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Psychology
Why YOU Should Study Abroad
A major in Psychology provides a strong foundation for many different career fields. Studying abroad is a great way to differentiate your experience from other students when applying for graduate school or a job after graduation.
Study abroad programs provide an opportunity for you to develop a valuable skill set that can set you apart from other applicants by:
- Exposing you to unique differences in the human condition worldwide;
- Expanding your knowledge of other cultures;
- Challenging you to adapt and persevere under sometimes difficult and harsh social and cultural circumstances;
- Improving your language and cross cultural skills for effective communication across populations;
- Enhancing your portfolio of experience through the kinds of hands-on research and community-based opportunities you will need to compete and succeed in today’s workforce.
A Message from the Department of Psychology
“Study abroad: what a great idea! In addition to expanding your understanding of psychology, studying abroad is a wonderful way to see the world, experience different styles of education, take in a new culture, set yourself apart from other applicants to grad school or career opportunities, make lifelong friends and develop personally. Students that study abroad display an appreciation of the rich human diversity the world offers and communicate their enthusiasm for seeking new challenges and succeeding in novel environments and circumstances. Study abroad provides a great complement to the education and experience you gain on campus, and will be a highlight of your education at ASU.”
- Dr. Steven Neuberg, Foundation Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychology
Planning Your Program
When to study abroad
When to study abroad
Psychology majors are fortunate as they have a lot of flexibility in course scheduling. This allows our majors the opportunity (in most circumstances) to study abroad any semester after their first year. The Psychology Advising Office’s recommendation as to the process of planning and then studying abroad is as follows:
| Year | Recommended Student Action |
|---|---|
| Year 1 Planning |
|
| Years 2-4 Study Abroad! |
|
General Advice
General Advice
Advice from the Department of Psychology
As a Psychology major, most students have the flexibility to take many elective courses during their degree program. It is recommended that students save some of these elective courses for their time studying abroad. This will allow for courses to be taken toward a minor, certificate, or just as fun electives while studying abroad. If major coursework is needed, it is recommend that students choose from one of the recommended study abroad programs below that offer Psychology coursework. Students are always encouraged to consult with a Psychology Advisor prior to choosing where and when to study abroad to determine the best time to study abroad and which coursework is most appropriate to complete while abroad.
Advice from the Study Abroad Office
Be sure to view the list of recommended steps for getting started on your study abroad journey.
Attend a Study Abroad 101 info session to get all the basic information from a Study Abroad Student Recruiter on program types, eligibility, housing, finances, searching for and choosing a program and the application process. Discover times and locations.
Attend a Financing Your Study Abroad workshop to get information on program fees and deadlines, how financial aid can apply to study abroad, how to utilize community-based funding and tips on finding and applying for study abroad scholarships. Discover times and locations.
Meet With Your Academic Advisor
Meet With Your Academic Advisor
How to make an appointment
- Schedule an appointment online. You will need your ASURITE User ID and password to sign in.
- Call (480) 965-7258 to schedule an appointment by phone.
- Visit an advisor during open advising hours in Psychology Room 202. View our open advising hours on our Advising Calendar.
Key questions to ask
- What are my remaining degree requirements?
- How many upper-division credits do I still need to complete for my degree?
- How many elective credits (lower vs. upper division) do I have left to complete my major?
- What remaining prerequisites must I fulfill, and how will study abroad impact my progress?
- Which of my remaining degree requirements could I complete abroad? Are there any that I cannottake abroad?
- Can I receive academic credit for an internship abroad?
- Are there any in-residence requirements I need to be aware of before I go abroad?
Meet With the Study Abroad Office
Meet With the Study Abroad Office
Meeting with a Peer Advisor
Peer Advisors are ASU students who have studied abroad on various types of programs and who are here to help you get started on a journey of your own! They are prepared to help you understand the different types of programs offered, narrow down your program options, guide you on the application process, discuss program costs, and speak about student life abroad.
No appointments are necessary to meet with a Peer Advisor.
- Stop by the Study Abroad Office anytime Monday through Friday from 8:00am - 5:00pm.
- Contact a Peer Advisor by email.
- Call a Peer Advisor at (480) 965-5965.
Meeting with an International Coordinator
Your International Coordinator can answer your questions about specific programs, can talk you through the application process, and can help you find funding resources for your particular program on the Study Abroad Office website. Your International Coordinator is happy to meet with you multiple times to answer your questions, and he/she would be glad to schedule meetings in person, by phone, or via Skype.
- Find the name of your International Coordinator listed on the Study Abroad Office webpage for your program of interest.
- Schedule an appointment online. Click on the International Coordinator name for your program of interest and follow the prompts to schedule your appointment.
- Visit an International Coordinator during walk-in hours in Interdisciplinary B (INTDSB) Room 255.
Key questions to ask the Study Abroad Office
- What are the eligibility requirements for my program(s) or interest?
- What is involved in the application for my program(s) of interest? Is admission to the program competitive?
- How will I get ASU credit and grades for the courses I take abroad?
- What courses are available on my program? How can I get courses approved for my program(s) of interest?
- What is the cost of participating in my program(s) of interest? What do I need to consider in preparing an estimated budget for my program(s) of interest, and what expenses do I need to plan for up front?
- Where can I find more information about scholarships for study abroad?
Research Your Funding Options
Research Your Funding Options
Studying abroad is an investment in your future. Like any other type of investment, it requires careful planning and management. However, the personal, academic, and professional rewards that you will gain from this experience will last a lifetime. You should carefully consider costs, budgets, and financing when selecting and preparing for your experience abroad.
Review Cost Sheet
You can find a link to your program’s Cost Sheet near the top of the Study Abroad Office webpage for your program. The Cost Sheet will highlight the costs that are billed to your student account as well as additional estimated costs that are not billed to your student account but that you might expect to spend while abroad. Be sure to note what expenses are included in the fees charged by the Study Abroad Office, and remember to budget additional money for airfare, passport and visa fees, and personal expenses since these are not included in any Program Fee.
Research Funding
Once you have reviewed the Cost Sheet for your program and are aware of the costs you might expect to spend on your program, you can begin to make a plan for financing your study abroad program. You can receive funding for studying abroad through financial aid, scholarships and grants, and community-based fundraising efforts. We encourage you to:
Speak to Financial Aid and Scholarship Services (FASS) about financial aid;
Use our Scholarships and Grants page to search for general study abroad scholarships and scholarships that are unique to your program;
Read the Community-Based Funding Guide for creative ways that past ASU students have funding their programs.
Financial Aid
We encourage you to speak to a Financial Aid Counselor, who can help you figure out how your financial aid might be applied to our study abroad program. Be sure to seek answers to the following questions from a Financial Aid Counselor:
How do loans work for study abroad? What kinds of aid/loans do I currently receive, and are there any restrictions on this aid if I study abroad?
Have I reached the maximum of (insert name of) loan allowed per academic year?
When will funds be released for my semester of participation?
How will additional scholarships impact my ASU financial aid?
Major-Specific Scholarships
The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences offers study abroad scholarships for which you may apply.
Community-Based Funding
Check out the Study Abroad Office website to learn more about community-based funding, including tips and tricks for crowd-source funding. There is funding out there… you just have to ask!
Attend Financing Workshop
Would you like help learning about your financing options? We offer bi-weekly in-person and online Financing Your Study Abroad Workshops. Join us in the MU on Monday afternoons or log in through Adobe Connect (register here) on Thursdays to learn how to finance your study abroad program through financial aid, scholarships and grants, and community-based funding.
Helpful Links
“Studying abroad was a highlight of my college experience. It broadened my view of the world, made lifelong contacts on the other side of the world, and learned more about myself than I thought was possible. Studying abroad will truly change your life for the better, so if given the opportunity to do so, DO IT! You won't regret it!”
- Beth Rosenberg, Psychology Major
“Studying abroad was nothing less than a thrilling adventure. Learning by doing, by seeing, by tasting, taught me more than I ever imagined.”
- Michelle Marji, Psychology Graduate
Recommended Programs
Although Psychology majors can participate in any ASU study abroad program, the Department of Psychology recommends the following programs.
Monash University
Program Type: Exchange
Available Terms: Academic Year, Calendar Year, Fall, Spring
Country: Australia
Unique Features: Located in Melbourne, Monash has five campuses in Australia at which ASU students can study. With over 70,000 students in total, Monash also welcomes more than 1,000 study abroad exchange students each year. One of Australia’s leading research universities, Monash offers thousands of course offerings, including a number of upper division psychology classes. When not in class, students can enjoy Melbourne’s restaurants, sports, beautiful parks, and thriving nightlife.
National University of Singapore
Program Type: Exchange
Available Terms: Academic Year, Fall, Spring
Country: Singapore
Unique Features: A leading global university center in Asia, the National University of Singapore (NUS) offers a global approach to education and research, with a focus on Asian perspectives and expertise. Its transformative education includes a broad-based curriculum underscored by multi-disciplinary courses and cross-faculty enrichment, as well as special programs which allow students to realize their potential. Singapore, which houses populations around the world that coexist together, serves as an excellent learning environment for a student studying Psychology.
University of Leeds
Program Type: Exchange
Available Terms: Academic Year, Spring
Country: United Kingdom
Unique Features: The University of Leeds is a Red brick university located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. Established in 1904, it is one of the largest higher education institutions in the UK, and students studying at the university are taught alongside local and international students. Renowned globally for the quality of its teaching and research, the University of Leeds is a traditional campus setting that is a 10-minute walk to the city center.
ISA: Liberal Arts, Business & Irish Studies at the National University of Ireland, Galway
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Academic Year, Fall, Spring
Country: Ireland
Unique Features: National University of Ireland, Galway is a leader in research and teaching and offers coursework in psychology that can be taken with local and international students. Savor the community feel of Galway as people stroll along its pedestrian streets, which are framed by colorfully painted buildings and street musicians who serenade onlookers with a combination of traditional Irish music and contemporary songs.
ISA: Courses with Locals in Multiple Disciplines at Korea University
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Fall, Spring
Country: South Korea
Unique Features: Korea University is a world-class institution featuring a dynamic educational environment, beautiful and conveniently located campus, and top-quality student facilities. It prides itself not only on being a progressive and globally conscious institution, but also one that plays a role in preserving and developing Korean culture. Take Psychology courses taught in English, and explore the natural beauty of the country along with its royal palaces, Buddhist temples, sleek skyscrapers, stellar subway system, and cutting edge technology.
ISA: Courses with Locals in Multiple Disciplines at the University of Westminster
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Academic Year, Fall, Spring
Country: United Kingdom
Unique Features: Experience an urban campus located in central London! Courses are taught at the University of Westminster by local university professors, and study abroad participants will take classes alongside British and other international students. Of the approximately 22,000 students at University of Westminster, more than 6,000 are international students from over 160 countries. Psychology is a popular area of study at Westminster, so students can take a wide variety of Psychology courses while studying abroad on this program.
University of New South Wales
Program Type: Exchange
Available Terms: Academic Year, Calendar Year, Fall, Spring
Country: Australia
Unique Features: Known as Australia’s most international campus, University of New South Wales (UNSW) is located in Sydney, Australia. Students living in Sydney can experience the famous Sydney Harbour, distinct neighborhoods, fantastic beaches, and amazing museums; in fact, Sydney has repeatedly been voted as one of the most liveable cities in the world! At UNSW, students can take a variety of classes, including courses in Psychology.
CIEE: Berlin Open Campus Program
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Academic Year, Fall, Spring
Country: Germany
Unique Features: The Berlin Open Campus program offers maximum flexibility to engage and experience Berlin. Pair one, two or three six-week blocks for your perfect amount of intensive study and cultural engagement. No matter how you build your program, you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant Kreuzberg district – a hub for the arts, techno, and the world’s digital currency boom. Plus, you’ll have plenty of chances to see Berlin and Germany up close during included excursions and multi-day study tours.
GIE: A Taste of Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic
Program Type: Global Intensive Experience
Available Term: Spring Break
Country: Dominican Republic
Unique Features: This program is designed to offer participants a "taste of Peace Corps." Participants work side-by-side with currently serving Peace Corps Volunteers to implement high-impact Peace Corps-style projects in Dominican communities. Students will experience a simulation of Peace Corps life in regards to professional work, community engagement, and cultural exchange. A home base is established in Playa Las Canas on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, and students make day trips to nearby community service sites for hands-on learning excursions.
ISA: Business, Hospitality, Design & Liberal Arts at Florence University of the Arts
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Academic Year, Fall, Spring
Country: Italy
Unique Features: The Florence University of the Arts (FUA) was founded in 1997 as one of Italy's leading private institutions for higher education. The university has taken an international approach to provide education on a global scale, with over 40 countries represented in its student body each academic year. Students who have not completed a college semester of Italian language are strongly encouraged to take an Italian language course on this program. Italian courses are offered from the Beginner to Advanced level.
USAC: Alicante, Spain Program
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Academic Year, Fall, Spring
Country: Spain
Unique Features: Improve your Spanish through intensive language courses, immersion in Spanish culture, volunteering opportunities, internships, direct enrollment at the university, workshops, conversation partner program, and excursions. Nestled on the southeastern coast of Spain, Alicante overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. Throughout your time in Alicante, join in local celebrations, open air markets, and the lively atmosphere of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
IFSA-Butler: Psychology in English in Buenos Aires
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Fall, Spring
Country: Argentina
Unique Features: Take psychology classes in English while exploring Argentina, the country boasting the highest number of psychologists per capita in the world. Students can take integrated university classes with local degree-seeking students and study Spanish language at all levels to make the most of interactions with locals. While on this program, students will live and learn in the cosmopolitan capital city of Buenos Aires, also called the "Paris of South America" for its blending of European charm with South American warmth.
Yonsei University
Program Type: Exchange
Available Terms: Fall, Spring
Country: South Korea
Unique Features: Yonsei is one of Asia’s most respected higher educational institutions and the oldest private university in Korea. Living in Seoul, South Korea, students will experience the undeniable heritage and tourism scene: fortresses, temples, shrines, palaces, and ceremonies compete for attention, while modern skyscrapers, glitzy shopping malls, and multi-media and entertainment complexes, including the world-famous K-Pop scene around the Itaewon, Jamsil and Namsan districts capture the imagination.
CIEE: Arts and Sciences at Dublin City University
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Academic Year, Fall, Spring
Country: Ireland
Unique Features: Established in the early 1980s, Dublin City University (DCU) has approximately 10,000 students. DCU offers its students multidisciplinary programs, and study abroad students are fully integrated with both Irish and other international students. DCU is a 20- to 30-minute bus ride from downtown Dublin, and public transportation is easily accessible. CIEE participants make the most of their program through CIEE-guided excursions, field study programs, volunteering, conversation exchanges, and special events.
ASU: London: Plague Pits and Body Snatchers: History of Health and Disease in a Global City
Program Type: Faculty-Directed
Available Term: Summer
Country: United Kingdom
Unique Features: This trans-disciplinary program explores London and the surroundings, with day trips to Stonehenge and Oxford. The emphasis is on the city as our classroom, exploring castles, museums, streets and parks to discover how the city's past and present are connected. Some of the fields we draw on to do this include urban studies, history, global health, anthropology, science and technology studies, geography and bioarchaeology.
Semester at Sea
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Fall, Spring
Countries: Multi-Country
Unique Features: Semester itineraries traverse the globe and make port in interesting and diverse destinations that allow students to experience local culture. Port stays provide engaging learning opportunities through in-country field programs and labs as well as independent excursions. Your primary home away from home will be the MV World Odyssey. Semester at Sea's passenger ship is outfitted as a globe-exploring university; a living-learning community that provides a platform for discussion, coursework, and deep connections all while traveling to new locations.
USAC: Chiang Mai, Thailand Program
Program Type: Partnership
Available Terms: Academic Year, Fall, Spring, Summer
Country: Thailand
Unique Features: Experience the charm of exotic and ancient culture while you live and study in a center of Thai trade, tourism, and academic activity. Visit lovely mountain regions featuring rivers, rainforests, national parks, nature preserves, and tea and coffee plantations. Enjoy cultural immersion activities such as visiting local Buddhist temples, taking training classes in Thai Kickboxing or Traditional Thai Massage, and practicing Thai with locals.
Key Contacts and Resources
Department of Psychology
Map Location: Psychology Room 202
Phone: (480) 965-7258
Email: psych.advisor@asu.edu
Helpful Links
Study Abroad Office
Map Location: Interdisciplinary B (INTDSB) Room 255
Phone: (480) 965-5065
Helpful Links