The best time for a Computer Science major to go abroad will be a combination of the credits they have transferred in, whether they have a dual major or a minor, whether they plan on taking any summer classes, and obviously their personal situation. Listed below are some suggested time frames for each concentration. Students looking to go abroad during a different period are encouraged to work closely with their department advisor and the Education Abroad Office.
For all concentrations short-term study abroad opportunities are normally fairly easy to fit into a student’s degree plan. Students are able to start participating on short-term programs (winter break, spring break, and summer) as early as their first year. Students participating on short-term faculty-led programs often fulfill General Education, Major Free Electives, Major Concentration courses, Language requirements, or 2nd Major/Minor requirements. Students participating on partner summer programs may be able to fulfill Copmuter Science requirements in addition to the above options. Some students will also engage in research or complete an international internship.
First Year
Students in their first year are not able to apply for a semester program but may be eligible for short-term faculty-led or partner programs either during the spring semester or during the summer sessions. The first year is also a great time to start planning for a semester abroad by making sure that you take the required core courses early on.
Second Year
The Sophomore year is one of the best times to participate on a semester program. Students often take CS 2490, CS 2450, CS 3460, CS 3430 during this semester as well as MAT 2240. Students can also look to take MAT 2240 during the summer between their Freshman and Sophomore year to free up even more flexibility for their semester abroad. Students can also look to participate on a summer program.
Third Year
Third Year is often the most intensive year for a CS major and may not be the best time to spend a semester abroad. The summer after your 3rd year is also an opportunity to participate on a summer program, complete an international research project, or do an international internship.
Fourth Year
The first semester of Senior year can be another opportunity for a student to participate on a semester program, but it does require careful planning to make sure all course requirements are in order and that you will be able to complete your CS Capstone.
