Study Away Program

Contact Information

Email: sap@uis.edu
Phone: (217) 206-8319
Location: BRK 482

The Study Away programs support global engaged learning experiences for UIS students, both abroad and across the United States. The primary service areas for Study Away programs include:

  • Study away advising and planning for students

  • UIS-led Short-term study away programs

  • One or two-semester study away exchange programs

  • Visiting scholars and exchange student programs, and J-visa management

  • International Partnerships for student and educator opportunities

  • Collaborative Online International Learning ("COIL") initiatives

  • Administration of Gallagher international travel insurance

  • Consultation and support for faculty, staff, and University departments interested in exploring and developing USA and international initiatives.

Study Away offers a variety of opportunities, with some hosted by UIS and others by university partners and university networks. Program models include:

  • UIS-led Short-Term programs (semester break, spring break, or summer)

  • UIS International Partner Programs (1-2 semesters abroad)

  • UIS Non-Affiliate Independent Programs (program lengths vary)  

  • National Student Exchange Program (NSE) (1-2 semesters at another institution in the US)

All OEL courses - IPL or Study Away require a submitted application through EngageU and OEL department approval before registration permission is granted.

Study Away engaged learning experiences are considered high-impact learning experiences and facilitate real-world learning and professional skill development. Students who study away have a competitive advantage over individuals who do not, and can expect to:

  • Increase fluency in another language

  • Acquiring a broader cultural perspective

  • Experience increased empathy for individual differences

  • Obtain a broader understanding of the thoughts and opinions of others

  • Enhance their ability to work independently to achieve goals

  • Develop unique professional competencies or skills that set them apart, and can be incorporated into their resumes

All Study Away courses require a submitted application through EngageU and OEL department approval before registration permission is granted. Students completing courses offered by Study Away programs receive ECCE Engagement Experience credit and may request ECCE Global Awareness credit by submitting a Student Petition for UNI 460, UNI 470, or UNI 480.

Beyond offering student mobility programs, Study Away is involved with U.S. and international online education, collaborate with universities globally by creating university reciprocal exchange agreements, supports visiting faculty, researchers and exchange students, and oversees UIS compliance with the U of I Board of Trustees International Travel Safety Policy which promotes the safety and security of those traveling outside the United States for system-related and approved activities. 

Study Away Courses

UNI 262ECCE: Global Experience Program: Immigration and Human Trafficking3
UNI 460ECCE: Global Experience Seminar1-12
UNI 470ECCE: Global Experience Exchange4-18
UNI 480ECCE: Global Experience Program4-18