The College of Charleston’s study abroad opportunities continue to grow with new programs and additional participants. One of the largest increases is interest from graduate students.
Between 2008 and 2010, four to six graduate students studied abroad as part of their degree. Last year, that number dramatically increased to 17 when the College offered a study abroad experience for students in the M.S. in Accountancy program. Based on that success, the same program will head to France and England in 2012, and a graduate-level program in historic preservation has been added. Graduate students in historic preservation have the opportunity to study in Trujillo, Spain as part of a collaborative program with Clemson University.
“Studying abroad at the graduate level provides students with the critical global perspective,” says Amy McCandless, dean of The Graduate School of the College of Charleston. “Students can experience and witness theories put into action in other countries which they can then implement in their home city. It is also good for networking – the sharing of ideas with students and professionals from around the world. Their experience helps them create multifaceted solutions that better the local, state, national and global communities.”
“My experiences abroad were by far the best part of the Masters of Science in Accountancy program,” says student Stephanie McCartney. “I learned a tremendous amount academically, but more importantly, I absorbed other cultures and foreign influences that provided me with value academia alone cannot suffice.”
More and more undergraduate students are also choosing to study abroad – in spring 2012 enrollments are up by 30% for programs in Trujillo, Spain; Bueno Aires, Argentina; and Habana, Cuba. In summer 2012, more than 25 programs are being offered in countries ranging from China to Morocco to Germany.
New programs have been added in the Barbados (African American Studies) and new courses like Anthropology of Childhood (India).
For more information about international education, contact Andrew Sobiesuo at 843.953.5537.
For more information about the importance of study abroad as a master’s candidate, contact Niki Leiva at 843.953.1435.
