May 11, 2024  
2023-2024 General Catalog 
    
2023-2024 General Catalog

Global Education Programs



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 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 Theology. 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 Global Education 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 remain the same each year. 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, although some programs have flexibility for students that 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 assure 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 Financial Aid Office. 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 Financial Aid Office 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/globaleducation) 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 up to eighteen students per semester to integrate their academic work with the rich heritage of Britain. Students live in facilities provided by the University, 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 or spring semester. It is possible to study for a year with approval.

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 offered through 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 one other three-credit course offered at Westfield House.

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 30 credits at ARU, 45 credits 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.

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.

Reutlingen, Germany

The Reutlingen Study Center, located on the campus of its partner institution, the Hochschule Reutlingen, is coordinated by an onsite coordinator with support from 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 in Business or Engineering 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.

This program is available in either the fall or spring semester, but the fall semester is offered to Engineering and Business students, and the spring is offered to Business and Arts & Sciences students. It is possible to study for a year with approval.  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 GER 101  or GER 204  based on their level. GER 101  and GER 204  may apply toward the General Education World Language Requirement. GER 204  may apply toward a German major or minor or International Economics and Cultural Affairs major. 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 the campus of the University of Costa Rica, the Universidad Bíblica Latinoamericana, and The Praxis Center, which are all located on the east side of town and easily accessible by public bus.

This program is offered in either the fall or spring semester. It is possible to study for a year with approval.

Program Requirements

Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750 are required. Two semesters of college-level Spanish is 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 Hlth Care 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. The following courses are offered:

For those with higher language proficiency, students can take additional coursework from the University of Costa Rica’s Spanish language program, the Universidad Bíblica Latinoamericana 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.

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.

England - Anglia Ruskin University

A one-on-one exchange agreement makes it possible for Valparaiso University students to study for a semester or a full year at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge. Students pay tuition and General Fee to Valparaiso University and pay room and board costs in Cambridge.

Program Requirements

Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required.

Program Curriculum

Students can select courses from the full range of undergraduate programs in Liberal Arts, Science, and Business. For additional information, consult the program advisor and the program page on the Study Abroad website.  The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Cambridge.

France - La Rochelle International Business School

Valparaiso University has established an exchange partnership with La Rochelle Business School (Groupe Sup de Co) in La Rochelle on France’s Atlantic coast. It offers a special opportunity for students to study Business Administration and develop their French language skills in this private business school of 1,600 students. La Rochelle Business School students also come to Valparaiso for a semester of study. Valparaiso University students at La Rochelle Business School 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.

Program Requirements

Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required. FREN 203  or the equivalent is required. College of Business students must have completed the Freshman/Sophomore core classes. Approval of the dean of the College of Business and the French section are also required.

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. Some courses may be taken in English. Normally, students will register for a total of about 14 credits. All credits are considered Valparaiso University credits and count toward College of Business electives or requirements, a French major or minor, general education requirements, or elective credits.

Germany - Hochschule für Kirchenmusik, Rottenburg

Students whose program interests include both German and music may apply to participate in the one-on-one 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 Department of Music.

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. All courses are considered to be Valparaiso University courses and will count toward the music major, General Education requirements, or elective credit.

Germany - Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen

Through a special one-on-one student exchange agreement with the Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen, a limited number of Valparaiso University students may study there each year.

Program Requirements

Junior standing and a grade point average of 3.000 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 major or minor 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. This program is available for the full academic year only.  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. Students pay all fees, including room, meal plan, tuition, and general fee to Valparaiso University. 

This program is offered in either the fall or spring semester.

Program Requirements

Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required. Two semesters of college Japanese are recommended but not required. References from academic advisors and professors are also needed, as well as permission from the Director of Study Abroad Programs.

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 in Asian Studies or International Economics and Cultural Affairs. The course offerings vary from semester to semester, so students must consult their academic advisors and the appropriate bulletins 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 fall semester, spring semester, or the entire year 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.

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. Past offerings taught in Spanish include courses in Art, Psychology, and Political Science. Courses taught in English have included the areas of Economics and Political Science.

Courses may apply toward the Spanish major or minor, or certain General Education Requirements, including Social Science, Humanities: Fine Art, World Language, and/or Cultural Diversity. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Puebla.

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.

This program is offered in either the fall or spring semester. It is possible to study for a year with approval.

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 focusing on history, literature, history of art, and society, among others. 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. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Zaragoza.

Valparaiso International Engineering Program

VIEP-French: Université de Technology de Compiègne

VIEP-French is a five-year program that leads to a degree in one of six engineering disciplines (bioengineering, civil, computer, electrical, environmental, or mechanical) and a major or minor in French. Students spend the fourth year abroad, enrolling in several courses in the fall term at the Université de Technology de Compiègne (UTC) near Paris, France. They then spend the spring semester in a co-op work experience in France. Compiègne is an historic city about 50 miles northeast of Paris.

Program Requirements

Students must be enrolled and in good standing in the VIEP - French program. Approval of the VIEP - French directors is required. See the VIEP description on the College of Engineering  page.

Program Curriculum

Courses to be taken at UTC are chosen in consultation with the student’s College of Engineering advisor and will include engineering courses as well as a course in French as a World Language. All courses are considered to be Valparaiso University credits and will count toward the student’s engineering major and French major or minor.

VIEP-German: Hochschule Reutlingen

VIEP-German is a five-year program that leads to a degree in one of six engineering disciplines (bioengineering, civil, computer, electrical, environmental, or mechanical) and a major or minor in German. Students spend the fourth year abroad, enrolling in several courses in the fall term at the Valpo Study Center in Reutlingen and a technical course in German at the Hochschule Reutlingen. Students then work for a German company or research laboratory in the spring semester and summer for a co-op placement. Students live in campus housing for the fall term, and many stay in Reutlingen for the co-op placement, although some students may prefer to seek a position farther away.

Program Requirements

Students must be enrolled and in good standing in the VIEP-German program. Approval of the VIEP-German directors is required. See the VIEP description on the College of Engineering  page.

Program Curriculum

Courses to be taken at the Hochschule Reutlingen are chosen in consultation with the student’s College of Engineering advisor and will include engineering courses as well as a course in German as a World Language. All courses are considered to be Valparaiso University credits and will count toward the student’s engineering major and German major or minor.

VIEP-Spanish: Universidad de Zaragoza

VIEP-Spanish is a five-year program that leads to a degree in one of six engineering disciplines (bioengineering, civil, computer, electrical, environmental, or mechanical) and a major or minor in Spanish. Students spend the fourth year abroad, enrolling in several courses in engineering, math or science, taught in Spanish, during the fall term at the Universidad de Zaragoza. Students will have an opportunity to take a two-week intensive Spanish language course before the start of the semester. In the spring, students work for a Spanish company or research laboratory either in Zaragoza or elsewhere. Students receive personalized assistance in housing, course selection, and more from the School of Engineering and Architecture’s International Office. Students are encouraged to live with a host family but can also live in a shared apartment with other university students.

Program Requirements

Students must be enrolled and in good standing in the VIEP-Spanish program. Approval of the VIEP-Spanish directors is required. See the VIEP description on the College of Engineering  page.

Program Curriculum

Courses to be taken at the Universidad de Zaragoza are chosen in consultation with the student’s College of Engineering advisor and will include engineering courses as well as a course in Spanish as a World Language. All courses are considered to be Valparaiso University credits and will count toward the student’s engineering major and Spanish major or minor.

Affiliate Programs

Athens, Greece - College Year in Athens

Valparaiso University has a study-abroad option in Greece through the College Year in Athens program. College Year in Athens is an independent study-abroad program offering college-level courses in Ancient Greek Civilization. Enjoying an excellent reputation among North American colleges, College Year in Athens enrolls approximately one hundred students per semester.

Program Requirements

Students in good academic standing with a minimum GPA of 3.000 are eligible to apply. There is no language requirement to participate.

Program Curriculum

Students choose from a wide variety of courses dealing with the classical world. These courses, which represent such disciplines as Archaeology and Art, Classical Languages and Literature, History, Philosophy, Politics, and Religion, may count towards a major or minor in Classics with the approval of the chair of the Department of World Languages and Cultures. Normally four courses constitute full-time study. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Athens.

Granada, Spain - Best Steps Abroad

Best Steps Abroad (BSA) is a Language Immersion program for undergraduate and graduate students 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 to the University of Granada students.

Program Requirements

Students in good academic 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, we 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. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Granada.

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.

Program Requirements

Students must have at least sophomore status, be in good academic standing, and have completed 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.

Taipei, Taiwan - CET Academic Programs

Live in tropical Taipei and explore its many parks, markets, restaurants, and museums. This is a well-rounded program for students looking for a full experience and independence in study abroad. Taiwan is many things at once: It is a major world economy, a key player in the world’s high-tech industry, a little league baseball powerhouse, and a thriving democracy where economic, political, and journalistic freedoms are sacred. Taiwan is distinctly Taiwanese, but at the same time obviously Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian. It is an island, but it is also home to some of the most formidable mountains in Asia. Its tea is world-famous, but small independently-owned coffee shops are ubiquitous. It is a paradise to nature lovers, cyclists, surfers, foodies, environmentalists, birders, music lovers, and philosophers, and activists everywhere.

Program Requirements

Good academic standing and a grade point average of 3.000 are required.

Program Curriculum

With CET Taiwan, you don’t have to choose between intensive language instruction and a fulfilling internship experience. Take intensive Chinese language classes at the Chinese Language Division of National Taiwan University. Intern at civil service offices, technology companies, arts organizations, consulting firms, or any other field in which you are interested. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Taipei.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands - IES Abroad

As a Music student, you’ll flourish in the thriving arts environment of Amsterdam, a city known for its ability to embrace expressions of the human spirit. Enrolling in the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, the largest and most diverse music conservatory in the Netherlands, integrates you fully into a specialized institution where you study with other students who are dedicated to the study of music. If you wish to study at the CvA, you should be a strong and independent Performance, Composition, or Theory major with the motivation and intention to become a professional musician, music scholar, or composer.

Program Requirements

Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750 are required.

Program Curriculum

The vast majority of courses at the CvA are taught in English. In close consultation with our staff, you establish a personalized, full-time course of study that includes applied and theoretical aspects of music study with electives and optional courses. The mandatory practical component of the curriculum is a combination of one-on-one and small-group instruction. Study includes highly-individualized lessons with a tutor and participation in an extensive chamber music and ensemble program, and culminates in final performances. This program is available for the fall or spring semester, or the academic year with approval.  The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Amsterdam.

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.

Program Requirements

Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750 are required.

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. This program is available for the fall or spring semester, or the academic year with approval.  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 for enrolling 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.

Program Requirements

Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750, and at least four semesters of college-level French are required.

Program Curriculum

Our 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. This program is available for the fall or spring semester or the academic year with approval.  The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Nantes.

Vienna, Austria - IES Abroad

Home to an astounding number of legendary composers-from Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven to Brahms, Mahler, and Schoenberg-Vienna maintains an incredible richness of musical culture to this day. The world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, the Musikverein, and the Staatsoper are just a few of the many leading institutions that help make Vienna a true “city of music”-and make it the perfect location for an engaging study of Music History and Performance. This program is unique because it offers a variety of features and conveniences for you as an IES Abroad Music student, including private lessons, new practice rooms, instrument storage, local instrument rental, and our Music Performance Workshop.

Program Requirements

Sophomore standing and a grade point average of 2.750 are required.

Program Curriculum

The IES Abroad Vienna Music Program is ideal for students majoring or minoring in Music and offers you the opportunity to participate in a wide selection of courses focusing on Music and European culture and society. If you have advanced German language skills, you can also enroll in courses at the Universität Wien where you can experience the Austrian educational system first-hand. This program is available for the fall or spring semester. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Vienna.

Paris Internship Program - Boston University

Students of French may also choose to participate in a study abroad and internship program in Paris, administered by Boston University.

Program Requirements

Junior standing is recommended and a grade point average of 3.000 and completion of FREN 204   are required. An internship is an enormously valuable experience but one that places great demands on students’ communication and work skills. For that reason, it is recommended that students with strong French language skills enroll in this program after the completion of their sophomore year.

Program Curriculum

Students begin the program with a one-week orientation and seven weeks of intensive language coursework to prepare them for the internship. Upon successful completion of the language component, students intern in French businesses in Paris for eight weeks. They are assisted in finding internships in one of the following areas: Arts/Architecture/Arts Administration; Business/Economics/ Finance; International Organizations; Politics/International Relations; Health/Human Services; Advertising/Marketing/Public Relations; Film/Radio/Television; Journalism; or Hospitality Administration. This program is one semester only. Students may enroll for either the fall or spring semester. The corresponding Valpo department must approve credit earned in Paris.

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.

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!

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.

Program Requirements

Sophomore standing and a cumulative GPA of 2.500 are required.

Program Curriculum

Students enroll in about four classes for the fall or spring semester. 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.

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 for a semester or two 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.

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 two-week 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 Global Education for more information.