Study Abroad with Grace
Transformation Through Cross-Cultural StudyÂ
Grace Christian University seeks to graduate culturally intelligent individuals who are prepared to serve in an increasingly complex global marketplace. The opportunity to experience serving in a cross-cultural context presents students with a unique learning opportunity that ties curriculum content to practical life experiences and fosters a sense of cultural awareness and partnership in God’s work around the world.
Cultural Immersion
Experiencing a foreign country allows students to immerse themselves in a different culture, language, and way of life. This experience gives students a deeper understanding, tolerance, and empathy for different cultures.
Academic Enrichment
Provides opportunities to learn from diverse perspectives, broaden one’s worldview, and develop cross-cultural communication skills, which are invaluable in our interconnected world.
Professional Opportunities
Studying abroad can significantly enhance one’s career prospects by providing access to unique internship opportunities, networking events, and job markets.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Faculty-Led Programs & Mission Trips
Grace aspires to support students desiring to participate in cross-cultural experiences. Students interested in faculty-led programs and mission trip opportunities may contact an academic advisor for more information. Even though participating in a mission trip is not required, it is strongly encouraged in order for students to gain a greater understanding of the world around them and to be better prepared for the field they are entering.
Study Abroad in Greece
Pamela Sherstad
The Greece Study Abroad experience is faculty-led and provides students with opportunities to explore Athens, Nafplion, Olympia, Delphi, and Aegina Island. In addition to learning about Greece’s culture, historical sites, traditions, and cuisine, course credit may be earned in Communication, Business, History, or English.
Join Grace in Greece and have a Mediterranean experience you’ll remember for a lifetime!
Contact the Trip Leader for more details.
Study Abroad in IrelandÂ
Dr. Scott Shaw
The Ireland Study Abroad experience is faculty-led and provides students with opportunities to explore the “Emerald Island” with time spent in Dublin, Belfast, Cliffs of Moher, and Giant’s Causeway. In addition to learning about Ireland’s rich faith history and culture, historical sites, traditions, and cuisine, course credit may be earned in Sociology, Ministry, Criminal Justice, or Business.
Contact the Trip Leader for more details.
Biblical Studies in Turkey
Dr. Phil Long
This unique tour focuses on the missionary journeys of Paul in Acts. After a tour of Istanbul, we will visit Perge (Acts 13:13), the city Paul passed on his way to Pisidian Antioch, then travel to Colossae and nearby town of Laodicea. You will see Miletus, where Paul said farewell to the Ephesian elders (Acts 20), the spectacular ruins of the temple of Apollo at Didyma, and the Hellenistic city of Priene. The tour ends in Ephesus, the site of Paul’s three-year preaching and teaching ministry.
Contact the Trip Leader for more details.
Mission Trip to Paraguay
Pat McGillicuddy
The Excite Mission Trip will be a great opportunity to take part in the ministry in Paraguay and to develop your own relationship with the Lord. We will be working mostly in children’s ministry, teaching ministry and evangelism.
Contact the Trip Leader for more details.
Study Abroad Details
FAQ’s for Parents & Students
How does Grace prepare students?
Faculty-Led Programs, Experiential & Mission Trips: Multiple meetings will be held prior to the trip.
These meetings will include:
- A walk-through of pertinent information for the trip
- Packing lists & tips
- Itineraries
- Cultural awareness
- A Question & Answer time
- Requirements & expectations
- Safety protocols
What does it cost?
Mission trips are affordable! The cost of each trip varies depending on each program, the location, and the length of the trip. This means that you are able to choose what trip best suits your degree, as well as your budget.
Reach out to the faculty leading the trip for more information on the cost of each trip.
Can I use Financial Aid to pay for my trip?
Yes! You can apply for financial aid!
Students are encouraged to complete their FAFSA to become eligible for Federal and State financial aid, which can help cover the cost of plane tickets, visa, etc.
If additional loans are needed, please contact Financial Aid for more information.
Is studying abroad necessary for my degree?
Grace does not require students to study abroad for graduation. There are study abroad options that students may take in place of on-campus classes to complete degree requirements.
Even though participating in study abroad is not required, it is greatly encouraged in order that students can gain a greater understanding of the world around them and can be better prepared for the field they are entering.
Don’t need the credit? No problem! You can still join the trip as a guest and enjoy all the benefits without the course-work. Speak to the course facilitator for availability.
Will studying abroad delay my graduation date?
Studying abroad will not delay your graduation date if you plan in advance for what works best with your degree.
How do academic credits transfer?
Faculty-led programs: Students receive a graded credit based on participation and assignments, which will impact their overall GPA.
Is studying abroad safe?
All faculty-led programs follow the required safety procedures outlined by the Study Abroad Office. We follow State Department guidelines for safety in travel, and carefully vet all third party providers. The Study Abroad Office regularly consults the US Department of State for travel advisories and maintains contact with staff and students abroad.
Testimonials
What Our Students Are Saying
We believe education is more than just academics, studying abroad gives students an opportunity to experience different cultures and broaden their perspectives on the world. Hear from students how studying abroad has impacted their life.
