Employers today recognize and value the intercultural and global competencies that students acquire through the study abroad experience. Put simply, it makes “good business sense” to have culturally literate employees.

Students who go abroad expose themselves to challenges that significantly hone their ability to work in diverse environments, to accommodate “difference,” and to adjust quickly to unexpected changes.

They display an emotional resilience that allows them to perform under pressure, an increased flexibility and a willingness to adapt … all skills that will set them apart from other candidates for a career position.

Tuition and Comprehensive Fee

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.

In most cases, students can validate their semester experience abroad by obtaining a Core Concentration in International Studies. Please consult the guidelines for completion of this core concentration.