How to Choose a Program
Ready to learn more about studying abroad? Your first step is to narrow down which program or type of program is the best fit for you. Review the considerations below, and then attend a first step session! No preparation is required, but considering the items below will help prompt questions to ask, or bring up things you want to discuss.
You can also meet with a peer advisor one-on-one with no appointment needed. Peer Advisors are Tommies who have studied abroad for at least one semester and are a great resource when you are getting started with your study abroad planning. Learn from their experience, ask questions and explore all of your options.
Already feel like you know which program is for you?
Visit our how to apply guide to review the application process.
Program Types
St. Thomas programs are designed for the St. Thomas curriculum, led by St. Thomas faculty, and are open only to St. Thomas students. These programs can be semester-long or short-term (in January.)
Affiliate programs are provided by an external partner that has undergone rigorous review by St. Thomas to ensure academic quality. These programs ensure study abroad options are available for all majors. These programs can be semester-long or short-term (in January or summer).
Through several exchange agreements with institutions outside of the United States, St. Thomas students can study independently at partner institutions for a semester or year.
Consider Your Priorities
There are many different ways to approach selecting the best program for you. To assist you in the selection process, answer the following questions.
Expertise
Do you want a program that will contribute to your expertise in your chosen major and/or career?
If so, a program specific to your field would be your first priority. Such a program might include:
- major/minor specific classes
- an internship
- a location that relates to your major.
Location
Do you have a specific location in mind that fits your personal interests and/or major?
If so, focus on location to help you narrow your search
Term/Duration
Do you prefer to study abroad for a specific term?
J-Term programs offer an intensive experience to fully immerse yourself in the course content for a short period of time.
Semester/academic year programs allow you to actually live in a new country and adapt to another culture while pursuing your academic and career goals.
Program Type
Do you know what type of program you are looking for?
Here are some program components you might consider:
- program size
- classes with other international/U.S./local students
- internship
- cohort model
- research/project options
Expertise
Expertise
Do you want a program that will contribute to your expertise in your chosen major and/or career?
If so, a program specific to your field would be your first priority. Such a program might include:
- major/minor specific classes
- an internship
- a location that relates to your major.
Location
Location
Do you have a specific location in mind that fits your personal interests and/or major?
If so, focus on location to help you narrow your search
Term/Duration
Term/Duration
Do you prefer to study abroad for a specific term?
J-Term programs offer an intensive experience to fully immerse yourself in the course content for a short period of time.
Semester/academic year programs allow you to actually live in a new country and adapt to another culture while pursuing your academic and career goals.
Program Type
Program Type
Do you know what type of program you are looking for?
Here are some program components you might consider:
- program size
- classes with other international/U.S./local students
- internship
- cohort model
- research/project options
Create Goals
Why do you want to study abroad? What do you hope to gain from the experience? Maybe you just know you want to see the world, or perhaps you have a specific program in mind that supports a career goal. Either way, take some time now to note some broad goals, and consider what is important to you.
Goals and desired outcomes will change and develop throughout the study abroad process. Beginning to define them now will help shape your experience, and bring a more focused perspective as you consider different options and program types.
International Internships
It's never been easier to internationalize your resume by adding an internship to your study abroad experience! Learn how to find a program that includes an international internship.
Engineering Programs
The St. Thomas 富二代视频 of Engineering has identified study abroad programs in Germany, Korea and Australia that meet the Engineering degree requirements at St. Thomas. Explore study abroad options for Engineering students.
Graduate Programs
Graduate students often find that studying abroad enhances their global competency and deepens the understanding of their field. Learn more about study abroad options for graduate students.