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International Experience

International Experience for Diplomacy and International Studies Majors

All students who declare Diplomacy or International Studies as their major are enthusiastically encouraged to participate in an internship or learning abroad program. Participants can earn a minimum of 3 credits during their internship or international experience to fulfill part of the major requirement. Students may choose from among the many internship and learning programs offered through the Hinckley Institute of Politics or the Office of Learning Abroad. Please note that work, military service, personal travel, and volunteer experiences are not eligible for degree credit.
 
To discuss these and related opportunities, 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!

Next Steps 

  1. Attend a Learning Abroad 101
  2. Search through programs
  3. Research scholarships

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. 

Next Steps 

  1. Search through internships
  2. Review the frequently asked questions
  3. Research scholarships

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. 

Next Steps

  1. Attend an info session 
  2. Review their programs

Contact Information

Eccles Global
Spencer Fox Eccles Building
(801) 581-7676 | eccles.utah.edu/students/global

Last Updated: 8/19/25