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University of Pittsburgh University Center for International Studies Contact the Study Abroad Office
Study Abroad Office
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Welcome to the Study Abroad Office
Founded in 1981, the Study Abroad Office develops programs and facilitates educational experiences in over 100 countries. Study abroad affords students the opportunity to engage in a unique, credit-worthy learning experience and to develop as global citizens. In specific, the office develops programs, monitors academic quality and assesses the learning outcomes of study abroad, maintains an efficient and supportive process for students to study abroad and contributes to national initiatives as a leader in the field of international education.

Study abroad is an increasingly important and attractive component of a well-rounded international education. As such, the University encourages all students to consider the option to study abroad as a significant enhancement of their undergraduate education.  Students who travel and study in another country can complement their major or minor coursework or simply deepen their appreciation of another culture. Study abroad provides students a chance to explore first-hand the language, history, and people of another land and, in the process, gain a competitive edge in the employment marketplace.

Along with branch offices in the School of Engineering, the College of General Studies, and the College of Business Administration, the Study Abroad Office identifies these opportunities as part of the University’s academic offering and not simply a student service. The Study Abroad Office assists students who are interested in exploring the study abroad options available: University-sponsored Panther Programs, exchange programs, and various third-party Pitt-recognized programs. The office maintains a resource center and a staff of experienced advisors to help students in choosing a program which suits their needs and interests.

The Study Abroad Office is part of the University Center for International Studies (UCIS). In addition to visiting our office, students should consider pursuing an Area Studies Certificate.


Mission of the Study Abroad Office

To advance the academic goals of the University by
developing and promoting a variety of international educational opportunities.

To augment students' intellectual, professional, and personal development
through both formal and experiential learning in another cultural context.

To enhance students' cross-cultural awareness and appreciation
in an increasingly complex global environment.



Vision of the Study Abroad Office

To provide affordable programs to all interested and qualified students.

To promote international opportunities beyond traditional groups to include underrepresented student groups and disciplines.

To augment current program and exchange offerings to include more opportunities in varied geographic locations.

To enable students to apply their cross-cultural skills to personal and professional endeavors.





University Center for International Studies (UCIS)

The University Center for International Studies (UCIS) encompasses centers for area studies and topical specializations in international education. It includes a total of 19 components all designed to introduce or further enhance a Pitt student's international knowledge and experience while in college.

An Area Studies Certificate is an academic credential that a student can earn while working on a degree. It is also an excellent complement to a study abroad experience as well as a student's major or minor. It facilitates language proficiency and area/subject knowledge, giving a student an advantage in post-graduate and career pursuits. A student can earn certificates in: African Studies, Asian Studies, European Union Studies, Global Studies, Latin American Studies, and Russian and East European Studies.


 
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University of Pittsburgh University Center for International Studies Contact the Study Abroad Office