Kennesaw State University Study Abroad Programs: A Comprehensive Guide
Kennesaw State University (KSU) recognizes the importance of global education in preparing students for success in an interconnected world. To facilitate this, KSU offers a variety of study abroad programs designed to provide students with international experiences. Applying for these programs can be overwhelming, so this guide provides a structured overview of the opportunities available and how to navigate the application process.
Types of Education Abroad Programs at KSU
KSU provides various avenues for students to gain international experience, each with unique characteristics:
- Faculty-Led Programs: These programs are led by KSU faculty members and tailored for KSU students. They typically range from 1 to 7 weeks in duration and are primarily offered during the summer. These programs allow students to earn credits toward general education requirements or major-specific courses. Faculty-led programs feature structured itineraries that complement the KSU courses being taught.
- Exchange Programs: Through exchange programs, KSU students can study at partner institutions abroad, while students from those institutions can study at KSU. Most courses are taught in English.
- Affiliate Programs: KSU partners with various organizations to offer affiliate programs, providing a range of experiences from group travel to individual travel. These programs include collaborations with specific organizations and some programs through other University System of Georgia (USG) schools.
- Directed Study/Research Abroad Projects: These are individualized projects that students design and complete in collaboration with a KSU faculty member. They offer a unique opportunity for in-depth research or study in an international setting.
- Non-KSU Sponsored Programs: Students may participate in study abroad programs not directly sponsored by KSU, but it's crucial to obtain approval from Career Planning & Development beforehand.
Financing Your Study Abroad Experience
Studying abroad involves financial considerations, and KSU provides resources and guidance to help students manage these costs:
- KSU Global Education (GE) Scholarships: The KSU Global Education office administers several scholarships to support students pursuing education abroad.
- The Brian Olcott LaRaia Travelling Scholarship: This scholarship provides financial support to Kennesaw State University students.
- Shelby R. Wilkes, M.D. and Jettie M. Burnette, M.D. Scholarship: This scholarship supports undergraduate students enrolled in the Norman J. Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
- William W. Stitt, Jr. Scholarship: This scholarship supports students enrolled in the Department of Geography and Anthropology in the Norman J. Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences for research, advanced study, international travel, and more.
- Fundraising: Fundraising can significantly reduce the financial burden of an Education Abroad trip.
- Personal Asks: Reach out to friends and family, explaining the program's nature, what you'll be learning, why you decided to study abroad, and why it's a solid investment in your future. Make donating easy by specifying an amount or leaving it open, and consider creating a crowdfunding page.
- Hometown Resources: Explore resources from your hometown, county, or state. Local businesses or foundations you've patronized may be interested in sponsoring you.
- Community Involvement: Connect with your place of worship or other communities you're involved with. Ask for donations during services or meetings, highlighting your study abroad goals.
- Local Heritage Groups: Look for heritage groups or language associations related to your destination or personal heritage.
- Partnerships with Local Businesses: Partner with local businesses, offering publicity in the local paper or interviews upon your return in exchange for donations.
- Fundraising Events: Host a sale event or other creative fundraisers to raise awareness and funds for your project. However, be cautious with product-selling fundraisers, ensuring the legitimacy of the company.
- Merchant Plan: A merchant plan involves developing mutually beneficial relationships with local businesses, making them a valuable fundraising resource.
- Crowdfunding: Create a crowdfunding page to raise money for your study abroad trip.
- Employment: Setting aside a portion of your paycheck each week towards study abroad can significantly contribute to your financial resources.
Application Process for B.B.A. Students
For students pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), the following points are crucial:
- Formal requests to participate in semester abroad programs must be submitted to the Coles College of Business at least 30 days in advance of when an approval decision is needed.
- When applying, provide not only the business courses you would most like to take but also several backups in case some of them cannot be approved.
- Be aware that many foreign universities use credit systems that are not equal to semester hours.
- KSU has agreements with some foreign universities for semester abroad programs. If you participate in a program not affiliated with KSU, there is no guarantee that the credit will be accepted at KSU.
- Courses taken abroad might be considered at a lower level than what was pre-approved.
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