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Program Types

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a study abroad program is the program type or format. The program type will influence your entire day-to-day experience. This is just as important as choosing a particular city or country in which to study. Below is an overview of the types of programs offered at Ball State.  

Ball State Centers (Semester or Summer)

Ball State Centers are designed specifically for Ball State students and offer a menu of Ball State courses, many of which satisfy the CORE curriculum requirements. Centers are ideal for those who prefer the support of an on-site Ball State director during their time abroad. The director teaches at least one course and the remaining courses are taught by overseas faculty, giving students the chance to learn from the locals. Accommodations, excursions, meals and flights are all pre-arranged. Directors rotate each semester, providing variety in types of courses that are on offer. Ball State Centers are currently located in: England, Costa Rica, and Australia.

Field Studies (Summer or Break Periods)

Each year, a number of Ball State professors enrich coursework by leading a short-term course abroad for BSU students. Field Studies are available every year, and typically change from year to year. They are discipline-specific and focus on an academic theme or geographic region abroad. Because they are shorter in length they are a great choice for students who cannot spend a semester abroad. Ball State credit, accommodations, excursions, and flights are all pre-arranged.

Study Abroad Consortia (Semester or Summer)

Ball State students can also choose to study abroad in a program location shared with other US universities. Consortia programs have local directors who can offer academic and cultural guidance throughout the semester. These programs offer specialized upper division courses and built-in excursions. They also emphasize immersion into the host culture. Many offer homestays or community service to enhance the cross-cultural experience. Ball State currently belongs to two consortia: AHA and KIIS, offering over 50 different study abroad sites. Credits are arranged in conjunction with the appropriate Ball State academic departments.

Exchanges (Semester or Academic Year)

These programs are designed to be a reciprocal exchange of students from one institution to another. Ball State students directly enroll in universities abroad and earn resident credit. In some cases students need foreign language proficiency to participate in an exchange. Exchanges are designed for independent students who are comfortable with limited academic and social support. They are best for students who are studying a foreign language or have a more flexible study plan. Immersion is achieved by integration, but this is largely up to the student. Ball State has over 30 partner schools around the world and also belongs to the ISEP Network, adding over 150 additional partner schools. Credits are arranged in conjunction with the appropriate Ball State academic departments. Accommodation is typically arranged by the student, with some assistance from the host university.

International Internships (Summer)

Ball State students can gain hands-on work experience by participating in an internship abroad. We currently offer 7 week and 11 weeks customized academic internships in Dublin, Ireland. Programs include job placement, accommodation and travel arrangements. Credits are arranged in conjunction with the student's Ball State internship coordinator.