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  • Study Abroad : Semester & Academic Year Programs

Semester & Academic Year Programs

Our study abroad programs that are either run directly by Roger Williams University or by affiliated programs. 

RWU has developed formal affiliations with a carefully selected list of quality program providers that are recognized nationally for their proven academic integrity, strong focus on experiential learning and excellent reputation for providing quality support services to students abroad. In order to make the study abroad process as seamless as possible, RWU students who participate on these affiliated programs will, in most cases, continue to pay their tuition, fees, room and board directly to RWU. This arrangement allows RWU students to remain eligible to receive federal and state financial aid, as well as institutional aid.

RWU students have a choice between classic lecture-based programs abroad, field-based programs and discipline-specific programs.

University-based programs provide a well-structured opportunity for students to expand their knowledge of the host culture and to develop a well-grounded perceptual understanding of their new environment. Academic credit is primarily acquired through classroom instruction, although certain courses (e.g., art, history, civilization) will complement classroom instruction with field trips and cultural excursions.

Language and culture-based programs are designed to encourage and motivate students to immerse themselves as much as possible into the local culture. Although classroom lectures are an important dimension of these programs, a major focus is placed on experiential learning, i.e., the development of opportunities for students to have direct contact with the host culture, be it through a field research project, involvement with community service projects or student teaching.  Students who are particularly motivated to undertake the rigors of direct cultural immersion and who are accustomed to working independently might find field-based programs to be particularly rewarding.  

Discipline-specific programs allow natural science, business, mathematics, engineering and education majors to incorporate an international dimension into their studies.  RWU is aware that students outside the humanities and social sciences have traditionally had few options for study abroad, short of extending their studies an additional semester.  We have consequently identified a number of quality discipline-specific programs that will allow such students to study abroad, confident that they are continuing to make progress towards graduation. Careful planning well in advance of the semester abroad is important, so students from these disciplines are particularly encouraged to work closely with both the SCGIP and their faculty advisors to identify the program that is right for them.

For more detailed information on the many programs offered and the process required to apply you can visit the new online application system:

University-based Destinations

Auckland, New Zealand-University of Auckland (Arcadia University) The University of Auckland, established in 1883, has a student body of just under 30,000 students and is the largest university in New Zealand. It has a city campus where most courses are taught, in the center of cosmopolitan Auckland with only a beautiful small park separating the university from the Central Business District. Because of its location in the heart of the city, the University of Auckland is not really a residential campus. Most New Zealand students live in the suburbs and commute to school everyday. However, this doesn't take away from the presence of clubs and societies which offer great opportunities to become involved in campus life. An on-campus recreation center is also available for your use with gyms, work-out rooms, a climbing wall and recreational courses on dance, yoga and other areas available. Courses are offered in more than sixty subject areas at Auckland. While specific strengths exist in Maori and Pacific Studies, biological and marine science, history, engineering, medicine, anthropology, ethnology, mathematics and psychology, there are many other subject areas available. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required. Click here for program application.

Amman, Jordan – University of Jordan (CIEE)
The University of Jordan is the first and oldest university in Jordan. Students take a required Arabic course and round out their schedules with three area studies courses taught in English. Area studies courses are offered in anthropology, history, economics, literature, religion, archaeology, environmental studies, political science and the media. Service learning and internship opportunities are also available for interested students. Minimum GPA of 2.75 required.

Berlin, Germany - Freie Universitat (CIEE)
This program is intended for students who have an interest in contemporary Germany, who wish to pursue coursework in English and study German language. Opportunities exist to study a wide range of courses taught in English focusing on modern Germany. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.

Brisbane, Australia – Griffith University /Nathan & Gold Coast Campus (Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University)
Griffith University is one of Australia’s most progressive universities. Located in Brisbane, Australia’s third largest city, the traditional strength of their classes lies in environmental science, international business and education, but courses are available in a wide range of disciplines. Interested students have an opportunity to participate in a two-week environmental conservation volunteer program with Wild Mountains. Minimum GPA of 2.5 required.

Cairns, Australia – James Cook University (Arcadia University)
James Cook University, located in Northern Australia, uses its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, tropical rainforests, arid outback Queensland and indigenous communities to create an innovative study abroad experience. A comprehensive university, James Cook offers a wide variety of disciplines, not only in marine biology, but also business, economics, engineering, indigenous studies and sociology. Minimum GPA of 2.8 required.

Cape Town, South Africa - University of Cape Town (Arcadia University)
While its history is linked to science, engineering and commerce (whose faculties still excel), UCT is a truly comprehensive institution with outstanding scholarship and faculty in every school within the university. UCT offers an exceptional opportunity for business, science and engineering majors to spend a semester or year of study taking courses in English and remaining on schedule toward graduation. Students may also consider subject areas such as: Finance, Film and Media Studies, Philosophy, Education, Chemistry, Music and Creative Writing . Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.

Dakar, Senegal – Suffolk University Dakar Campus (CIEE)
This is an ideal program for students who are interested or majoring in French studies, African Studies, developmental studies or international relations. The program is geared toward students interested in continuing French language study and learning Wolof, while taking other courses in English and having a cultural immersion experience. Opportunities also include service learning and internships. Minimum GPA of 2.75 required.

Dublin, Ireland – Dublin City University (CIEE)
Dublin City University enjoys a reputation as Ireland’s most progressive university. The goal of the program is to introduce students to the breadth and depth of Irish culture while enhancing their academic studies through integrated study at Dublin City University. The program offers a core course in Irish culture and society, followed by opportunities to study in a variety of disciplines from business and international relations to communications. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.

Galway, Ireland – National University of Ireland, Galway (Arcadia University)
Students select courses from the National University’s regular degree programs with a variety of course offerings including, but not limited to the humanities, sciences and business. Additionally, they offer academic specialties such as innovative research in nanotechnology, human settlement and historical change and integrated digital enterprises. Students will study alongside Irish students in the university community of Galway. While classes are taught in English, the University maintains a strong commitment to the Irish language, Gaelic. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.

Heredia, Costa Rica – Universidad Nacional Autónoma (Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University)
Heredia is located only seven miles away from the nation’s capital, San José. The Universidad Nacional Autonóma is a public university that offers a full curriculum of undergraduate courses, including Latin American studies, sociology, economics and business, environmental sciences, ecology and marine biology. Students are required to enroll in an advanced Spanish language course and a History of Costa Rica course, both arranged by IFSA-Butler. Students then complete their course load by adding three or four courses from the university. All courses are taught in Spanish. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.

Hong Kong, SAR, China- Lingnan University
This program is intended for students who have an interest in studying Chinese language, business, art, history or politics among many other options. Lingnan University's language of instruction is English and serves as a fantastic gateway to Asia. Minimum GPA of 2.6 required.

Hyderabad, India – University of Hyderabad (CIEE)
The program offers students a combination of specially designed courses and regular university courses in such fields as communications, anthropology, dance, art, political science, economics and Hindi, Telugu and Urdu languages. Students can study the impact of modernity upon tradition in the world’s largest democracy though history, literature, philosophy and sociology. This program is also ideal for a student who would like partake in a service learning project or undertake an internship. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.

Istanbul, Turkey – Koc University (CIEE)
This program offers a choice of English-taught courses in a wide range of subjects, from archaeology to accounting and engineering to social sciences. There are opportunities to participate in community involvement, through internships or volunteering. Students are immersed in cultural and educational activities such as visits to museums, international film and music festivals, the State Ballet, the opera and more. Minimum GPA of 2.75 required.

Leiden, Netherlands (Central College)
Leiden, the Netherlands is located less than 30 minutes from Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. Leiden University is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious university. Students take a required Dutch course with additional classes to round out their schedule. Classes range from traditional courses to internships and service learning opportunities. All courses are geared to highlight your study abroad experience and many courses include field-trips both within and outside of the country. Courses are available in language, art, art history, and political science.

Lisbon, Portugal – Universidade Nova de Lisboa (CIEE)
This program is designed for students of all levels of Portuguese, beginner to advanced. Beginning and intermediate students can start their Portuguese training or strengthen their existing skills while taking content courses in English. Advanced Portuguese students are able to directly enroll in university courses in Portuguese alongside local and other international students. The range of courses available appeals to students with a strong interest in the social sciences and humanities and include anthropology, literature, music, politics and sociology. Minimum GPA of 2.75 required.

London, England – University of Westminster
The University, founded in 1838, offers students the opportunity to study in the heart of one of the worlds truly great cities of commerce, culture and learning.  Studying abroad at the University of Westminster offers you the chance to live and study with students of all ages, from many different countries, in a lively, friendly atmosphere. You will satisfy your intellectual curiosity, earn university credits and explore London, one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Minimum GPA of 2.75 required.

London, England – University of London, Birkbeck (Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University)
With a curriculum developed especially for American students, Birkbeck makes the most of its home city by integrating London’s sights and history into the courses. Included in the program are field trips to the historic homes, museums and galleries of London to help students better understand their coursework. Although courses are not integrated into the regular Birkbeck curriculum, students have access to the University of London’s college facilities, and all classes are taught by Birkbeck’s faculty. Minimum GPA of 2.8 required.

Mendoza, Argentina – Universidad Nacional de Cuyo/ Intermediate Latin American Studies Program (Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University)
The Universidad Nacional de Cuyo differs from most South American institutions in that it has a self-contained campus. UNC is considered a top regional university overall, and one of the most respected universities in South America in the liberal and fine arts, with courses in social science available. Students take university courses in regular classroom settings with Argentine students. All courses are taught in Spanish. Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

Northern Ireland – University of Ulster (Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University)
The University of Ulster is the largest university on the island of Ireland and one of the largest in the UK. There are four campuses: Coleraine, Jordanstown in Newtownabbey, Belfast and Magee in Derry. Each campus has its strength; Coleraine’s coursework lies in environmental studies, Jordanstown courses focus on business, management and engineering, Belfast’s coursework concentrates on art and design and Magee has a unique program for peace and conflict studies. Minimum GPA of 2.8 required.

Palmerstown North, New Zealand – Massey University (Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University)
Massey University is located in the Manawau region on the North Island and is a major comprehensive university. Massey has a philosophy of helping students prepare for their careers with programs that are relevant, innovative, flexible and progressive. Study abroad students are able to choose courses from across a wide range of disciplines and faculties, including its fine arts and design program. Minimum GPA of 2.75 required.

Prague, Czech Republic - CIEE Study Center in Prague/Charles University (CIEE)
The program is intended for students who have an interest in the Czech Republic and Central Europe, as well as in the political, social and/or economic transformation from state control to democratic market-based systems. Students can also study art and architecture, film studies and Czech culture as well as other areas. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.

Santiago, Chile – Pontificia Universidad de Chile ((Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University)
For outstanding academics, consider the Chilean Universities Program (CUP) in Santiago. On the CUP, students can choose from an array of courses at Universidad de Chile and Pontífica Universidad Católica de Chile. University coursework ranges from humanities and natural sciences to business classes. Students take these university courses in regular classroom settings with Chilean students. All courses taught in Spanish. Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

Shanghai, China – East China Normal University (CIEE)
The program offers various area studies courses in English--global studies, international relations, economics and modern Chinese history, and intensive language-training at one of the most highly rated language-training centers in Shanghai. The program accommodates both students who have no previous course work in Chinese and those who have studied Chinese for several semesters. Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

Stirling and Edinburgh, Scotland – University of Stirling & University of Edinburg (Arcadia University)
The University of Stirling, located in the center of Scotland, offers a great choice of subjects, with high-quality courses in 42 areas with notable strengths in Scottish studies, environmental studies, psychology, marine science and marine biology. Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

The University of Edinburgh, in the nation’s capital, enjoys a distinguished status as one of the leading research universities in Europe. Its extensive range of subject offerings makes the University of Edinburgh a popular choice for study abroad students. Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

Tokyo, Japan- CIEE Study Center at Sophia University (CIEE)
The CIEE Study Center at Sophia University is designed to provide students with superior cross-cultural and language training by way of intensive Japanese language course work, offering a range of courses in various disciplines, a managed home-stay program and providing on-site staff to support the students. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.

Wollongong, Australia – University of Wollongong
The University of Wollongong is located in New South Wales’ Pacific coastline, some 80 kilometers south of Australia’s economic center, Sydney. With course offerings ranging from engineering to contemporary indigenous issues, Wollongong offers a wide range of classes. The attractive campus setting is very popular with students. The university also attracts large numbers of international students, and is renowned for its challenging academic programs. Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

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Language and Culture-based Programs

Athens, Greece – Center for Hellenic and Balkan Studies (Arcadia University) This program offers courses in classical, Byzantine and modern Greek studies for students of North American universities. Studies are enhanced by the wealth of historical and cultural resources available in Athens and the surrounding region, with both excursions and field-study possibilities for a hands-on experience. With the exception of Greek-language courses, all courses are taught in English. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required. Click here for program application.

Barcelona, Spain - Arcadia Center for Catalan, Spanish & Mediterranean Studies (Arcadia University)
This program, located in the bustling neighborhood of L'Eixample, allows students at all levels of Spanish to be accommodated. Courses that are available include Spanish and Catalan language, business, studio art, political science, art history and literature. Instruction is in both Spanish and English. Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

 

Granada, Spain - University of Granada (Central College)
The Central College-Granada program is a Spanish immersion program with the goal of developing students’ Spanish language and cross-cultural skills, as well as providing them the opportunity to take courses in the liberal arts. With its distinctive cultural heritage and history, Granada provides a unique experience for students at all levels of Spanish, from beginning to bilingual. Students may choose an intensive language program or a combination of language and liberal arts courses. They may also enhance their skills by participating in an internship or service learning experience.

Paris, France - CIEE Study Center in Paris (CIEE)
This program is geared toward students who have completed a minimum of two semesters of French study (or the equivalent) and wish to continue improving their language skills while also taking courses on French culture and contemporary France taught in English and/or French. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required & 2 semesters of college level French.

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Discipline-specific Programs

Bermuda – BIOS: Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences
Students take a semester-long immersion into the study of marine science with a program of class work and research that is unique in marine education. In addition to academic pursuits, a semester at BIOS will expose students to a unique research environment unlike a normal university setting. As BIOS is a residential community of researchers, students not only study and work with active scientists, but eat meals, play sports and socialize with faculty, graduate students and technicians who reside on the campus.

Monteverde, Costa Rica – Monteverde Biological Field Station
CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange)

This program is designed for students with biology-related majors who have completed at least one year of introductory biology. Its aim is to give biology and related majors a sophisticated and up-to-date understanding of tropical ecology and its conservation. All biology courses are taught in English.

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