Are you considering including a study abroad experience in your time as a GDB major? Here are some tips on how to find a study abroad program that suits your needs and interests. 

The Global Learning Hub (https://globallearning.ucdavis.edu/) is home to details about all the global learning experiences UC Davis has to offer, so be sure to check out their website for more information about specific programs.

Sample Programs in Biological & Health Sciences:

These programs are suggestions, not an exhaustive list. Courses, locations, and when they are offered may vary year to year, check out the Global Learning Hub’s website for more details.

Summer Abroad:

• Microbiology in Europe’s Capital- Brussels (Belgium)
• Bio Sci 2A on the Emerald Isle (Ireland)
• Science of the Mind (Italy)
• Life Sciences in Japan
• History of Cancer (Spain)
• Microbiology Lab in the Kingdom of Smiles (Thailand)

Summer Abroad Internships:

• Global Health (Bolivia, Ghana, Philippines, South Africa)
• Psychology (New Zealand, Spain, UK)
• Social Impact and Public Health (Virtual, Worldwide)

Quarter Abroad:

• Latinx Health Internships in Oaxaca, Mexico (spring)
• Pharmaceutical Chemistry in Taiwan (spring)

Study Abroad vs Internships vs Research Abroad:

Study Abroad: These experiences can take place over the summer or over a quarter and allow you to complete courses while abroad that can be used to fulfill GE or major requirements. One popular study abroad with GDB students is Microbiology in Belgium, because it allows you to fulfill major requirements while abroad for the summer.

Internships: Summer abroad internships allow students to gain hands-on experience in diverse fields. These internships also allow students to earn academic credit. There are a variety of Global Health Internships that allow students to understand the challenges of providing healthcare in resource scarce communities and to traditionally underserved populations. You may list one Global Health Internship as a restricted elective. 

Research Abroad: Engage in research at an institution abroad! This can be an affordable way to engage in research since many programs charge no program fee so you are only responsible for travel and living costs, and many offer scholarships for these expenses. These programs can be very competitive so visit these programs websites for application requirements.

Choosing which program is best for you can be challenging, but understanding the different benefits each program has can help you decide what will further your progress as a GDB major and help you best prepare for your future. Utilize the Global Learning Hub’s Search Tool to narrow down your options.

Will studying abroad set me behind?

Studying abroad will not set you behind, many opportunities listed above can be done during the summer so they will not interfere with the academic school year at all, allowing you to keep your normal schedule. Studying abroad can help you complete major requirements as well, such as microbiology, biology, fulfill REs, or you can even complete your practicum abroad, allowing you to stay on top of your graduation timeline. While planning your study abroad experience, be sure to book an appointment with a GDB advisor so we can help you adjust your plan.

Scholarships and Funding:

Students can also be eligible for support from the financial aid office for a study abroad experience that provides at least 6 units, you can view a financial aid estimate here. There are also awards, fellowships, grants, scholarships, and funds available to help offset costs. The Global Learning Hub includes a funding search tool to help you find funding that fits your eligibility.

Feel free to reach out to the Global Learning Hub, the Financial Aid Office, and GDB Advising for any questions regarding study abroad programs!