In an age of global interdependence, the University works to ensure its students can acquire part of their education abroad. Students can explore their academic and professional interests in another part of the world while developing transferable skills for their future, such as cultural awareness, adaptability, independence, and, in many cases, proficiency in a world language. Credits and grades earned through Valpo-affiliated programs count towards graduation requirements and GPA, and a variety of opportunities enable students to spend a semester, academic year, or shorter terms such as spring break and summer in another country.
Students can choose from several program types, including 1) the Valpo Study Centers, 2) Direct enrollment at an exchange partner university, 3) Cooperative programs administered by a U.S.-based provider, 4) the Valparaiso International Engineering Programs (VIEP), or Enhanced International Business (EIB), and 5) Faculty-led, short-term programs or research during breaks. Credits and grades earned through Valpo-approved programs are treated as though they were earned on campus. While the course offerings available through these programs vary considerably, students may frequently satisfy Major, Minor, and/ or General Education Requirements through courses taken in these programs with careful planning and consultation with their academic advisor. Students should consult with department chairs and their academic advisor prior to participation in any program to verify that courses will satisfy certain requirements. General Education Requirements, which have in the past been fulfilled or partially fulfilled by courses taken through these programs, include the following: Fine Arts/Fine Arts-Literature, World Language, History/Philosophy, Social Science, and Religious Studies. Participation in any Valparaiso University semester or year-long study-abroad program fulfills the Cultural Diversity General Education Requirement or Christ College seminar credit.
Students considering study abroad should consult their academic advisor as well as the Office of International Programs - Study Abroad Programs (OIP - Study Abroad) early in their academic program to ensure the coherence and continuity of that program. Freshman year is not too early to begin thinking about studying abroad, and with careful planning, students can study abroad and complete their degree program on time.
Applications open early in the semester before the term abroad. The deadlines may vary. They are:
- Summer, Fall, and Academic Year: March 1
- Spring and Spring Break: October 1
Some programs do have early deadlines depending on required host applications or other requirements. It is important to double-check the individual page for the program(s) of interest to determine the official deadline. While students will not apply for their study abroad program until the semester before, they are encouraged to meet with the Study Abroad Coordinator, their academic advisor, and their financial aid advisor to begin planning as early as possible.
Study abroad programs have varying requirements for admission. All programs have a minimum cumulative GPA requirement, though some programs have flexibility for students who are close to the minimum and will be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis. Some programs have a minimum world language requirement, a minimum class standing, or other requirements for admission. Consult the program page and/or the Study Abroad Coordinator for information on admission requirements.
Most financial aid that students receive while attending Valparaiso University may be applied to the Valparaiso University Approved programs. Exceptions may include work-study and other on-campus aid, such as music, performance, or athletic scholarships, which are simply put on hold for the semester off-campus. Please meet with your financial aid advisor for details on your specific award and how it will apply to study abroad. For approved programs, students will pay regular tuition and general fees on campus. This will be posted to the Student Account just as it would for a student staying on campus. Depending on the program, room and board, a Center Fee, or other costs may be assessed through their Student Account as well, though these may be paid directly to the program provider or institution. Each program page has an Estimated Budget Sheet for the current terms that will give an estimate of overall cost, including expenses paid to the Student Account, those paid directly to the program provider, and general out-of-pocket expenses. The Study Abroad Coordinator can go over cost information in detail with interested students.
Students who choose to participate in programs not on the approved list, at their own expense, should consult with the Director of Study Abroad Programs. When students decide on a program, it is necessary to obtain the prior approval of an academic advisor, the Director of Study Abroad Programs, and the dean of the college in order to ensure in advance that the credit for courses taken abroad will transfer to Valparaiso University. If participating in a semester program, the student will need to submit a Leave of Absence. Also, the student should meet with a member of the Office of Financial Aid. Although Valparaiso University grants/scholarships are not available for non-Valparaiso University programs, Federal, Indiana, and private scholarships and loans are. You should continue to file your FAFSA by the state deadline each year. The Office of Financial Aid will discuss your plans with you and answer questions regarding aid for your time off campus, as well as implications for outstanding student loans.
All official program information, estimated budgets, requirements, and deadlines are located on the study abroad website (valpo.edu/academics/study-abroad) and can be found by clicking on “Explore Programs & Apply.”
Valpo Study Centers
Cambridge, England
Coordinated by a permanent on-site coordinator, the Cambridge Study Center provides an ideal setting for students to integrate their academic work with the rich heritage of Britain. Students live in facilities provided by Westfield House, choose from a wide variety of courses as determined by their individual needs, and participate in at least one group excursion to various historical regions of Britain.
This program is offered in either the fall semester, the spring semester, or for the full year.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750 are required.
Program Curriculum
This program offers an exciting array of courses through a combination of offerings from our partners at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) and Westfield House.
All students take GS 390 - British Life and Culture for one credit, instructed by Westfield House, and at least three other three-credit courses offered at Westfield House. Westfield House has course offerings taught both in-house and in the form of hybrid courses, where students will attend lectures through Cambridge University and conduct their tutorial/discussion through Westfield House. Hybrid courses with Cambridge University lectures are open to students with at least a 3.000 cumulative GPA. Students are welcome to take any courses offered, provided they meet any Westfield House requirements, such as prerequisites. Students will need to get approval from the appropriate department chairs with regard to how the courses will fit into their degree program and fulfill requirements.
The courses offered through Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) are listed on their website (linked through the Valpo program page). Students are welcome to take any courses offered, provided they meet any ARU requirements, such as prerequisites. Students are not permitted to take more than 15 credits (equivalent to one 3-credit course), 30 with permission. Students will need to get approval from the appropriate department chairs with regard to how the courses will fit into their degree program and fulfill requirements.
Reutlingen, Germany
The Reutlingen Study Center, located on the campus of its partner institution, the Hochschule Reutlingen, is coordinated by the Reutlingen International Office. All students will take a German language course. They may then choose between the Center courses offered or courses offered through Reutlingen University per their individual needs. Excursions, as well as opportunities for independent exploration and personal travel, complement the in-class learning and encourage the development of a more global perspective. Internship opportunities with German professionals are also a possibility for students with higher German language levels. International Business majors participating in the Enhanced International Business in German (EIB - German) program will enroll in coursework at the Valpo Study Center in Reutlingen, along with business electives in German at the Hochschule Reutlingen. Engineering majors participating in the Valparaiso International Engineering Program - Germany (VIEP - German) will also enroll in coursework at the Valpo Study Center, as well as electives in German at the Hochschule Reutlingen.
The program is available in the fall semester, spring semester, or for the full year. The fall semester is typically advised for engineering students. EIB and VIEP are year-long programs.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing with a grade point average of 2.750 is required; no prior knowledge of German is required.
Program Curriculum
All students take a German language course and will be placed into a German language course that matches their level of proficiency, and may apply toward the General Education World Language Requirement. GER 204 may apply toward a German minor. Other courses may be used to fulfill general education requirements. Most other courses are provided by the Hochschule in engineering and business. Many of those courses are already pre-approved. Students are welcome to take any courses offered through Reutlingen University, provided they meet any Reutlingen University requirements, such as prerequisites. Students will need to get approval from the appropriate department chairs with regard to how the courses will fit into their degree program and fulfill requirements.
San José, Costa Rica
The Valpo Study Center in Costa Rica runs in partnership with The Praxis Center. San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a city of about 1.5 million people located in the Central Valley of Costa Rica. It is a bustling modern city surrounded by mountains, about 2 hours from the Pacific Coast and 4 hours from the Atlantic Coast. Students will study the Spanish language and the history of Costa Rica during the first half of the term. In the second half of the term, students can either enroll in a part-time internship and an elective course, or choose to enroll in elective courses without the internship. Classes are held on various local university campuses and The Praxis Center, which are all accessible by public transportation.
The program is available in the fall semester, spring semester, or for the full year.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750 are required. Two semesters of college-level Spanish are recommended but not required to participate. Students with fewer than two semesters of college-level Spanish will be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis.
Program Curriculum
Students are placed in language courses according to a placement exam given at the University of Costa Rica. The Spanish section of the Department of World Languages and Cultures will award credit for these language classes. All students will enroll in WLC 337 - Ethnology and History of Costa Rica . WLC 335 - Perspectives on Healthcare Costa Rica is an optional elective during the second half of the term. Students are also able to complete a World Languages and Cultures Internship during the second half of the term. For those with higher language proficiency, students can take additional coursework from a variety of local universities and The Praxis Center. Students will need to get approval from the appropriate department chairs with regard to how the courses will fit into their degree program and fulfill requirements.
Exchange Programs
Chile - Universidad Viña del Mar
Students whose program interests include both Spanish and Latin American studies may apply to participate in the exchange program with the Universidad Viña del Mar, located on the Pacific Coast next to Valparaíso, Chile. Participants live with a host family and attend classes in Viña del Mar. Students may also choose to find housing without a host family.
The program is available in the fall semester, spring semester, or for the full year.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 3.000 or better are required. Intermediate Spanish skills (SPAN 204 or its equivalent, minimally) and approval of the Spanish section are required.
Program Curriculum
Students enroll in Spanish courses offered by the Universidad Viña del Mar, as well as other courses related to the culture and history of Chile and Latin America. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Viña del Mar.
France - Excelia La Rochelle International School
Valparaiso University has established an exchange partnership with Excelia La Rochelle International School (Groupe Sup de Co) in La Rochelle on France’s Atlantic Coast. It offers a special opportunity for students to study Business Administration, Marketing, International Business, and Communication, and develop their French language skills. Valparaiso University students at La Rochelle may take some courses in English. Valparaiso University students may choose to live with a host family, in a shared apartment, or in a studio apartment near the university.
The program is available in the fall and spring semesters.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required. FREN 203 or the equivalent is required for the French track; those with lower French can take courses in English.
Program Curriculum
Students take a course in French as a World Language as well as appropriate courses in various areas of business administration, which may include marketing, intercultural management, or international logistics. Students will either take courses in French or English.
Germany - Hochschule für Kirchenmusik, Rottenburg
Students whose program interests include both German and music may apply to participate in the exchange with the Hochschule für Kirchenmusik in Rottenburg am Neckar.
The program is available in the spring semester only.
Program Requirements
Junior standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required. This program requires advanced German skills (GER 220 or its equivalent, minimally), advanced organ skills, and approval of the German section and the Music Department.
Program Curriculum
Students enroll in courses offered by the Hochschule, all of which are related directly to music, and for studio lessons in organ. All courses are conducted in German.
Germany - Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen
Through a special exchange agreement with the Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen, a limited number of Valparaiso University students may study there each year.
This program is available for the full academic year only.
Program Requirements
Junior standing and a grade point average of 3.000 or better are required. GER 204 or the equivalent and approval of the German section are required.
Program Curriculum
The Language and Orientation Program, a five-week intensive course before the beginning of the German academic year, is conducted by the Universität Tübingen for foreign students. During the academic year, students may choose courses from among the varying offerings at the Universität Tübingen.
The five-week Language and Orientation Program allows students to earn three elective credits toward the German language requirements. Other courses may apply toward certain General Education and/or major or minor requirements; students must consult with relevant department chairs before departure for Tübingen. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Tübingen.
Japan - Kansai Gaidai University
Valparaiso University has an exciting exchange program with Kansai Gaidai University, located in the culturally rich area between Osaka and Kyoto. The program offers Japanese language instruction and a number of East Asian studies courses taught in English, including topics in business, art, economics, and history. Students have the option of living with host families or in dormitories located on campus.
The program is available in the fall semester, spring semester, or for the full year.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required.
Program Curriculum
Students are placed in Japanese language classes according to proficiency tests given during orientation in Japan. Students are required to study the language but are free to choose among the courses offered as long as full-time status is maintained. Courses taken in Japan may apply toward certain General Education Requirements or fulfill major and/or minor requirements. The course offerings vary from semester to semester, so students must consult their academic advisors and to match their course selections with requirements. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Hirakata.
México - Universidad de las Américas-Puebla
Valparaiso University students may study at the Universidad de las Américas Puebla (UDLAP) in Puebla, Mexico. Cholula, a small town rich in pre-Hispanic history, is a short bus ride from Puebla, a modern city of two million people located about 100 miles southeast of Mexico City. Surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped mountains, the region offers a wide variety of cultural experiences through which students come to understand this country, which is both ancient and modern, developing and industrialized, relaxed and bustling. Students live with Mexican suitemates in on-campus residence halls.
The program is available in the fall semester, spring semester, or for the full year.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required. SPAN 203 is also required.
Program Curriculum
Based on a placement exam, students enroll in Spanish language, literature, business, and civilization courses for international students, offered at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. Students with solid language skills may enroll in one or more courses from the regular curriculum for Mexican students.
Spain - Universidad de Zaragoza
Universidad de Zaragoza offers students the opportunity to enroll in Spanish courses at the Center of Spanish as a World Language at the Universidad de Zaragoza, as well as take one or two additional courses from the university at large. Zaragoza is a very rich city in art history and offers students the opportunity to travel easily around Spain and Europe. Students live with a host family or students may search for an apartment.
The program is available in the fall semester, spring semester, or for the full year.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required. Intermediate Spanish skills (SPAN 204 or its equivalent, minimally) and approval of the Spanish section are required.
Program Curriculum
Students enroll in Spanish courses offered by the Universidad de Zaragoza faculty members, as well as other courses with a variety of topics. In addition, students have the option of enrolling directly into the Universidad de Zaragoza’s business and engineering schools, taking such coursework in Spanish. Engineering majors participating in the Valparaiso International Engineering Program - Spanish, will enroll at the Universidad de Zaragoza.
Valparaiso International Engineering Program (VIEP)
- VIEP (in French, German, or Spanish): Students complete one of the Engineering majors and at least a minor in French, French Studies, German, or Spanish. Students are encouraged to begin their study of language as early as possible. At minimum, they must complete the 204-level on Valpo’s campus prior to studying abroad, but a higher level is strongly encouraged. They also study abroad for at least one semester in the University’s Study Abroad Program in Compiègne, France (for French or French Studies minors), Reutlingen, Germany (for German minors), or Zaragoza, Spain (for Spanish minors or majors).
- VIEP Plus: Students in VIEP Plus meet all of the requirements for VIEP and take additional credits beyond the minor in the target language (or complete a major in Spanish or an Individualized Major in French Studies or German); and also spend an additional semester abroad working in a cooperative education placement related to international engineering. Completion requires 5 years. Students typically study abroad during Year 4. Those planning to spend Year 5 abroad should consult early with the Registrar’s Office, the Office of Financial Aid, their Engineering advisor, and relevant language faculty to ensure they maintain degree-seeking status for financial aid purposes. See the language-specific descriptions of the VIEP Plus program below.
German: Completion requires five years. Students complete one 3- or 4-credit German course per semester beginning, at the latest, in the third semester. In Year 4 or Year 5, students participate in the University’s study abroad program at the Hochschule Reutlingen, Germany, in the fall semester, and work in a cooperative education placement in Germany during the spring semester and the ensuing summer. Students who have completed all German minor requirements only need to complete one German course during their final year on the Valparaiso University campus.
Spanish: Completion requires five years. Students participate in the University´s study abroad program at the Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain in Year 4 or Year 5 and complete a cooperative education placement in Spain in the summer or in a semester after studying abroad. Students must take at least 2 to 5 credits of Spanish beyond the requirements of the Spanish minor, or complete the Spanish major.
French: Completion requires five years. Year 4 or Year 5 is spent studying abroad at the Université de Technologie de Compiègne during the fall semester and completing a cooperative education placement in France (or another Francophone country) during spring semester. Students must take at least 3 to 4 credits of French beyond the requirements of the French or French Studies minor, or complete an Individualized Major in French Studies. They may count 3-4 credits of French taken at Compiègne towards the minor.
Affiliate Programs
Granada, Spain - Best Steps Abroad
Best Steps Abroad (BSA) is a language immersion program that combines academic courses with local socio-cultural immersion activities. BSA’s goal is to facilitate students’ acquisition and reinforcement of Spanish language and culture while supporting them in their own personal journey during this experience. BSA has its offices in Granada, a modern city at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains of Spain, with a vast Muslim heritage represented by the Alhambra. It is a melting pot of cultures due to its historical background and the University of Granada students.
This program is available during the summer, fall, and spring semesters.
Program Requirements
Students with sophomore standing with a minimum GPA of 2.500 are eligible to apply. There is no language requirement to participate.
Program Curriculum
Through the University of Granada’s Modern Languages Center, they offer courses for students from beginner to advanced levels. Students will take an online placement test that will determine the level of Spanish language they have. Upon arrival, students take an Intensive Spanish Language course that will prepare them to familiarize with the classes and professors of the university and the culture of Granada. After this intensive course, they will start their regular semester classes, participating in the different programs. These can be: Hispanic Studies program, Language and Culture, Internship program, and Intensive Spanish Program.
Budapest, Hungary - Budapest Semesters in Mathematics
In cooperation with Budapest Semesters in Mathematics (BSM) or Summer@BSME, Valparaiso University offers the opportunity for select mathematics majors to study advanced coursework from leading Hungarian scholars. Students spend part of their summer in a 6-week program located in Budapest, Hungary. Budapest, a city of about two million, has a long tradition of mathematical scholarship and is home to eleven universities. Students live in a furnished apartment with other BSM students.
This program is only available during the summer semesters.
Program Requirements
Sophomore status and one semester of Real Analysis or Abstract Algebra by the start of the program. No prior knowledge of Hungarian is required. All courses are conducted in English.
Program Curriculum
Students complete five weeks of courses and one week of field experience, and credit is awarded by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. An intensive Hungarian course is available before the beginning of the program and includes tours of the city and practical living skills. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Budapest.
Milan, Italy - IES Abroad
From ancient Ambrosian chants to cutting-edge multimedia installations, Italy has always been at the forefront of musical innovation. As a music student in Milan, you have the opportunity to work with world-class musicians, soak up the local music scene, perform at a variety of venues, and attend a wide range of performances. Milan features many highly-qualified local instructors for both voice and instrumental performance, composition and theory, to enrich your learning experience. Also, you may use concert venues for recitals, and attend concerts and rehearsals of professional performance organizations such as La Scala, Milano Classica, La Verdi Symphonic Choir & Orchestra, and Italian musical productions.
The program is available during the fall and spring semesters.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750 are required. Music major or minor preferred; in the case of non-music majors/minors with serious experience, some exceptions can be considered.
Program Curriculum
The Milan program focuses on Music: Voice, Composition, & Instrumental. While in Milan, you are placed in classes and ensembles to enhance not just what you learn, but how you learn it, and provide you with new perspectives each day in class. You must take 15-19 credits per semester, and most courses are worth 3 credits. Language courses are taught in Italian, and all other courses are taught in English or Italian. An Italian language course is required, but all other courses are yours to choose. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Milan.
Nantes, France - IES Abroad
Nantes is well-known for being a charming city in which to live in France, and it’s quite easy to see why. Home to many young professionals and students, there are plenty of new friends to make and an active nightlife waiting for you in Nantes. This program enjoys a close relationship with the Université de Nantes. You have access to the school’s libraries, computer labs, cafeterias, and sports facilities, and are welcome to join student clubs and other social and sports organizations. You also have many opportunities to enroll in university courses. IES Abroad courses are taught in French by native French faculty, many of whom are professors at the Université de Nantes. You select from IES Abroad language and area studies courses, and can add a teaching internship and university courses to complete your schedule.
The program is available during the fall and spring semesters.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing, a grade point average of 2.750, and at least four semesters of college-level French are required. Students must be enrolled in a French course within the year prior to the program start date.
Program Curriculum
The Nantes French Language Immersion & Area Studies Program has two important goals: to improve your written and verbal proficiency in French through language and area studies courses and to introduce you to contemporary France and its role in the European Union. A beautiful and bike-friendly city on the Loire River, Nantes offers wonderful food, outdoor spaces, and stunning modern and classic architecture. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Nantes.
Southern Africa - Augsburg College
As a result of a partnership with the Center for Global Education at Augsburg College, Valparaiso University offers a challenging study-abroad program in South Africa and Namibia. Valparaiso University students live together with other students from the United States, as well as with families in Soweto, South Africa; in Windhoek, Namibia; and in a rural Namibian community.
The program is available during the fall and spring semesters.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required. Enrollment is limited to twenty-four students each semester, drawn from colleges and universities throughout the United States. All courses are conducted in English.
Program Curriculum
The theme for both semesters is Decolonizing the Mind: Racial and Environmental Justice, and the offerings include courses in the following disciplines: political science, religion, history, wellness, and environmental science. An internship is also possible. Much of the coursework involves encounters with the people and culture outside the walls of the study center, thus making the semester an outstanding learning experience. Students may participate during either semester. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in South Africa.
Limerick, Ireland - CIS Abroad
Study at the University of Limerick in Ireland through CIS Abroad. This program offers state-of-the-art facilities, great housing, and classes with Irish students so you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Explore castles, stroll along the Shannon River, and learn the fiddle during your semester abroad in Ireland!
The program is available during the fall and spring semesters.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.900 are required.
Program Curriculum
Students may choose from a wide array of courses available through the University of Limerick. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Limerick.
Newcastle, Australia - CIS Abroad
Study at the University of Newcastle in Australia through CIS Abroad. The University of Newcastle has a stunning, ecologically sustainable campus where students can experience the true Aussie lifestyle.
The program is available during the fall and spring semesters.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a cumulative GPA of 2.500 are required.
Program Curriculum
Students may choose from a wide array of courses available through the University of Newcastle. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Newcastle.
Seoul, South Korea - Asia Exchange
Study at Hankuk University in South Korea through Asia Exchange. Hankuk University of Foreign Studies is in Korea’s stunning capital city, Seoul. The campus has soccer and tennis fields, a gym, and a community center for students. The community center includes restaurants and places to meet other students and spend time outside the classes. Students can also participate in the many students’ clubs available at the Global Campus.
The program is available during the fall and spring semesters.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750 are required.
Program Curriculum
Study economics, engineering, languages, and much more at HUFS and benefit from the high academic standards of the Korean higher education system. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in South Korea.
Taipei, Taiwan - Asia Exchange
Study at Shih Chien in Taiwan through Asia Exchange. Live in one of the safest and most open-minded countries in the world and learn more about Taiwan’s unique mix of ancient traditions and modern progress. The campus has many facilities for different kinds of sports (including a pool, a gym, and sports fields), which are at your disposal with your local student card. If you’re up for picking up a new hobby, you can try Chinese opera, calligraphy, painting, and martial arts.
The program is available during the fall and spring semesters.
Program Requirements
Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750 are required.
Program Curriculum
Study business, management, Mandarin Chinese, or human ecology at an esteemed university in the heart of magnificent Taipei. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Taiwan.
Faculty-led, Short-term Programs
Valparaiso University offers various short-term, faculty-led programs or research abroad for academic credit, which generally take place during the spring recess or during the summer. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities. Faculty-led programs are proposed and run in partnership with the faculty and academic departments. The official list of Spring Break programs is typically released the August prior, and summer programs are typically released the January prior. Consult the Office of International Programs - Study Abroad Programs website and VIA for more information.
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