Student holding a picture of herself

Study Abroad

Expand Your Education Through Study Abroad

Studying abroad offers a meaningful way to expand your education. PennWest supports students in exploring opportunities that align with their academic plans and personal goals. Programs are available for a few weeks, a full semester, or an academic year.

Program Options

PennWest offers short- and long-term, for-credit study abroad programs in locations around the world. These programs are open to students across disciplines and are designed to fit within existing degree pathways.

General Info

Short-term experiences typically run two to 10 weeks and are offered during:

  • Summer
  • Winter break
  • Spring break

Faculty members lead these programs, providing guidance and academic continuity throughout the experience.

Student Teaching in Spain

Student teaching abroad is an opportunity to:

  • Gain international student teaching experience
  • Learn culturally responsive teaching philosophies
  • Develop awareness and skills to teach in an internationally- diverse classroom
  • Learn how to build rapport and communities in other cultures
  • Add global experience to your resume

If you are interested in student teaching abroad, please email internationaled@pennwest.edu.

Long-Term Study Abroad Programs

Longer programs allow for deeper cultural immersion and may be completed through approved partner institutions.

There are several long-term study abroad opportunities available throughPennWest, including exchange programs and partnerships with third-party providers. Students should email internationaled@pennwest.edu to schedule a meeting with a member of the International Education Office staff to learn about options and the application process.

Students who participate in an exchange program for one semester or an entire academic year pay PennWest tuition and fees to study abroad.

Don’t Wait!

You should meet with the International Education Office your freshman or sophomore year to start planning a study abroad program!

Where Students Go

PennWest students participate in programs across a range of global locations. Recent destinations include, but are not limited to:

  • England and Scotland
  • Italy and Ireland
  • China and Japan
  • Dominican Republic

Options vary each year based on faculty-led programs and partnerships.

Guidance and Support

The International Education Office provides clear guidance at every step of the process. Support includes:

  • Overview of available programs
  • Explanation of PennWest study abroad policies
  • Assistance with program approval
  • Coordination of transfer credits

Academic advisors also work with students individually to match goals with the right program, considering:

  • Location preferences
  • Academic requirements
  • Budget and funding options
  • Preparation and timelines

International Education Office services

Getting Started

Getting started is straightforward. Students can request more information and begin planning by completing the study abroad interest form. The International Education Office will follow up with next steps and personalized guidance.

Complete the Study Abroad Interest Form

Upcoming 2027 Programs

Student Experiences

 

Scotland Experience

Large group of PennWest study abroad students pose in front of a castle in Scotland.

"As a non-traditional student, studying abroad in Scotland was an experience I will always treasure. Immersing myself in the culture, history, and traditions gave me a perspective I could never gain from a textbook alone. The trip pushed me outside of my comfort zone and reminded me that learning and growth can happen at any stage of life. I would highly recommend this opportunity to any student.  It is truly life-changing and worth every step of the journey, while earning credits toward your degree." 

—Tracy Kessler, PennWest student

 

Spain Experience

Students and hosts enjoy outdoor meal in Spain"This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Spain through EF and PennWest Edinboro. Although I was initially anxious about traveling to and communicating in a new country, the program’s structure and support made the experience feel seamless. I loved the balance between guided activities, tours, and independent exploration, which led to unforgettable memories. Traveling abroad helped me increase my confidence, my ability to adapt, deepen my cultural awareness and admiration for cultural traditions, and taught me new skills to help overcome language barriers. I’m truly grateful for the friendships and memories I made on this trip and highly recommend an EF study abroad program to others."

— Lucy Higley, PennWest student

 

 

Your Future, Within Reach.

With flexible pathways, real-world learning, and a supportive community, PennWest helps you take the next step forward—confidently and on your terms.