We know how many questions can come up when you are considering study abroad or have committed to a study abroad program. We are here to help answer these questions throughout the entire process.
Why should nurses study abroad?
Nursing students who take part in overseas learning opportunities can gain a deeper understanding of other cultures, particularly with respect to the clinical setting, which provides new insights about healthcare delivery—both at home and abroad.
Indeed, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) reminds us that “the environments in which professional nurses practice have become more diverse and more global in nature,” and study abroad can prepare nursing students to meet the challenges of future practice in these environments (AACN, 2008, p. 5).
Pitt Nursing students can use study abroad credits toward not only their program requirements, minor requirements, and language acquisition, but also learning certificates such as the Global Health Certificate and the National Preparedness and Homeland Security Certificate.
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2008). The essentials of baccalaureate education for professional nursing practice. Washington, D.C.: AACN. Retrieved from http://www.aacnnursing.org/portals/42/publications/baccessentials08.pdf.
Who do I talk to about study abroad?
Please contact the Program Manager (Lynnea Lombardi, LEL164@pitt.edu) for nursing-related global experiences and study abroad programs.
What type of study abroad programs are available?
There are five types of programs available. You can review them all here. You should meet with your Study Abroad Program Manager and Academic Advisor to discuss which type of program is best for you.
Can I fulfill general education, senior special topics, major, minor or certificate requirements abroad?
Generally speaking, yes. Your Academic Advisor can help you determine what requirements, if any, will be fulfilled by taking courses abroad. The Study Abroad Program Manager for a given study abroad program cannot make these determinations.
Are there any programs specifically related to Nursing or the Health Sciences?
We offer several healthcare-related programs for nursing students, but you also can attend non-healthcare- related programs. We recommend that you meet with your Academic Advisor as soon as possible so she or he can help you plan for the best program and best time to go abroad.
When is the best semester for nursing students to go abroad?
All students first must earn a minimum of 24 Pitt credits before being eligible to study abroad. Many Nursing students take advantage of Summer Term and Maymester programs. Although you can go abroad during any term (after earning 24 credits), participating in a study abroad program during a Fall or Spring Term will interrupt your curriculum sequence and extend your time to graduation.
How much does it cost to study abroad?
To learn more about the financial costs of study abroad at Pitt, please visit the Pitt Study Abroad finance overview webpage.
Are there scholarships available for study abroad?
Yes. See the Pitt Study Abroad scholarships webpage for a list of available scholarships and their applications. Keep in mind that scholarships for study abroad are competitively awarded and will not cover the entire cost of a given program. You should make alternate plans for paying for your program in the event that you are not awarded a scholarship.