Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I study abroad and receive Journalism credit?
Thirteen exchange programs, five internship programs, and a growing number of short-term programs offer a wide variety of options from which Missouri Journalism students can choose.  Yes, each program offers JOURN credit which allows for students to stay well on track for their academic program goals.  Our MU Journalism Abroad programs literally help students apply the Missouri Method to the abroad experience!  Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to learn more, especially as new programs are added and updates often occur.

Are the study abroad programs in English?
Instruction is in English in all but two of our programs; Spain and Chile.

Will studying abroad delay my graduation?
No. Your graduation should not be delayed. Because you should 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.  Finally, learn more on our Funding Your Experience page.

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 our How To Apply 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, and in most cases, you can plan on experiencing journalism in a new part of the world.  (Please note that exchange programs in particular are subject to agreement with our university partners abroad and approval may also be subject to capacity.  Likewise, some short-term programs may have limitations on capacity, as well.)

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?
As a Walter Williams Scholar, you automatically get a $1,000 scholarship for studying abroad or for our Washington D.C. or New York programs. Talk to your assigned faculty mentor, advisor, and/or one of our staff about using that scholarship for studying abroad.

Where can I learn more about preparations necessary for study abroad?  How do I get started?
Learn more about preparing for study abroad by reviewing the MU International Center Study Outside the U.S. website.  In particular, you'll find the MU Study Abroad Orientation Manual to be quite helpful.  Finally, review our programs on this website, then check out our Study Abroad Checklist and our How to Apply page to get get started.  Soon, you'll be on your way!