Science Experience Abroad (SEA)

Overview | Summer-Study-Abroad | International Research Fellowships | Internships and Community Engagement | Semester Abroad | Planning Ahead | Scholars | Publications

Planning Ahead

Students should start planning their study-abroad experience in their freshman year. You are encouraged to attend sessions organized by CIPA and OUE, and talk with CIPA and academic advisors, Dean Preetha Ram or the Directors of Undergraduate Students in your science departments. You can also read about the experience of some of the IRES students this year.

Language Considerations

• Although English is commonly spoken in most research labs, it is highly recommended that you have some knowledge of the language of your host country.
• If you have considerable expertise in a language, you should consider a program in a country where that language is spoken.
• Don’t forget your Emory language requirement. In some programs you could fulfill your one-year language requirement while abroad.
• While studying abroad in a non-English speaking country, consider finding a special foreign-language course for native English speakers.

Funding

There are many funding opportunities from the College and external agencies. Research fellowships are offered by the College through the IRES program. Other private foundations have their own deadlines and funding opportunities. For study abroad, CIPA will help you understand the financial aid packages that are available for study abroad.

Timing

Students can participate in study-abroad experiences at all times in their college careers. It is essential to plan with the guidance of a faculty advisor. Many courses offered in foreign institutions that are not offered at Emory could count as an elective for your major. The Director of Undergraduate Studies in your department or your faculty advisor can help you plan accordingly.

Checklist for Science Students Considering a Semester Abroad

1. Consult a CIPA advisor or your departmental advisor. Plan a schedule that takes into account your major and interests.
2. Identify a location (see below) that takes into account your language skills and research interests.
3. If you plan to participate in research in an international lab, spend at least one semester on research at Emory in your major area prior to your semester abroad.
4. Identify courses at the host institution that can count towards your science major. We recommend one or two science courses and two non-science courses.
5. Obtain permission for these courses to count as specific Emory courses before you leave. Courses that will count as a major requirement will need to be approved by your departmental advisor. For other course equivalencies, consult a CIPA advisor.
6. Make an appointment to meet with a CIPA advisor to finalize the details.

See the printable version of the Semester Abroad Checklist for Science Students (PDF).

*Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view PDF files.

Complete list of CIPA Semester Programs

See the Center for International Programs Abroad (CIPA) website for details.