FAQs
What opportunities are available for off-campus study?
Messiah College offers more than 40 off-campus, study options in over 40 countries, including study abroad, cross cultural-courses, exchange programs, internships, service / missions, and the Philadelphia Campus. A complete listing of opportunities is available in the EpiCenter or by browsing the EpiCenter web page.
When should students begin to explore options for off-campus study?
NOW! It is imperative that students begin exploring options as early as possible. Students need to plan carefully–with your guidance--courses that they will be taking both on and off campus and to discern which semester or semesters will be best for them to participate.
What is the cost?
Semester-Long Programs: Program costs are based on what students pay to study in Grantham; some include an off-campus study fee ($1,160 - $1,370). This includes the cost of round-trip international airfare!
Scholarships: Messiah College allows students to apply two semesters of financial aid to participate in Messiah-approved study programs. The federal government recently introduced new scholarships for students studying abroad: GILMAN & FREEMAN SCHOLARSHIPS
Three-Credit, Cross-Cultural Courses: There are additional costs for three-credit, January-Term or May-Term cross cultural courses. Students pay travel costs in addition to tuition. Travel costs range anywhere from $3,200 to approximately $5,000.
Can I fulfill my cross-cultural requirement by studying off campus?
Students can fulfill this requirement by:
- participating in any January- or May-term, cross-cultural course. Upon successful completion of the course students will receive three credits.
- participating in any Messiah-approved, semester-long international program. Student will not receive three credits, rather they will receive a cross-cultural waiver meaning the requirement is fulfilled.
Can I take a class during J-term or May-term when I plan to study off-campus for the semester?
Please read the policy for taking January Term or May Term Courses While Participating in Semester-Long Programs if you are considering taking a class in January or May during a semester that you are participating in a semester-long program. Note: there are additional fees involved.
Can students still graduate on time if they study off-campus?
Yes, the key is to start early! Visit the EpiCenter to explore your options. Students need to meet with you to determine which programs and courses will be compatible with your field of study. Students should apply up to a year in advance.
Do students need to know another language?
Sometimes you do: Programs in Chile, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Mexico, and Spain require that students complete college-level, language courses before they participate.
Most of the time you do not: All other programs are either taught in English or include language training as part of the program.
Where do students go to get information?
The Messiah College EpiCenter (Experiential Programs Information Center) was established to provide a place for students to explore options for off-campus study. It is located in the Eisenhower Campus Center across from the Campus Store. The office is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 5 p.m. Students can begin their search by browsing the EpiCenter web page.
