Study Abroad

The School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts (SSHA) encourages its students to add an international dimension to their education by participating in the UC Education Abroad Program (EAP). EAP provides students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Italian language and culture in Rome, gain unique perspectives on Asian international politics and society while studying on the grounds of a royal palace in Seoul or apply psychoanalytic theory to social issues in South Africa. Each year, SSHA students attend these and other EAP options around the world. With proper academic planning, students can have the experience of a lifetime with no loss of time in completing their degrees.

For more information and to apply to study abroad, please visit UC Merced's Study Abroad website.

In preparation for your time abroad, you should:
  • Meet with the UC Merced Education Abroad Office (as soon as possible) to discuss your program options and requirements.
  • Make an appointment with your advisor for an EAP advising meeting as early as possible, but at least one month prior to your application deadline.

In preparation for an EAP advising meeting, students should:
  • Gather program and course description information for 8-12 potential courses that may be completed abroad (depending on program length).
  • Complete the EAP Academic Planning form required for their specific application.

At the meeting, students and advisors will discuss:
  • Student progress in their academic program and the effects of EAP participation (if any) including issues with residency and application for graduation.
  • Application of proposed courses to their academic program.

Approval for Courses Taken Abroad

The School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts (SSHA) does not pre-approve EAP courses. However, students seeking to complete requirements in their major, minor or general education must schedule a meeting with their academic advisor at least one month prior to application due dates to review their academic progress and discuss strategies for course selection while abroad. This cannot be done on a walk-in basis. Because EAP applications are often due at very busy times during the semester, students are encouraged to plan ahead and make advising appointments early.

Once abroad …

Compile course materials for the courses you wish to receive major, minor or general education credit. To receive the most accurate advising for the next term’s registration, students are encouraged to contact their advisor with their in progress EAP coursework. Though this review does not constitute course approval, it should give both you and your advisor a good idea of what courses you will still have outstanding.

When you return to campus ...

Submit courses for major, minor or general education approval. Along with a “Course Approval Form," you should be prepared to submit the following:

  • A syllabus in English. If translated from another language, attach the original to the English translation. Syllabi should include a description and summary of the course, required texts and readings and a week by week course outline.
  • Additional materials including papers and reading lists (only if requested).

Please be advised that final approval is contingent on confirmation of unit values and final grades; this will occur once your transcripts have been received by the UCM Office of the Registrar. Courses completed abroad are subject to applicable School and University policies. For more information, contact your academic advisor.