Are the study abroad programs in English?
Instruction is in English in all but four of the programs. The Spain, Chile, France, and Japan programs are taught in each country's respective language.

Will studying abroad delay my graduation?
No. Your graduation will not be delayed. Because you are able to obtain approval for journalism and non-journalism credit prior to your departure, you will receive credits that will transfer back to MU toward your journalism degree. Your time spent abroad will contribute toward your academic and personal goals not postpone them. 

Will it cost more to study abroad than to stay at MU?
Yes. However, it's generally not a great deal more. On exchange programs, you pay your tuition at Missouri, so the difference is the cost of living in the city you choose, plus the cost of traveling there.  Many of the our programs are located where the cost of living is comparable in cost to a semester in Columbia. Some are even less expensive than living in Columbia..

There is a program cost associated with all Internship and short-term programs. Please refer to the program-specific pages for individual program costs.

Often your financial aid is applicable to study abroad programs. You can meet with a financial aid advisor to discuss your aid and other possible options for additional aid. You are also encouraged to apply for the Journalism Travel Scholarships awarded every semester.

Won't I miss everything going on at MU for the semester?
There are no words or web pages that can describe the memories, friendships, or experiences you will have during your time studying in another country. And although you may miss a season of MU football or your favorite organization's formal, you will be experiencing new and exciting events abroad. You will also find that it is easy to meet new people from all over the world. Don't let this opportunity of a lifetime pass you by. You took the chance to come to MU and have found it rewarding. Take the next step and experience Missouri Journalism abroad!

Do I have to go for a semester?
The study abroad experience is not limited to a specific duration. We offer summer and intersession programs in addition to our semester programs. We believe all students going abroad will benefit and hope you can find a program that best suits your schedule.

When should I apply?
Applications are due the semester before you want to study abroad. Please check the Study Abroad home page for updated program-specific deadlines.

Is it safe?
Your safety is our primary concern.  All students attend mandatory pre-departure orientations covering health and safety, travel precautions, and site-specific information. In addition, all partner abroad universities have on-site international staff readily available to assist students. The MU International Center has an on-call emergency response system that students can also call when abroad.

Are the programs competitive?
We believe it is to every student's benefit to study abroad. By experiencing the world and new outside perspectives on journalism, you are not only developing your journalistic skills, but you are also enhancing your own personal growth. You must meet the program eligibility requirements and fulfill the necessary application materials, but as long as you meet those, you should plan on experiencing journalism in a new part of the world.

Shouldn't I spend my time doing an internship instead of studying abroad? This is not an either/or proposition. Some of our programs are designed with a sequence-specific internship that earns you journalism credit. Individual planning and preparing with your academic, financial, and study abroad advisors will help you decide the best time for you to go. This is the time in your life for learning and experiencing as much as you can academically, personally, and professionally.

What do I do if I'm a Walter Williams Scholar?

If you are a Walter Williams scholar, that means you automatically get a $1,000 scholarship for studying abroad or our Washington D.C. or New York programs. You will want to talk to your assigned faculty mentor, advisor, and/or one of our staff about using that scholarship for studying abroad.