We have exceeded our capacity to accept guest students into Alma
College International Study programs. At this time only students
enrolled at Alma College may apply for admission to these programs.
To submit an application directly through the program provider, visit the University of Westminster's website at http://www.wmin.ac.uk.
Knowledgeable staff at the school will assist you with the application
process for direct enrollment in their program or in identifying a
suitable host institution as you pursue your interest in study
abroad. We wish you all the best in planning your study abroad.
Alma College students: If you're interested in obtaining more
information about this or any other off-campus study location, visit
Off-Campus Studies in the lower level of the Kehrl Library, next to the
Registrar's Office.
Why London?
London is the capital city of the moment. A city of parks, culture and commerce, it is packed full of world-renowned museums, theatres, famous landmarks and bustling street markets. Whatever you are looking for and wherever you are heading, it can be provided in London. It's cosmopolitian, exciting, and one of the safest capital cities in the world.
Behind the tourist facade are the hidden city of pubs, sandwich bars, cheap cafes, early morning commuting and nightclubs. Whether living in the comfortable suburb of Harrow or overlooking Madame Tussaud's, students become part of a truly cosmopolitian community and be in the heart of West End in a few minutes.
London Application Deadline
Applications for off-campus study in the summer or
fall semester are due by the second Friday of classes in February.
Applications for Off-Campus Study in the spring semester are due by the
second Friday of classes in September. Early applications are strongly
encouraged.
Program Dates, Fees, and Services
The University of Westminster is distinguished by its superb location in London, its diverse community and a celebrated history. Today there are almost 16,000 students from the UK and some 80 other countries studying at the undergraduate level. At the University of Westminster's West End campuses, you will be only a few minutes away from the Houses of Parliament and the BBC, the Stock Exchange and the British Library.
The University is composed of four different campuses: Cavendish, Harrow, Marylebone, and Regent. Each campus is home to several different schools. The Marylebone campus contains a school of business and environmental building. Cavendish campus is the home to schools of biosciences and computer science. Harrow Campus is home to the School of Communication and the Harrow School of Computer Science. The Regent campus contains the School of Social and Behavioral Science, the School of Law and the School of Languages.
Admission Requirements
The London program is open to undergraduate students of sophomore status and above or graduates who want to enroll for undergraduate credit. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a four-point scale or the equivalent to be considered for review. Final admission contingent upon acceptance to the University of Westminster as a visiting student.
Class Structure and Credits
A normal class load is approximately three-four classes (modules) per semester. In order to comply with the conditions of their immigration status, students enroll in 52.5-60 points according to the University's credit point system. A select few polylanguage modules are 7.5 Westminster credit points, while the majority of modules are awarded 15 credits, equivalent to a four-credit semester class in the U.S./five Alma College credits.
Students pre-approve up to eight modules for transfer to allow for scheduling conflicts. Modules are available online at www.wmin.ac.uk/international/modcat.htm.
Formal registration takes place at orientation during an appointment with an academic advisor. It is important for students to follow procedures to have courses pre-approved for transfer upon completion of the program.
Internships
An internship complements classroom learning, provides chances to participate actively in an international community, furnishes valuable career insights and provides academic credit. All internships provide substantive work. Unpaid internships are offered during both semesters or as a part of one semester during an academic year. Yearlong internships may be available. Internship participants enroll in two classes in addition to their internship. Specific placements vary from semester to semester and new placements are regularly added to the list. Internship placements are not confirmed until after arrival. The internship program is the same price as a semester cost.
Travel Documents
A passport is required for study abroad and must be valid at least 180 days beyond the end of the program. A visa is not required for entry into Britain, however an immigration certificate will be issued upon acceptance. Contact the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for more travel information at www.fco.gov.uk/travel.imm_visa.asp. Upon entering the UK, students must provide proof of full time study, and produce documentation as proof of meeting the costs of their stay.
Arrival Information
Students need to arrive in London on the beginning date of the program as indicated in the acceptance packet. This is the date housing becomes available. Instructions are provided on how to proceed from the airport to the student residences. For arrivals before the beginning date of the program, fees associated with housing and transportation from the airport are the student's responsibility. Students are advised to register with the International Student Advisor upon arrival.
Orientation
Orientation of both the city and the University of Westminster is conducted during the first week. Students meet with the International Student Advisor, who will answer any questions. The orientation also provides an introduction to university resources, organizations and faculty. University staff takes the time to introduce all students to the transportation, traditions and customs of one of the largest cities in Europe. There are various opportunities to meet with other students during formal receptions and parties.
Administrative Staff
Alma College staff is available in the event of an emergency 24 hours a day. Students can call 989.463.7055 to reach an OCS staff member. The International Student Advisor (ISA) is Ms. Kristy McPhee. Contact her at 44.(0)2079115000x3232/3240. The ISA provides visa and immigration advice and student support for international students.
Excursions
The international student advisor organizes a number of activities. Information is sent via e-mail after arrival. Experience local flavor by taking day trips to various destinations within and outside of the city. These activities are not included in the program cost.
Vacation
Personal travel can be done on weekends but should not interfere with class work. Easter vacation is in March. The vacation dates will be announced upon acceptance.
Extended vacation plans that do not fit into spring vacation should be conducted before or after the semester of study. Academic year Christmas vacation is from mid December to early January in addition to the spring vacation. Housing is provided during these vacation periods.
Computers/E-mail
Westminster has numerous computer lab locations on each campus that are Internet capable. Once registered, students have a username and password that allows access to personal accounts, e-mail, etc. at any of the sites on campus. A student ID is needed to gain access to computing facilities.
Transportation
Tube (subway) passes are included in the program cost, though short periods at the beginning and end of the program may not be covered. Either funds are distributed to students before departure, or Alma College will apply a reduction on student accounts.
London is a bustling, metropolitan area with several modes of efficient transportation. The tube runs extensively throughout London and is easy to utilize by consulting a tube map to determine the line to take.
There are two types of buses: the famous red, double-decker buses that have a conductor who collects fees, and single-decker buses that require a fee prior to entering.
Housing and Meals
The University of Westminster offers a choice of residence halls that are located at various points throughout London. All are self-catered, however there are dining halls on all major university sites. Each student is responsible for purchasing and preparing his/her own meals. All halls are equipped with washbasins in the rooms and bathroom and shower facilities on each floor. Kitchens provide cookers, microwaves and refrigerators. In resident halls there is usually a phone on each floor. Laundry facilities are also available. More information on housing is available online at www.wmin.ac.uk/international.
Telephones
Telephone rates are extremely expensive in Britain. Private telephones are less expensive than public telephones. It's worthwhile to look into deals that a phone company in the U.S. can provide while abroad. Students can make personal calls from public phones with phone cards purchased locally. Students might consider purchasing a mobile phone, which are reasonably priced and practical in Britain.
If family or friends wish to send correspondence, it is just a matter of giving them the mailing address once established. Housing addresses are made available approximately one month prior to departure. Airmail can take approximately two weeks to reach its destination.
Health Insurance
Limited health insurance is provided as a part of the program cost. It is recommended to keep existing
Alma Travel Agent
Airfare is not included in the cost of the program and all students
must purchase their own plane ticket. Students may purchase
airline tickets at rates below regular airline prices using the
International Student Identification Card provided with
the program. STA Travel Agency provides student discounts with the
card; view their website at www.statravel.com. Also
available for purchase at student rates are Eurail, Britrail, and other
country rail passes. Students may work with any travel agent to find
airfare. Travel Jems in
