Many students have questions regarding the differences in program types. While every program will have unique characteristics that may diverge from the norm, most programs can be categorized into one of the following types.
UMW Faculty-Led Programs
UMW Faculty-Led Programs are designed, developed and directed by UMW faculty. The level of immersion on a faculty-led program can vary widely: from taking courses exclusively with other UMW students, to taking courses at a partner university with local or other study abroad students. While participants are predominantly from UMW, students from other colleges and universities may participate as well. UMW faculty-led programs are offered only during breaks in the UMW academic calendar; winter break, spring break, and summer term.
Direct-Enroll Programs
Direct-Enroll Programs are programs administered by a UMW partner organization and include students from a variety of US (and sometimes international) universities and colleges. UMW students work directly with the host institution’s international office when applying and will pay all tuition and associated fees directly to the partner university. Partner programs will typically include “Direct-Enroll” in the title.
UMW Exchange Programs
UMW currently has exchange agreements with 11 universities around the world. Participating in a UMW Exchange Program allows students to enroll in courses at the host institution, typically alongside local students, offering a high level of immersion. Interested students must register with the Center for International Education and UMW student nominations will be selected on a first-come, first-serve basis pending the number of spots available for each exchange program, and given that a student meets all of the eligibility requirements for their intended program. If selected, applicants will next apply directly to the host university. Admitted students continue to pay regular tuition and fees to UMW; students make arrangements through the host institution or independently for housing, transportation and other expenses. In any given semester, participants may be the only, or one of only a few, UMW students participating in a particular exchange. Given the unique nature of the application process, and variations by institution in procedures for making housing arrangements, enrolling in courses, applying for visas, and more, students interested in an exchange are required to meet with an Education Abroad Advisor prior to the application process.
Provider Programs
Programs sponsored by outside institutions or by private companies specializing in education abroad are referred to as Provider Programs or simply “UMW Approved Programs“. A wide range of programs are available, including those that facilitate students enrolling directly at a host institution, those where students take classes exclusively with other visiting students in buildings or classrooms owned by the program, and experiential programs allowing you to do internships, field study or research. The cost, level of immersion and accommodation options can vary widely on these programs.