Study Abroad Programs

There are a variety of programs available to students and various ways to classify the programs.

The first classification is concerns who OSU students study with:

Classes Primarily with Host-Country Students

Classes are taken at an overseas university, allowing you to choose from a variety of courses. Programs offer further cultural immersion with local students. Program dates follow the academic calendar of the overseas university, rather than the OSU calendar. Terms may begin earlier or end later. You are expected to perform at the same level as a local student and are graded accordingly.

Classes Primarily with US Students

Classes are usually taught in a study abroad center for US and/or international students by instructors experienced with study abroad students. Courses are often similar to US classes with syllabi, regular assignments, and more frequent exams. Programs usually follow the US calendar. Programs generally have a more focused selection of courses.

Combined Option

Programs allow you to experience both university and study abroad center educational settings. This is ideal if you would like to take only a few university courses or are not confident in your language skills.

Second Classification: Program Administration

Oregon State University (OSU) and Oregon University System (OUS) Programs

These programs are administered by the International Programs Office, and provide comprehensive services. OSU and OUS programs are generally more affordable. OSU and OUS programs have a high level of on-site support and may be led by OSU or other Oregon university faculty.

College and Departmental Exchange Programs

These programs are administered by OSU Colleges and Departments. Apply directly to the College or Department for these programs. Enroll in foreign universities and take classes in most academic areas offered at the university. Independence and flexibility are required of you, as on-site support can be limited and you are expected to integrate like a student of that country. Program and course information is limited to booklets and web sites.

AHA Programs

AHA programs are run by a consortium of universities in the Northwest and Mid-West. These programs are generally affordably priced. They have dedicated faculty and a high level of on-site support. These programs typically have a low language requirement, if any at all.

Co-sponsored Programs

These programs are administered by other institutions and organizations, and have been evaluated and endorsed by the Study Abroad Office and the Study Abroad Advisory Committee. On-site support varies, but most programs offer comprehensive on-site support. Study Abroad advisors can offer some information, but specific program information is available from the program sponsor. The Study Abroad Office provides assistance only with registration, financial aid, and insurance.

For a complete listing of all programs available to OSU students, see study abroad program search

IE3 International Internships

Students earn academic credit while abroad on their internship and earn professional experience in their major field. IE3 Global Internships arranges placement and provides pre-departure orientation, international health insurance, learning tools, monitoring and support. A program fee is charged in lieu of tuition. The program fee includes academic credit (up to 12 quarter credit hours the first term). Most forms of financial aid can be applied toward the costs of an internship. For more information, see IE3 Global Internships website.

International Degree Program

The International Degree is Oregon State University's original dual degree program. It allows any interested undergraduate student the opportunity to explore the international dimensions of their primary degree. There are four major components to a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from OSU: International Degree students complete 32 credits in addition to their primary degree. These credits include study, work, or research overseas; fourth year college level proficiency in a second language; four ID core courses; and a senior thesis that allows the student to explore the global dimensions of his/her field of study.