UO Overseas Program Models
There are several different types of overseas programs available to
UO students. The following are brief descriptions of some of the major
types of programs, although it is important to understand that some
individual programs are modified versions of their program type, or
hybrids of two program models.
Island Programs
Island programs are highly structured programs in which a group of
students from the UO and, in some cases, other American universities,
take courses together, usually taught by an American professor or
by both Americans and host nationals specifically hired to teach in
the program. These programs allow for the richness of the cultural
setting within the relative familiarity of American-style courses.
In addition, many island programs have one or more organized excursions
that incorporate lectures or hands-on learning in the field.
Direct-Exchange Programs
In direct-exchange programs (also known as direct-enrollment programs),
students are fully admitted as temporary, non-degree students in a
foreign university and may select from the full range of courses for
which they have the appropriate prerequisites and language abilities.
Field-Study Programs
In a field program, students split their time between classroom-based
learning and fieldwork that allows them to experience personalized,
hands-on learning in the host nation—really putting the site
to work for their education! In many cases, students work with a nonprofit,
a government agency or another organization that already exists in
the host country.
Language-Immersion Programs
In a language-immersion program, students study primarily a foreign
language and its cultural contexts, often in a far more intensive
and fast-paced arrangement than the usual pattern of on-campus language
courses. Rapid progress may be possible (for example, a year of language
credits in 8 weeks).
Internships
In an overseas internship, students work full-time for a company,
agency, organization, NGO or government office in the host nation,
gaining professional experience, international experience, and academic
credit—all at the same time!
You can quickly get a sense of which model a program follows by reading
the program’s descriptive brochure.
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