Study abroad

A traditional Study Abroad program involves one quarter to a full year in a host institution. Therefore, it is best to complete most of your foundation (science and math) and FISH core courses before you leave. Most students go abroad during their junior year.

Most credits you earn abroad can be counted toward your UW degree if you choose a school that offers courses in aquatic science or marine biology, and if plan your degree carefully with the SAFS adviser. You would then return to the UW campus for your senior year, complete your capstone project, and meet any remaining requirements.

Attend an informational meeting through the International Programs and Exchanges Office or attend the annual Study Abroad Fair. You should gather information about a year before you want to go abroad – many programs have early deadlines. Meet with the SAFS adviser to determine which program might best compliment your UW degree once you have shortlisted potential institutions.

The UW offers a unique and exciting short-term program, known as the Exploration Seminars. These seminars are held throughout the world, are usually offered between Summer and Autumn quarters, and are reasonably priced. The broad range of subjects offered includes the natural sciences. Many of these courses may be counted toward degree requirements. Exploration Seminars are especially appropriate for students who have limited remaining time in the degree program, but are still interested in experiencing another country.

The UW tries to make Study Abroad affordable for all students. Financial Aid may often be available, and various scholarships and grants support these activities. Please click here to learn more about funding options.

The University of Washington belongs to a consortium of 180 U.S. colleges and universities that have formed the National Student Exchange. Students who have at least a 2.5 GPA may attend another institution for a quarter or more, and pay either in-state tuition at their host university or pay their tuition at UW. This mechanism allows students to take classes that the UW does not normally offer. Students working closely with the SAFS Adviser can ensure that their exchange courses will count toward UW graduation requirements.

Other additional programs permit students to take college credit that may be transferred into the UW. Some opportunities are listed on the marine biology website. The SAFS adviser will also inform students about these opportunities as they arise.

• SEA Semester at Woods Hole
• University of Montana Landscape and Livelihood Program
• Oregon Institute of Marine Biology Summer Program
• Wild Rockies Field Institute – U Montana
• Bodega Marine Laboratory - Univ of California /Davis
• The School for Field Studies (International)
• Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre – Western Vancouver Island (International)
• The Institute for Tropical Marine Ecology (International)
• The School for International Training (International)
• Organization for Tropical Ecology (International)
• Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch
• Gulf Coast Research Laboratory – U of Southern Mississippi
• Hood College Coastal Studies Program – Maryland
• Flathead Lake Biological Station Summer Session – U Montana
• Living Routes – Study Abroad in Ecovillages (International)
• AustraLearn – Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific (International)

Listings on this page are not endorsements of specific programs listed. Please exercise due diligence.