Does the SCCD have Study Abroad Programs?
How do I decide where to study abroad?
Can I earn credit toward my Associate's Degree?
What are eligibility requirements?
When is the best time to Study Abroad?

Does the SCCD have Study Abroad Programs?

Currently , we have no programs that are run by SCCD faculty. There are many other programs, however, you can choose from that are sponsored by other institutions in the USA. Please check with your advisor before you enroll in one of these other programs to ensure that your credit will transfer back to the SCCD. The SCCD does offer flexible experiential learning credit (Elective credits in your distribution requirements) for a wide variety of study/volunteer/work/intern abroad experiences. In addition, we offer Credit by Exam for several languages if you have lived and studied abroad independently and want academic credit for your language skills. You would pay a fee, take a language test, and be awarded credit for Spanish 102, for example.

How do I decide where to study abroad?

You must consider what region of the world you want to live in and why, whether you want to study in a city or town, what language you want to be immersed in and why, and how much you can afford to spend on the experience. Your long term goals should be considered in these decisions. Traditionally, students have chosen destinations in Europe, thoguh enrollment in programs in Pacific Rim and Latin American countries are increasing. Even if English is your only language, there are still many choices such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India, and some Caribbean and African countries, for example). Mexico and other Latin American countries are good places to learn Spanish and are usually much less expensive than studying in Spain.

Can I earn credit toward my Associate's Degree?

In general, you should be able to find a program that will meet requirements for the Associate Degree. It is important to consult with an advisor to be sure that the credit you earn will either apply toward your distribution requirements or serve as electives, if you still have room in your degree. If you are completing a Workforce Education degree within SCCD, you should plan to work directly with your program counselor. If you are in a transfer degree program, you should also consider contacting the institution where you will complete your bachelor's degree, if you know where this is, to be sure that the credits will be accepted when you transfer. Another important consideration is whether the program is accredited and can be recognized by US institutions. Study Abroad programs offered through a US institution are normally accredited: you would enroll directly with the US institution and receive an official transcript once you finish the program. Many programs are offered by an institution abroad and not through a US institution. In this case, it is very important to find out if a program is accredited before enrolling, as US insitutions cannot generally transfer credit from unaccredited or unrecognized programs.

What are eligibility requirements?

Every program is different. Some programs might require a minimum GPA or require at least sophomore or junior status, for example. Some programs might have a minimum language requirement; i.e. equivalency of one full year of college Japanese. Some are limited to only a particular major (minimum Junior status).

There are benefits to studying abroad both later in your studies or earlier in your studies! If you put off a study abroad experience until you have declared a major or have come to some type of focus in your studies, you can choose a program that will further your interests and allow you to satisfy any prerequisites (including language) or requirements in your program. However, if you are undecided about a major, study abroad can often be a life-changing and clarifying experience. You may return with a better focus on what you want to accomplish in college and beyond.