Study abroad

Undergraduates have a wide variety of opportunities to incorporate study at international institutions into their degree programme.

Four-year single and joint honours degrees in American Studies (International Study) require the completion of a period of study abroad normally in North America. Joint honours apply for International Study at the end of Year 1. Students take a full academic load at the partner institution and progress into their final year at Nottingham if they maintain a “C” average (GPA 2.00 or higher).

This can be in Europe under the ERASMUS scheme or at a range of universities globally who are members of the Universitas 21 (U-21) network.

Normally students wishing to participate in E-S or U21 undertake this type of study abroad in Year 2 as long as they can continue to meet degree requirements. E-S and U-21 schemes provide some financial support to participating students.

North America

American Studies (International Study) students spend Year 3 of their 4-year programme normally in North America. This means that they apply to their international institution of study during their second year. We feel this allows students to acclimatize to university life and to experience the year abroad when they can best take advantage of it. Student loans, etc continue as at Nottingham, Joint Honours students may transfer to International Studies, if places become available at the end of year 1, on an academically competitive basis, and if they are accepted by our partner institutions.

We try to negotiate agreements with institutions that reflect the diversity of North America in terms of its geography and educational styles, and we ensure that all are able to maintain high academic standards.  See a list of our current Study Abroad partner universities.

Europe

The Department has entered into ERASMUS agreements with select European institutions that teach either American Studies or Film Studies. Instruction on modules is offered in English, and the ES scheme offers a small stipend to subsidise travel costs. A full list of partners is available to registered students, but among current partners are Amsterdam, Berlin, Munich, Turin and Venice.. This has proved a great way for students to expand their horizons by living in a major European city for a period of not less than 8 weeks. Students should consider this option during Year 1 so that they can undertake it in Year 2. Ideally, a student should not undertake international study in the final year of their degree. See a list of our current Study Abroad partner universities.

Travelling Scholarships

The University offers the Scholarships below to assist with travel costs associated with activities relating to your study; see individual eligibility criteria. Please note all awards are competitive, there is no guarantee of success. Find out more about the Travelling Scholarships.