Off-Campus Studies Programs

In cooperation with institutions of higher education overseas, Alma College offers a variety of international study programs. Credit earned in these programs counts as residence credit. Off-campus study during the Fall or Winter term in an approved Alma College study abroad program meets the College's S requirement. A maximum of 16 credits in language studies per term will count toward a language major or minor.

Internship Opportunities. All students are encouraged to consider seeking a practicum or internship during their years at Alma. Whether paid or unpaid, credit-bearing or not, such opportunities provide students with valuable experience which assists them in clarifying career interests as well as obtaining employment after graduation. While some academic departments assist students with identifying practicum sites, many opportunities are obtained by students with the assistance of the Academic and Career Planning office staff. However, to receive credit for an experiential learning opportunity, students must obtain sponsorship from an academic department, demonstrate proficiency in the appropriate field and have a sound academic background. The student and the sponsoring faculty member establish learning objectives related to the experience. Supplemental reading, research and journal writing are some of the activities students engage in while on the job.

Overseas internships and service learning. A variety of opportunities are available in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. Language proficiency may be required.

For eligibility, requirements, detailed program information and application materials, consult the Academic and Career Planning office.

Overseas/Off-Campus Financial Aid. Alma College aid can be used in overseas/off-campus Alma College-approved programs only by students who are U.S. citizens and who reside in the U.S. or a U.S. territory.

Alma College financial aid can be used for one semester (not Spring Term) in an approved overseas/off-campus program but not for an internship. (Federal or state aid is available for more than one term of overseas/off-campus course work.) Exceptions are for Modern Language majors, who may study for a full academic year in one overseas language program, and students with a double major in two languages, who can receive aid for up to two terms if the programs are needed to fulfill overseas language requirements.

Alma College Program of Studies in Australia. At the University of Wollongong, undergraduate courses are available to students who meet the necessary prerequisites. Students discover the many opportunities available in a city that is surrounded by national parks yet within an hour of Sydney. The University of Wollongong determines final acceptance into its semester programs.

Alma College Program of Studies in Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru. Students can enroll in intensive Spanish language courses in Sucre, Bolivia; Quito, Ecuador; and Cusco, Peru, at the Academia Latinoamericana. A wide range of courses in Latin American literature, culture and history are also available, as are internships and service-learning placements. Students can arrange their semester or summer courses to study at all three locations.

Alma College Program of Studies in England. Alma College offers two programs of study in England, one at Regent's College and one at the University of Westminster. While both programs are located in the heart of London and offer a wide range of courses, their academic and accommodation differences set them apart. Regent's College and the University of Westminster determine final acceptance into their semester programs.

Alma College Program of Studies in France. In cooperation with the Alliance Française and other organizations, Alma offers intensive language instruction in France. Students at beginning to advanced French language levels can attend semester or summer programs.

Alma College Program of Studies in Germany. In cooperation with Europa-Kolleg in Kassel, Germany, students with two semesters of college-level German can enroll in intensive language instruction for semester programs. No language requirement is necessary for participation in summer programs. Afternoon excursions are part of the Europa-Kolleg's cultural program.

Alma College Program of Studies in Ireland. Through its affiliation with the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities, Alma College can nominate two students for study at the University of Ulster or Queen's University in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Studies in the Republic of Ireland are possible through this program as well. Although students in any field may apply, the program encourages an interest in Irish history and culture.

Alma College Program of Studies in New Zealand. The University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand, offers courses in many disciplines. Students living in this city by the sea can visit the "southern" Alps and learn about the Maori, the "Kiwis," and many things unique to this country. The University of Otago determines final acceptance into the semester programs.

Alma College Program of Studies in Scotland. In cooperation with the University of Aberdeen, Alma College offers a program of studies in the natural and social sciences, and the humanities. The University of Aberdeen determines final acceptance into the semester programs.

Alma College Program of Studies in South Korea. Alma College has a student exchange agreement with Ewha Womans University in Seoul, South Korea. Alma College students may also attend a student exchange program at Sogang University in Seoul.

Alma College/MCSA Consortium. Through the Midwest Consortium for Study Abroad, Alma College students may study in Vienna, Austria; Macerata, Italy; or Segovia, Spain. The programs in Austria and Italy are intended for non-language majors and offer courses taught in English in areas such as history, literature, economics, art and music. Language courses are mandatory for all students during their semester abroad. Two years of college-level Spanish are required for the Segovia program. The MCSA programs offer numerous exciting excursions.

Alma India Program. The program in Kerala, India enables students to connect their academic work in India with their ongoing Alma programs, while combining service learning work at the Mathen Mappilai Memorial School and other local organizations. Visiting Professor of Religious Studies at Alma College Bishop Thomas Mar Makarios is the patron and president of the school. Alma College students return to Alma sharing their semester experiences with the Alma community.

Spring Term Off-Campus Study. Each Spring Term, Alma College faculty members offer a variety of courses in international and domestic settings. Recent faculty-led international courses took place in Argentina, Australia, Austria, China, Ecuador, England, Germany, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Poland, Russia, Scotland and Spain. Language study is offered in France, Germany and Latin America. Domestic offerings have included various areas in Michigan and Colorado; the cities of Chicago, Key West, New York City, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.; and the U.S.-Mexico border.

Other Foreign Study Programs. Students with academic interests that cannot be met by any of the above programs should consult the Academic and Career Planning office about programs at other institutions whose courses transfer to Alma College.