Global Field Study

Global Field Study (GFS) consists of semester-long courses that take place on the Glenside campus which include an off-campus field study typically lasting 1-2 weeks in the middle or at the end of the semester. GFS courses are open to sophomores, juniors, seniors and graduate students.

Enrolling in a GFS Course

To enroll in a GFS course you must complete an online application (look for the APPLY link at the top of the course page for each semester) and submit a $450 non-refundable deposit. Once your application is complete, you will receive an email confirmation of your eligibility to be enrolled in the course. Space in GFS courses is limited and application decisions will be made on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Your Global Field Study course carries a travel fee, in addition to your regular tuition. The travel fee for your course is listed on the GFS Courses page.

Payments can be made online via Self-Service/eBIll, or you may pay by cash or check at the One Stop Shop. Make checks payable to Arcadia University. 

You will pay a $450 non-refundable deposit at the time of application and then the remaining balance prior to travel.    

Travel Fee

The cost of the GFS travel fee varies, depending on the location and the length of your course’s field study. The travel fee typically includes:

• Airfare
• Accommodations
• In-country ground transportation
• All tours, lectures, and group activities

Other cost details specific to your field study location will be outlined by your faculty leader.

Dropping a GFS Course

The drop period for GFS courses ends one day (24 hours) after your first class meeting.  At that time, you will be responsible for the entire amount of the travel fee for your GFS course, even if you later withdraw.

Cancellation/Refund

In the case of total cancellation of your field study program by the University, all fees will be refunded to all participants.

Who is eligible to participate in the GFS courses?

• Full- and part-time matriculated juniors and seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.2. 
• Transfer students who have completed at least one semester (a minimum of 12 credits) of coursework at Arcadia.

Some courses are open to sophomores and graduate students as well. See the course descriptions for eligibility details.

How do I apply for a GFS course?

The process to apply to a GFS has recently changed.  You will no longer be able to apply through self-service, instead you can visit the GFS Courses page and click "Apply Now." Within 24-48 hours you will receive a confirmation receipt of your application and instructions on how to pay your deposit.

Is the deposit charged in addition to the travel fee?

No. The deposit is subtracted from the overall travel fee.

How many credits will I receive?

Most Global Field Study courses carry 4 credits for undergraduate students and 3 credits for graduate students.

How are the Field Study locations chosen?

Each semester, the Office of International Programs puts out a call to Arcadia faculty and staff for Global Field Study course proposals. The courses we offer are based on the research interests and expertise of our faculty and staff who lead them. We strive to offer a varied slate of courses, based in different academic disciplines and in different corners of the world, including North America.

Who handles all the logistics for the field study, and where will we stay?

The Office of International Programs coordinates logistics for the field studies, in conjunction with faculty leaders and their contacts overseas. Group accommodations vary greatly by location, depending on cost and availability, but are guaranteed to be safe and clean.