Global Opportunities The College of Arts & Sciences

As a student in the College, you are encouraged to participate in internship and study programs around the world. Through these global experiences, you will have the unparalleled opportunity to learn about different cultures, gain career-advancing skills, and develop a more sophisticated global perspective. Penn offers a diverse portfolio of global opportunities that enable you to find a program that integrates into your major and meets your goals and interests.

Joan abroad in Ireland
Student Voices
Joan Dartey - College '23

"The courses I took at Trinity College Dublin provided me with new perspectives in both subjects, while simultaneously fulfilling Penn’s requirements for both my major and minor. I was also able to explore other interests I had, a goal that was extremely important to me - for instance, I enrolled in a classical studies course that I quite enjoyed. Being abroad also helped to advance my cultural fluency and sensitivities, which will aid in the international development work I hope to pursue in the near future."

Opportunities at a Glance
Semester Study Abroad

Establish yourself in a new global community through extended study for a semester or year. This is the opportunity to embrace and adapt to new challenges, collaborate with people from different backgrounds, and gain experience that you will carry with you in your career and throughout your life. Penn Abroad partners with institutions around the globe and collaborates with the College of Arts & Sciences to offer a variety of programs for students across majors. There are nearly 100 approved programs that offer the opportunity to earn academic credit in the College of Arts & Sciences.

Global Research & Internship Program

The Global Research & Internship Program (GRIP) enhances your career potential through life-changing global experience. This unique program provides outstanding undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to intern or conduct research outside of the United States for 8 to 12 weeks over the summer. The program offers pre-approved placements in a wide variety of fields and destinations. 

Penn Global Seminars

Penn Global Seminars (PGS) combine intensive semester-long study with a short-term travel component that deepens your understanding of concepts discussed in the classroom. These seminars enable you to take full advantage of essential global learning opportunities regardless of your year or major. The Penn faculty leaders design seminars that travel to unique locations, which offer significant opportunity for cultural exchange and immersion.

Penn Summer Abroad

Penn Summer Abroad offers you the opportunity to study in exciting international locations for a span of weeks while still getting the full cultural experience. Dig deep into topics that excite you with Penn faculty experts, meet peers who share your interests and discover new ideas and ways of life around the globe.

Other Programs & Resources

Your major department may also have programs or recommend specific opportunities that fit well for your area of study. You are encouraged to visit your department's website and connect with faculty and advisors to learn about additional opportunities abroad.

As you explore program options and plan for a global experience, there are many additional resources to guide you through the process. Here are some general resources to learn more about programs, review eligibility requirements and read about the student experience:

Planning & Resources

CAS Study Abroad Guide 

Events & Information Sessions

Questions?  Contact us to learn more, ask questions, or set an appointment to meet an advisor.