overload charge will be incurred for 18 or more credit hours. Students need to budget independently for optional and extracurricular activities, including personal travel and spending money.
Keep in mind that while abroad on an approved RWU program, you are still considered to be a RWU student. Consequently, your financial aid, scholarships and grants can be applied towards your study abroad experience. If indicated on the financial aid form, additional expenses (airfare, course materials, lab fees, etc.) are considered.
You will need to budget independently for optional and extracurricular activities, including personal travel and spending money.
Take a moment to reflect about your academic and personal desires and preferences. Not all programs are appropriate for every student. Are you adventurous? Maybe a field-based program would work best for you. Would you prefer a more structured program that offers traditional classroom settings? Then you should look into conventional-type programs. Here are more questions you should ask yourself to help you determining what type of program you should consider:
- How long do you want to Study Abroad?
- Would you prefer a university setting or a more intimate and personal setting?
- Do you need to take courses to fulfill major, minor and/or Core Concentration requirements?
- Do you prefer to live in a large city or a small town?
- Would you prefer to live with a host family? In an apartment? In a dormitory?
- Which study model will work best for you? Independent or one similar to the U.S.?
These are just a few of the questions you should ask yourself before you decide where you want to study. The Center for Global and International Programs will be happy to discuss with you your answers to these questions.
How do I learn more?
We invite you to surf the program opportunities available to you. We also strongly encourage you to come by the Center for Global and International Programs to meet with Kevin Hayden, Coordinator for Study Abroad. All application materials can be picked up after your initial consultation with her.