About
Developing a faculty-led program, short term (2 to 10 weeks) or semester-long, is a lengthy process that involves early discussions as well as timely completion of a detailed proposal form. The general recommendation is to work with the department on the academic content, as well as with your college liaison and Education Abroad regarding the requirements and access to resources, such as education providers that can deliver logistical support in the foreign location. A course offered as part of a faculty-led program should be taught almost entirely overseas, with at least 50% of the contact hours occurring while abroad. This will be verified and submitted to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) for approval of the foreign location. The proposal submission is typically done 12 months ahead to allow state approvals, development, recruitment and student preparation for the program.
Thinking of Creating a Program?
Start by contacting your Education Abroad College Liaison or the Education Abroad office to learn about requirements and available resources. You can also request a list of vetted providers for your chosen location, as your proposal will need to include the name of the partner or provider you plan to work with.
For assistance, reach out to:
Christie Dunn, Associate Director
Email: cadunn@tamu.edu
Steps to Create a Faculty-Led Education Abroad Program
Faculty should work with their college’s Education Abroad liaison and the Education Abroad staff for guidance throughout the course proposal process.
Proposal Deadlines
Submit proposals to your Education Abroad College Liaison by:
- February 1 – For programs with course registration in Spring semester, including Winter Break and May.
- May 1 – For programs with course registration in Summer, and for August programs with registration in Fall.
- October 1 – For programs with course registration in Fall semester.
Resources & Documents
An Education Abroad advisor will be assigned to work with faculty to provide assistance throughout the many phases of development, implementation, and post-program activities as well as in emergency and crisis situations abroad.
Coordination Timeline
Education Abroad offers two service levels for faculty-led programs: Standard service, which is fully supported by Education Abroad; Limited service, which is supported more by the faculty’s home department and/or college. Each service level comes with a different fee charged to the students. Please see the Service Levels Matrix as a summary of how the office can support you, depending on your department and business office needs and choice.
Refer to the following timelines for more information and steps on how to prepare for a program. Keep in touch with your college education abroad liaison for specific details throughout the development process.