Study Abroad
Why Study Abroad?
Studying abroad in a foreign country can be an academically rewarding and life-enriching experience. Students often find that immersion in a host country provides them with cultural and linguistic knowledge that is unmatched. Studying abroad alters students' perceptions of the world and of themselves. Opportunities to examine the traditions and history of another country often enhance the academic experience for History majors and concentrators. Ultimately, studying abroad offers invaluable benefits to a History degree. Students who choose to study abroad can work closely with the History Department to ensure that their coursework will transfer to fulfill History Department requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Where can I study abroad?
A. The Office of Global Programs offers 300 programs in 150 cities for Columbia students.
Q: Is it possible to transfer courses for History credit?
A: Yes. Courses that deal with historical topics and analyze content through a historical lens can be transferred and applied to a History major or concentration.
Q: Should students have my courses pre-approved before studying abroad?
A: It is not required that students have their courses pre-approved by the History Department before studying abroad. However, they should discuss your intended academic plans with the Director of Undergraduate studies before they go. Students should also remain in contact with the Undergraduate Administrator throughout the duration of their time abroad to ensure that they are aware of Departmental news and updates.
Q: What is the process for transferring credit to the major or concentration?
A: After returning to Columbia, students must bring a copy of their transcripts, syllabi, and available coursework along with a completed application to the Undergraduate Administrator. These documents will be reviewed by the Director of Undergraduate Studies, and the appropriate transfer equivalency will be determined.
Study Abroad Transfer Application: PDF format
Q: What is the limit of Study Abroad courses that can be applied to a History major or concentration?
A: No more than 12 points of transfer credit or study-abroad credit will be accepted toward the major; no more than 9 points will be accepted toward the concentration.
Q: Who should students contact while abroad for assistance to determine how a particular course may be applied to a History major or concentration?
A: Students studying abroad can contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies or the Undergraduate Administrator for guidance about their course selection and plan of study. If students have a course syllabus available, this will enable the DUS or UA to better determine how the course selection may be applied for History credit.