Propose a Study Abroad Course

Submit a Course Proposal for Review

All faculty wanting to offer a course abroad or that travels within the U.S. will submit a course proposal to be reviewed and approved by the Global Studies Advisory Committee. The committee will review the connection between course learning goals and on-site activities, logistics, viability of travel and geographic areas and other issues related to teaching a course abroad. They may make recommendations or request revisions. If there are more acceptable proposals than can be administered, the committee will select a group that represents a broad geographic and discipline distribution.

The intent of the course proposal is to elicit what you want students to learn from your course, how they will learn it, and how the location and on-site activities will enhance the learning. Be as explicit as possible about course goals, teaching methodology, requirements, and assessment. It is understood that the integrated syllabus (an academic syllabus plus itinerary) may need to be revised as logistical arrangements and course content are determined.

A course proposal must be submitted each time a course is to be offered, following the timelines below.

Instructors who intend for courses to satisfy a department, CORE, or general education requirement should first consult with the appropriate department/committee chair before submitting a proposal to the advisory committee. Faculty who wish to propose a course that will fulfill the GSJ requirement must also submit the proposal to the GSJ CORE committee and the course topic must be within an existing pod.

See timelines below for submission deadlines.


Start Early and Stay on Track

The lead time to propose, prepare, and promote a global studies course is typically 18–24 months before the course takes place. The timetable below include dates and deadlines.


Apply for a Course Development Grant

Faculty wishing to develop and teach a short-term course abroad can apply for the following funding source.


To promote faculty travel abroad associated with the development and teaching of courses in global contexts. The annual deadline is April 1. One award of $5,000 is available each year.


View the Faculty Handbook

The efforts of the faculty leader are the single largest determining factor in the success or failure of a study abroad program. Being a faculty leader requires a tremendous commitment of time and effort. A successful faculty leader must enjoy working with students and possess strong administrative skills. S/he must be comfortable in providing basic student counseling and in taking disciplinary action, if necessary. In addition, the faculty leader should be familiar with the host country and its culture, and have a basic understanding of the native language.

The faculty leader has significantly more authority and responsibility than s/he would at the home campus.

During this whole process, we are available to answer questions and assist you as you prepare for the program, facilitate the program, and evaluate after the program.

More details about proposing a faculty-led program are available in the Global Studies faculty handbook.