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Many students choose to go on a non-UM program each year. This requires
careful planning, so be certain to talk with an RLL advisor as you make your
decisions. To make an advising appointment, call (734) 764-5344, or stop by 4108
MLB. Also, be sure to check out the OIP's
Non-UM Programs FAQ .
Searching for a non-UM program can be a daunting task, as nearly
every university in the country has programs abroad. A good place
to starton the web is the Institute
of International Education.
Attributes of a great program:
- Sponsored by a North-American university or college (a degree-granting institution)
Avoid programs with names such as "Language Institute," as these tend to provide basic language
instruction rather than upper-level courses.
- Allows students to take courses in a host university
Many programs offer courses only in their own center, or in a separate facility (sometimes a
branch of a host university). The better programs provide a few courses of their own, while
also encouraging students to take courses in a host university.
Taking regular courses in a host university offers opportunities to become acquainted with
students from the host country, as well as to experience a different academic system. Look for programs that offer classes with students from the host country, rather than courses exclusively for foreign students.
- Offers a sufficient number of advanced courses
Many programs appeal to students with varying language abilities, and consequently, may primarily
offer lower-level courses. Some students have difficulty finding programs that offer enough
advanced courses. Look for programs that provide a substantial list of advanced courses (including
descriptions) in their promotional material, keeping in mind that only some of these courses may be
offered in a given semester. Also request syllabi, if they are available in advance. Before you decide
on a program, show these course descriptions (and syllabi, if available) to a RLL advisor,
who can indicate which courses could potentially count at an advanced level.
- Provides home-stays with a host family
Living with a host family will allow greater opportunities for everyday language use and immersion in
the culture. Most programs do provide home-stays, and a few place students in residence halls with
students from the host country. Avoid programs that place students in segregated residence halls with
other North-American students.
Special note about non-UM summer study abroad programs:
Non-UM summer programs differ from semester/year-abroad programs in two important
respects:
- Many universities are not in session, so you may not have the
opportunity to take courses in a host university.
- Most summer programs focus on language and culture and offer few (if any)
courses at the advanced level.
In selecting a summer program, look for those that offer more advanced
courses. Show the course descriptions to an RLL advisor,
who can indicate whether they may count as advanced-level courses.
Questions? Contact rll.undergrad@umich.edu.
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