The Study Abroad Office is located in the International Programs and Services Office in Whitesitt 118. Our office serves PSU students who would like to study abroad for a summer, semester, or academic year and PSU faculty who would like to lead short-term programs.
Pittsburg State University offers three pathways to study abroad: Faculty-Led Programs, Exchange Programs, and Affiliate Programs. Faculty-led trips are guided by PSU faculty, typically take place during summer or spring break, and are usually the most affordable option at under $4,000. Exchange programs partner PSU with universities around the world, allowing students to pay PSU tuition and use financial aid while studying for a semester or full year. For more information or to explore available programs, contact the Study Abroad Coordinator in Whitesitt 118.
"It is so hard for me to pick my favorite part of the trip. I think I had a moment in every city where I was awestruck. In Rome, the Pantheon and Roman Forum impressed me with their age and history. In Florence, I was held captive by the Primavera and Duomo. In Paris, we saw the Eiffel Tower light up on a Seine River cruise. In Vatican City, I marveled at the beauty and height of the arched ceiling and Michelangelo's work in the Sistine Chapel. Despite all the life changing moments I described, if I had to pick one thing that stuck with me it has to be the friendships I gained and grew from this experience. I was truly blessed to live life with everyone on this trip for nine days. I definitely recommend studying abroad to other students. The experience was life changing for me. I feel like I have a greater appreciation for my own community after seeing such amazing places in Europe. I feel strengthened in my faith and my bonds with my friends."-Paul Worsley
"I chose to be apart of the study abroad trip to Germany/Austria/Prague this summer because I wanted to experience with my own eyes and emotions the places from the past. I just earned my bachelor's degree in history and have always wanted to visit the places from the Holocaust to find some kind of grasp on the enormity of it. Just reading about it does not give you that, seeing and feeling those places are truly a one of a kind experience. Our group was the most incredible pack of people I have ever met. We all still talk and find time to hang out after this experience." -Tami Burt
"I chose to go abroad because I've always wanted to travel and since I am an ESOL minor, I felt it would be beneficial to see other countries before I fully decide which one I want to teach English in. I an still fully set on the one I chose, but I still had some learning moments. I went on the France and Italy trip and I signed up for another because of how much fun we had. My favorite moment was going to the Colosseum in Rome, since I have always been a history buff and it had been the main thing I had been interested in. It was awesome to see pieces of history in person, and to get the opportunity to learn more about it. The professors we went with were extremely helpful and they did their best to keep everyone safe as well as let us have some free time to do what we wanted. It was overall a wonderful experience and I am excited for my next one." -Kara Stewart
"I chose to go abroad because I am nearing the end of my program and wanted to do something that connected me with other students and provided an opportunity I will not receive after graduating. My favorite part was people watching. I liked watching the different behaviors and lifestyles. As a psychology major it helped me nurture the cultural sensitivity that a practitioner needs. The cafes in Rome and Florence fulfilled my childhood fantasies of reading in a beautiful foreign location. It was truly so lively in these locations and the crepes in Paris were amazing. Can you tell that the food was a favorite of mine as well? The architecture was beautiful, and each corner provided an opportunity to learn. I strongly recommend taking a trip abroad not only because of the experience, but because this seemed like the best time of my life to experience life abroad. The cheaper cost and pre-planning were a benefit as well." -Madison Wilkinson
"I chose to go abroad because it was something I have always wanted to do, and I thought the Germany trip was the best option for me. The best part about the trip was the fact that I came back with so many new friends. It was an opportunity for me to step out of my comfort zone and experience new things with completely new people. I have too many favorite moments from my study abroad that it's hard to choose, however, I really cherish all of our group dinners when we were in a new city. Luckily for me I was able to travel, make friends, and experience new cultures all while earning my international experience credit towards my degree!" -Emma Getsinger
"I chose to study abroad as PSU student not only for an improved outlook in my future profession, but I also did this to open myself up to a new environment and culture. I took on this journey so that I could further grow into my young adult life and create experiences that can only be achieved by taking a step out into the unknown world. Simple memories from walking through the old, uneven, rocky streets that might get you lost, to stopping by cafes for a quit bite between classes, to the days of making new friends from all different walks of life; these are the kind of memories that will stick with me forever. My time spent in Salamanca, Spain has helped me tremendously in fortifying my Spanish speaking and retention skills. It’s also provided me with the opportunity to receive the International Knowledge Certificate (IKE) for an addition on my Resume. When being provided the opportunity, studying abroad should a no brainer for anyone that desires a little bit of a change in their life. My favorite memory from living in Salamanca, Spain was when my friends and I would meet each other at Los Jesuitas park. It's a large serene park with many walking paths and plenty of green space to bring a blanket and enjoy the afternoon. Some days we had planned a picnic, other days we sat and chatted, read, did homework, or played some games. If you study abroad in Salamanca, you must visit Los Jesuitas." -Logan Sandifer
Returnees often return to the States with an increased desire to travel again. Sound familiar? The following programs help you stay global both on the PSU campus and by returning abroad.
Study Abroad Again
Studying abroad can be addicting! Check out these other great program options. Summer language progras, teaching abroad, internships...the opportunities are endless!
IKE
Want to internationalize your degree at PSU? Sign up to receive the IKE (International Knowledge & Experience) Certificate.
You'll need to complete 2 of the 3 components to receive the certificate. Bonus: studying abroad is one component, so you're already half way there!
Pitt Pals
Want to make more international friends? Want to show international students what it's like to be at PSU?
Join Pitt Pals! Sign up for a semester and be a friend to an international student. Eat lunch, grab coffee, go to a football game, watch a movie, etc.!
Fulbright U.S. Student Program
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is a prestigious scholarship that offers graduating students opportunities to teach abroad or continue their education. Students wishing to apply for a Fulbright must first apply to PSU's Fulbright Campus Committee.
Applications are due a year before the desired start date. Students submit their application and essays to PSU's Campus Committee and then apply to the U.S. Student Program by the national deadline in October.
Other prestigious scholarships include:
Mitchell Scholarships to Ireland
Peace Corps
Volunteer abroad for two years after graduation in one of the following sectors: agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health, youth in development.
More information on Peace CorpsTeach Abroad
There are opportunities available to teach abroad, usually after graduation.
Some opportunities include:
Fulbright Grants and English Teaching Assistantships
Kansas and Paraguay Partnership
Teach English in Spain with our exchange school UCLM
Affiliate companies also offer some teaching opportunities. For example: CIEE
Students interested in teaching abroad should consider PSU's TESOL certificate to be a more competitive applicant.
Are you a PSU alum, faculty & staff, or student who studied abroad & loved the experience? Help offset the cost of study abroad programs for future students. Proceeds go to student scholarships. Questions? Email studyabroad@pittstate.edu