Off-Campus Programs Handbook
2007/2008

Center for International Education (CIE)
Gerstacker International House
KC # 4690

 Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - noon, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Dr. Debra Peterson Ph.D, Interim Director	ext. 0307 email dpeterson@albion.edu
Sherri Lang, Secretary	ext. 0392 E-mail: slang@albion.edu

We will start taking appointments to discuss Spring Semester 2009 at the end of March. Please contact our office to make an appointment.

 

Applications DUE:

September 9, 2008 - spring semester programs

 
 

MISSION STATEMENT

Center for International Education

The mission of the Center for International Education (CIE) is to promote intercultural communication and exchange, cross-cultural understanding, and transnational competence between the people of Albion College and the global community.

Table of Contents

general information

types of off-campus programs
subject areas for off-campus study
internships
when to go off-campus
very important considerations
foreign language fluency
accommodations
cost of programs
further information
safety & responsibility
summer programs
summer jobs and volunteer opportunities abroad
going on an ocp that is not on the list of programs approved for albion credit

policies & procedures

academic qualifications for off-campus study
how to apply
predeparture orientation
insurance
international student id card
academic credit
finances
study abroad...what can i expect?
off-campus program faculty advisors

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"It was one of, if not the most, valuable experience of my life. I wouldn't trade this time for anything! Not that it was always easy, but I was able to learn a lot about myself during the hard times and really enjoyed all the places I got to go (11 countries)." Jessica zuiderveen, ies-vienna, spring 2007.

You are reading this guide to off-campus study because you are considering going off campus for a semester, year, or summer term. Perhaps you have already selected a program or you are still undecided about off-campus study. This guide contains important information about off-campus programs at Albion; please read it carefully. also, please visit the Center for International Education (CIE) any time. We will be happy to provide more specific information and answer your questions.

 

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

Abbreviations and Acronyms:

ACM:  Associated Colleges of the Midwest. A consortium of 14 midwestern colleges. Albion is not a member.

CIE: Center for International Education

GLCA: Great Lakes Colleges Association, Inc., a non profit corporation. A consortium of 12 midwestern colleges. Albion is a member.

OCP:  Off-Campus Programs

OCP handbook: located on the CIE website, contains basic information about each off-campus program.

LOCATIONS OF OFF-CAMPUS PROGRAMS (OCP)

Off-Campus programs (OCP) are located in many different countries around the world and at several sites in the United States. The OCP handbook, on the website,  and brochures for individual programs in the CIE, provide specific information about all the study programs endorsed by the Albion faculty.  Towards the end of the handbook you will find a list of programs approved for Albion credit. An Albion faculty member serves as a campus advisor for each of the off-campus programs on this list. You also will find a list of students who have returned from off-campus programs.

 

TYPES OF OFF-CAMPUS PROGRAMS

Off-campus programs fall into two broad geographical categories: sponsored programs abroad and special programs in the USA. Albion is a member of the Great Lakes Colleges Association, Inc. (GLCA). Member colleges in the GLCA manage programs in both categories.

A.  OFF-CAMPUS PROGRAMS ABROAD

Most students planning to study abroad choose to study under the auspices of a program.  A program may be sponsored by Albion, by other American colleges or universities, or occasionally by foreign institutions. Such programs relieve the student of bureaucratic red-tape by handling all or part of the housing, and registration arrangements and securing smooth transfer of credit back to Albion.  As most of the programs have been operating for several years, you can be confident that your experience away from Albion will be rewarding. Your personal goals and academic needs will determine which program you choose. There are five types of sponsored programs:

"I loved every second!! You would be crazy not to go abroad. Madrid is my favorite city in the entire world!" Caitlin McLean, Boston University Program-Madrid, Spring 2007.

"It was fantastic!! A really incredible experience that, among other things, introduced the world to me. Excellent courses too." Thomas Youle, London School of Economics (LSE), Fall 2006 & Spring 2007.

1. Programs that offer their own courses exclusively for American/foreign students.  All courses are taught by faculty members of the sponsoring institution and by foreign faculty members engaged specifically for the program. Albion students who participate in this type of program are required to study the language of the country for the duration of their stay. For some programs, the language of instruction is English. Other programs require students to have some language proficiency before they arrive;  all instruction is in the target language. Examples: Students on the Japan Study Program study Japanese before and during the program, but classroom instruction is in English. Students on Albion’s program in Grenoble, France take all their course work in French.
   
   

2.   Programs that enroll American students directly in a foreign university for a full course of study.  The language of instruction is the language of the country. Therefore, enrollment in a university in a non-English speaking country requires a high degree of foreign language proficiency. This type of program usually provides challenging intellectual opportunities in courses that are more specialized than those generally offered in American undergraduate institutions. Examples: The Scotland Program at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, Kalamazoo College programs in Kenya and Sénégal, and Albion’s direct enrollment programs at the University of Cape Town,  South Africa and University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
   
   

3. Programs that combine courses arranged for American/foreign students with part-time enrollment in a foreign university.  Students do part of their academic work with fellow Americans and part with native students in the local university.  Proficiency in the language of the country is necessary.  Depending on the students’ degree of fluency, more or fewer courses at the university can be arranged.  Examples:  Antioch’s program in Tübingen, Germany and the CIEE program in Alicante, Spain.
   
   

4. The independent study program, which often offers intensive language and cultural training upon arrival, and on-site supervision of an independent study/research project.  This type of program is for the highly motivated and well-prepared student.  Examples: Associated Colleges of the Midwest (ACM) India Studies Program and the SFS (School for Field Studies) program in Kenya.
   
   

5. The combined academic/internship program  is becoming increasingly popular as an overseas and USA option for Albion students. These programs require a high degree of maturity and motivation and, if they are located in a non-English speaking country, proficiency in the foreign language. Examples: Educational Programmes Abroad London internships, Boston University’s Paris Internship Program, the Philadelphia Center and the New York Arts Program.

"I loved it!! It was the best experience of my life. I learned what I truly value and believe without the influence of my family and peers." Ashley Strickland, CIEE-Santiago, Spring 2007.

B.  SPECIAL PROGRAMS IN THE USA

Some of these programs are sponsored by universities and others are administered by member colleges of the GLCA. A few programs are independent centers not connected to any university. Several have in common an internship component for which you may receive academic credit (e.g., the Urban Life Center in Chicago (independent center), the Philadelphia Center (managed by Hope College), the New York Arts Program (managed by Ohio Wesleyan University). Other programs, such as the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (managed by Denison University), have a very specialized, single discipline focus.  See the OCP Handbook for details.

"I loved it! Everyone should go abroad sometime during their college career." Stephanie Bertee, CIEE-Alcala, Spain, Spring 2007.

 

SUBJECT AREAS FOR OFF-CAMPUS STUDY

Nearly all academic disciplines offered at Albion may be studied off-campus. Sometimes students in the humanities and social sciences can integrate more easily their off-campus programs into their work at Albion. For a complete list of programs available by Major please visit the CIE office where we have brochures available.

 

INTERNSHIPS

As mentioned above, several programs in the USA and abroad offer internship opportunities as well as course work. Often, the off-campus program weaves the course work and the internship experience together into an integrated curriculum. Examples: The Philadelphia Center, Washington Semester Program, the Urban Life Center in Chicago. There are internship possibilities for most majors. Please ask for more information in the CIE.

"It was wonderful! By far the best experience ever. it cannot compare to anything-the people you meet, cultures, internship, classes, traveling-it was all so Great!!" Nicole Smith, Boston University Sydney Internship Program, Spring 2007.

 

 

WHEN TO GO OFF-CAMPUS

Students frequently ask whether to plan for one semester, a full year at one program, or two semesters off campus on different programs. The decision depends upon your academic goals, the ability to integrate your study off campus into your academic program at Albion, and many other factors (including money).  However, most students find that a full academic year is more rewarding academically, socially and personally than a shorter period. Some programs are designed especially for one-semester students, and a limited number of summer programs are available for those who cannot reconcile off-campus study with their Albion work load. PLEASE NOTE that you can count up to two semesters or one academic year of off-campus study toward graduation (eight Albion units).

The junior year is the usual time for off-campus study, although a few Albion students go in their senior year, especially the first semester. However, most students go off campus during their junior year. Junior year is the time after you have declared a major and minor, begun work in most fields, and completed most of your core requirements. You return to Albion as a senior, ready to complete your four-year education with a broader perspective. Albion does not permit students to do off-campus work earlier than the junior year. If you are considering studying off campus in your senior year, you should plan the move carefully. You will want to take extra care throughout the application process to ensure that you will meet all your graduation requirements.  Participation in an off-campus program during the last semester of your senior year may delay graduation.

 

VERY  IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

Here are some questions that might help you decide if an off-campus experience is right for you. Also, they may help you clarify your thoughts on the kind of OCP experience you would like. Please take the time to read this section carefully and answer the questions honestly. The director of the CIE will be happy to talk with you about any questions or concerns you may have.

General  Considerations

• Why do I want to participate in an off-campus program?
  
  

• What are my expectations for my off-campus program experience? What do I want to have happen during my time away?
  
  

• What aspect of an OCP is most important to me (courses, locale, cultural experiences, internship, travel)?

 ACADEMIC CONSIDERATIONS

• What do I hope to gain from the experience academically?
  
  

• What courses or subjects do I want or need to study?
  
  

• Do I want an internship and study experience or do I prefer just studying in a university setting?
  
  

• Do I want to take classes in English or in a foreign language?
  
  

• Are there specific Core requirements, category requirements, or courses for my  major that I must complete while I am away from Albion? Please note that it is sometimes impossible to meet these requirements on an off-campus program.
  
  

• What do my faculty advisor and major department think of my plans?

 practical Considerations

• In what area, country or city would I like to study?
   

• How long do I want to be away?
   

• How much money can I afford to spend?
   

• Does my participation depend upon receiving financial aid?
   

• Do I have any special needs that may influence my choice of program? Special needs can include vegetarianism, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, and allergies.
   

• What is my foreign language ability?

 Personal Considerations

• At this stage of my life, am I in good mental and physical health? Do I have any problems that would be difficult to handle some place else?
  
  

• Are there difficult situations in my life that cause me significant stress? A study away experience will exacerbate personal problems and stress symptoms.
  
  

• Am I prepared to be away from my family and friends for a summer, semester or year?
  
  

• How well do I adjust to new situations?  Am I able to be flexible and adaptable?
  
  

• Am I ready to be independent and self-reliant?
  
  

• How do I learn? Do I like a highly structured learning environment? A moderately structured learning environment? Or, do I prefer to learn independently, to be a self-directed learner?
  
  

• What kind of housing would I find most comfortable?
  
  

• Would I prefer living and studying with other Americans, with students of the host country, or with a combination of both?
  
  

• How do I feel about living in a large city?
  
  

• Do I enjoy dealing with details and red-tape on my own, or do I prefer having someone help me?

The importance of knowing a foreign language cannot be overemphasized. Academic, social and personal integration into the host country depends on the ability to communicate. If you plan to study in a foreign university, you must know the language well enough to follow lectures, do reading and research, and take examinations. Thus, you must be highly proficient in the language.

Enrollment in some USA or British-sponsored programs is not based on demonstrated proficiency in a foreign language. However, if you participate in a foreign language program,  you must be prepared and willing to learn the language while you are in the country through intensive language study and daily contact with people.

On an OCP, you may expect to live in a pension, a dorm, a student hostel, an apartment, or with a host family. The nature of the living accommodations is described in the program information literature. The type of accommodation available may be the determining factor in your choice of program, all other things being equal. The foreign universities on Albion’s list of programs approved for Albion credit usually provide dormitory accommodations for our students.

You can apply 75% of your Albion College Scholarship and all of your other financial aid toward the cost of your off-campus program experience, up to the cost of an Albion education. Most programs are within that cost.  In addition, students are encouraged to seek additional scholarships from the external program to assist with the cost of an off campus experience.

However, how much money you spend will depend on where you go, how you live, and how much you travel on weekends and vacations. It also will depend on internal economic conditions of the country where you are going to study and on the strength of its currency against that of the US dollar. Programs have different prices and different things are included in the program fee. Please check out the various programs for cost. This could well be a factor that causes you to choose one program over another. For more information about cost and off-campus study, please see the section on finances under Policies and Procedures.

"It will definitely remain as one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I would recommend it to anyone to go abroad." Lauren Karcz, University College Cork, Ireland, Fall 2006.

Besides the OCP handbook, the CIE has a small reference library with books on foreign educational systems and reference works dealing with foreign study. Here is a list of some reference materials that you may want to consult early in the planning stage.

1. PROGRAM LITERATURE:  On our Off-Campus Wall in the CIE.  Ask also for the programs’ web site addresses.
   
   

2. PROGRAM EVALUATIONS: Albion students complete a program evaluation form after their off-campus experience. You will find these forms in loose leaf binders on the open shelf in the CIE.  We encourage you to read the evaluations for the programs you are considering before making any final decision. They invariably provide information that a promotional brochure would not or could not!
   
   

3. LISTS OF RETURNEES:  Albion students who have returned to campus from off-campus programs are excellent sources of information, as are the faculty advisors to the programs. You will find lists of returnees and faculty advisors in the back of this booklet and at the CIE.
   
   

4. STUDY ABROAD WEB SITES: Students looking for information about study abroad programs may find the following websites useful:

   studyabroad.com
   goabroad.com
   iiepassport.org
   

5. WORLD ATLAS
   
   

6. International Handbook of Universities 15th Edition: Basic information about universities and other institutions of higher learning outside the Commonwealth.
   
   

7. Getting the Most from Study Abroad, New York: Natavi Guides 2002 Provides written works by students with study abroad experience for students looking for study abroad tips.
   
   

8. Academic Year Abroad 2002. Institute of International Education, ed. Marie O’Sullevan: A complete guide to planning an academic year or semester abroad.
   
   

9. Peterson’s Study Abroad 2002.
   
   

10. Peterson’s Summer Study Abroad 2002.
    
    

11. Alternative Travel Directory 2002, general editor, Clayton
    Hubbs. This thorough up to date directory is billed as “the complete
    guide to work, study, and travel overseas.”
    
    

12. The WORLD WIDE WEB. A wealth of information about  countries, universities and safety and health issues. Two important sites are:

    US State Department Travel Warnings and Consular Information

    This site describes tense or dangerous situations around the world. It also provides general travel information about all countries. An important source of information for your country of choice.

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

    This is another must see site to find out what health risks exist for the areas where you plan to study or travel. Also, the CDC lists necessary inoculations and prophylactic measures.
    

Once you have selected your OCP options, you will find other books, maps, brochures, etc., in the CIE about your study abroad destination as well as on the program's web site. These materials may help answer your questions or concerns about travel, entertainment possibilities, politics, etc. Famous among all student travelers is the Let’s Go  series. There are also  Lonely Planet on a Shoestring  guides for Western Europe and Australia.

As I hope you know, Albion College makes every effort to assure the safety and welfare of its students. However, travel anywhere involves a measure of risk. It would be foolish for anyone to promise you that nothing can happen to you during your off-campus experience.

However, there are things that you can do to lessen the possibility of sustaining an injury, getting sick, or being a victim of crime. When you are an off-campus student, you are an independent adult; you are responsible for your actions and for taking appropriate health and safety precautions. We encourage you to check the WWW sites listed above.  Also, your program will be a good source of information and advice.

There are several off-campus programs that also run summer sessions. Students apply to these summer sessions during the preceding spring semester.  As noted previously, application to these programs follows the same procedures outlined in the section on “How to Apply.”

Application to other summer study programs abroad or to summer school in the US does not involve the CIE.  The director of the CIE, though willing to discuss summer options with students, does not have administrative responsibility for non-Albion affiliated summer programs.  You apply directly to the program in which you are interested. You do not follow the OCP application procedure required for Albion’s off-campus programs. If you want to receive transfer credit for academic work completed on a summer program, check with the Registrar and the chair of the Albion department(s) in whose discipline(s) you will be studying.

Summer programs abroad sponsored by American colleges and universities are listed in Vacation Study Abroad, ed. Sara J. Steen.

There are many summer programs overseas sponsored by foreign universities without an American college intermediary.  Also read Transitions, a study abroad magazine in the CIE, for announcements of unusual summer programs, e.g., to the People’s Republic of China.

You cannot use any payment plans for Summer Off Campus Programs

Although not the easiest thing to do, it is possible to work abroad for a limited time in some countries, especially in the summer. Some organizations sponsored structured volunteer activities abroad.  Information is available in the CIE and the Career Development Office.

A. ONE-TIME-ONLY APPROVALS

Under extraordinary circumstances, the Off-Campus Programs Advisory Committee may designate a program not on the Albion-approved list as an Albion-approved program for the duration of study for a particular student or group of students. Students who find that no Albion-approved program meets their academic needs may petition the OCP Advisory Committee for a one-time-only approval of a program not on the approved list.

B. NON ALBION-APPROVED PROGRAMS

Occasionally students choose to enroll directly in a foreign university or with another sponsored program not on Albion's list of approved programs. Applying on your own to these programs can be risky, tricky, and time consuming. However, it has been done by a few students. Here are some things to keep in mind if you choose this route:

• You must take a leave of absence for the semester or year of the program
  
  

• It is your responsibility to make all the arrangements for the off-campus program.
  
  

• You must consult with the Registrar about receiving credit  for a non-Albion approved program.
  
  

• No grades are recorded
  
  

• You must petition a waiver of the on-campus residency requirement (last twelve units completed on campus).
  
  

• You may not use Albion financial aid for non-Albion approved programs.
  
  

• If you are attending an Albion-approved program or a program approved on a one-time-only basis, you must attend the program as an Albion student to receive credit.
  

Note that students who fail to follow College procedures regarding off-campus study, or who withdraw or take a leave of absence from Albion to circumvent existing College regulations regarding off-campus study, will not receive credit for coursework done off campus.

Students choosing to attend a non-Albion off-campus program MUST insure that the following steps are completed.