International Experience
International Experience for International Studies Major
All students who declare International Studies are required to participate in a learning abroad program or an international internship. Students must earn a minimum of 3 credits during the international experience to fulfill the requirement. Students have the opportunity to choose from many different programs offered by Learning Abroad or global internships offered through the Hinckley Institute of Politics. Work, military, personal travel, and volunteer experiences DO NOT count toward this requirement.
If you cannot complete a study abroad due to financial, familial, or time constraints, another major is probably a better fit for you.
DACA/undocumented students: There are alternative ways of completing this requirement domestically. To discuss these, please make an appointment with one of our academic advisors.
The benefits of participating in an international opportunity, whether a study abroad or a global internship, are numerous. Students with an international experience have higher GPAs, graduate faster, and have a jump-start to a career path. With a major or minor in International & Area Studies, why not spend a semester or summer working or studying abroad?
An internship is an excellent opportunity for you to get an inside look at the different types of positions and responsibilities available where you may use your major, minor and/or language experience. Think of it as taking a career test ride before you actually have to decide what you are going to do with your life. You can also gain valuable work experience that will help you in virtually every endeavor, whether you choose to work in government or in the private sector.
Learning Abroad offers a variety of programs including summer/spring break/fall break programs led by University of Utah faculty; fall, spring, or academic year exchange programs; and programs offered through approved study abroad providers. With over 200 programs in 50 countries, you will find the perfect fit for your studies!
Contact Information
Learning Abroad
Union, Room 159
(801) 581-5849 | learningabroad.utah.edu
The Hinckley Institute offers global internships for undergraduate and graduate students of all disciplines in more than 40 countries. Academic credit and funding are available for fall, spring, and summer semesters. The Hinckley Institute sends students to various nonprofits, businesses, governments, think tanks, and NGOs across the globe.
Contact Information
Hinckley Institute of Politics
Gardner Commons, Room 2018
(801) 581-8501 | hinckley.utah.edu
Eccles Global is the learning abroad program for the School of Business. They offer faculty-led programs where students spend one week to one semester studying business with an international focus. They hold info sessions throughouy the year, and their programs may be a good fit, especially for students interested in international business and economies.
Contact Information
Eccles Global
Spencer Fox Eccles Building
(801) 581-7676 | eccles.utah.edu/students/global
