If you're thinking about creating and leading a study abroad program, the team in Study Abroad and Global Programs is here to help. Below are some aspects to consider when building a study abroad program:

• Location: Choose a location where you have experience or academic contacts who can assist you.
• Timing: Decide how many days the program will last, and whether it will be offered during spring break, summer, or a specific semester. 
• Planning: Program planning and approval will need to occur at least six months prior to the program departing. This assures faculty leaders are given ample time to take advantage of every recruiting opportunity along the way.
• Budget: Review expected expenses (including, but not limited to, airfare, local transportation, meals, lodging, tours and special events) and any projected income. Find out if financial support is available from your department to help underwrite the cost of the program. 
• Goals: Define the expected learning outcome for students. Will it improve fluency in a specific language, broaden research skills or expand global competencies?
• Approval Process: All programs must be approved by the chair, dean of the school/college, director of study abroad and the associate vice president for educational outreach and international programs before you can begin recruiting students to participate.

Getting Started

To get started, review the program proposal requirements. Get familiar with the steps for completing a proposal, required health insurance, agreements with tour agencies, course credits and university liability.

Once you have created an outline of your program, make an appointment with the director of study abroad by emailing studyabroad@wayne.edu. During this session you can brainstorm, ask questions, get advice and learn about deadlines, costs, promotion and next steps. Study Abroad and Global Programs can help craft realistic itineraries, advise on budgets, collect student fees, create online applications and program webpages, oversee enrollment management, and provide pre-program health and safety training.

When you are ready to submit your proposal, you can do so through the Study Abroad portal. 

Start planning now for a successful study abroad program!