What Type of Study Abroad Program is Best for Me?
Texas Tech has a variety of program types to choose from. For more information about choosing the right study abroad program for you, read the descriptions below. You can click on the different categories for more information. For some factors to consider when choosing your program click here.
Each year, usually in the summer, Texas Tech faculty teach courses abroad in locations around the globe. Students enroll in catalog courses, pay TTU tuition and fees, and an additional program fee to participate in these programs.
Example: Shannon wants to study abroad, and would prefer to be with other Texas Tech students. She is looking for a short term program where the itinerary is planned ahead of time and the group travels together.
Texas Tech has established an international center in Seville, Spain for students wanting a language immersion experience. Students participating in the semester program can earn 12 hours of Spanish language while living with a host family. No prior Spanish language experience is required. Catalog courses are taught by TTU faculty, and students pay TTU tuition and fees and an additional program fee to cover room and board, orientation and excursions.
Example: Michael wants to study intensive Spanish for a semester, but would prefer to be with other Texas Tech students. He is looking for a program with a lot of support.
Reciprocal Exchange programs allow students to pay TTU tuition and fees and enroll in a university abroad. Generally, students on exchange programs are responsible for their own living expenses, airfare and spending money. Students wishing to participate in an exchange program must be independent and able to function with little support from the host local university.
Example: Jeff is interested in spending a significant amount of time abroad. He is very independent, and wants to make his own plans for his coursework and his travels. He is ok with possibly being the only student from Texas Tech at his host university.
Affiliate programs offer the widest range of programs to TTU students. All programs listed on the Study Abroad website have been approved by Texas Tech and students may choose programs that satisfy major, minor, core or elective requirements, as well as internships or research abroad. Students on affiliate programs do not pay TTU tuition, but pay the program directly.
Example: Brittany wants to study abroad with other US students, but not necessarily from Texas Tech. She wants a program that will support her from start to finish, and help her with all the arrangements from curriculum to housing.