Study Abroad
The best way to understand another culture is to experience it, to connect with it for a prolonged period. This also encourages a deeper understanding of our own cultures as we interact with and learn from others.
At Seattle Pacific University, we strive to develop cross-cultural connections — and the new perspectives that come with them — by encouraging students to study and live abroad. We want our graduates to appreciate and understand the differences and inter-dependencies that characterize our world.
It’s never too early to start planning for your study abroad experience. Start by asking yourself some questions: What areas of study do you want to pursue? When do you plan to study abroad? How long do you want to be away? How are you funding your study abroad experience?
We recognize that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to international education, so we offer three basic types of programs:
SPU Faculty-Led Programs
Join SPU faculty as they lead courses around the globe. These immersive, short-term programs (12 days to three weeks) are taught by SPU professors and typically are attached to a regular academic quarter. Students travel with a cohort of SPU peers while earning course credit abroad. Examples include Cross-Cultural Psychology in Seoul and Art History in Rome.
SPU Partner Programs
Spend a quarter, semester, or full year studying with one of our carefully selected partners—either international universities or approved study abroad program providers—and earn transferable academic credit. Credits are awarded through accredited foreign or U.S. institutions and apply toward your SPU degree. Students continue to pay SPU tuition plus program fees, allowing them to use SPU scholarships and grants, as well as state and federal financial aid (excluding work-study), while studying abroad.
Non-Partner Programs
Summer, quarter, semester or year-long programs are offered by accredited universities or study abroad organizations all over the world. Credits will be transferred from foreign universities or accredited U.S. institutions. Students pay tuition and fees directly to their chosen program and may be eligible to use state and federal financial aid (except work study), but do not receive SPU scholarships or grants during the period abroad. All summer opportunities are considered non-partner programs.
How to Apply
Your first step is to explore these options to determine the best fit for you. Meet with an advisor in the Office of Study Abroad to ask questions and review the application process. Once you've settled on a program, you can apply directly on the SPU Study Abroad programs page.
To be eligible for all partner and non-partner programs, you must have coursework approved prior to your studies abroad and complete a second application directly with your program of choice. These steps are outlined in the SPU Study Abroad application.
To determine costs and financial aid eligibility, check with Student Financial Services for complete details.