Strickler Office of International Programs
2024 Smeal Faculty-Led
Study Abroad Programs
Applications for Summer 2024 programs are now closed. To explore Summer 2025 programs, check back in the Fall semester.
Embark on an adventure abroad and learn about business in an international context. These Smeal custom study abroad programs are designed to get students out of the classroom and into the world to explore globalization, intercultural communication, and business practices in other countries.
With 7 programs in Europe, Asia, and Central America… where will you spend your summer?
Open to ALL Penn State Students
IB Minor Eligible Programs
Earn 3-6 credits toward the International Business Minor on one of these custom programs! Click here to learn more about the Minor!
where will study abroad take you?
Explore Programs
Smeal Embedded Programs
PSU course + Study Abroad
Embedded programs are courses that are take place at a Penn State campus AND include an international travel component. The travel component can occur during fall break, winter break, spring break, or Maymester. Students on the Costa Rica Embedded program will be enrolled in 3 credits which can be used toward the International Business Minor.
Costa Rica Embedded
3 credits | Spring course at PSU + Costa Rica in May
NEW to 2024! Explore sustainable business practices and environmental policies in Costa Rica! Students will study and observe topics related to the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices of a Central American nation that has established itself as a global environmental leader.
Students on this program will meet once a week during Spring semester Session II, then travel to Costa Rica for 2 weeks during the month of May!
Panama Embedded
1 credit | Spring Break
NEW to 2024! Learn about supply chain logistics in Panama! Panama’s multicultural environment offers a unique perspective on business, allowing students to engage with locals from diverse backgrounds and learn firsthand about the intersections of culture, commerce, and logistics.
Students on this program will take a Spring semester course here at Penn State (University Park) then travel together with faculty to Panama during Spring Break!
Smeal Maymester Programs
3 weeks in May
Maymester programs are intensive, short bursts of study abroad! They are a great fit for students who are seeking a short-term experience, or students who may have internships or other obligations during the summer. Students can expect a more rigorous academic structure on Maymester programs, with classes typically held Monday through Friday. Students will be enrolled in a single 3 credit course which they may use toward the International Business Minor.
Singapore Maymester
3 weeks, 3 credits
NEW to 2024! Learn about the fast-paced, bustling business environment of Singapore! Students on this program will explore the unique economic structure, government policies, and cultural factors that contribute to Singapore’s success as a global business hub.
London Maymester
3 weeks, 3 credits
Spend three weeks in cosmopolitan London, the financial center of the world. Study intercultural communication for a global economy. Company visits in London will complement classroom learning. Local cultural activities will keep you exploring this multi-cultural city.
Barcelona Maymester
3 weeks, 3 credits
Explore Barcelona, Spain as a vibrant example of a complex and cosmopolitan business environment! Learn about the Political Economy of Spain. Choose to stay in an apartment or with a host family for a more immersive cultural experience.
Smeal Summer Programs
May – June
Summer programs are a great fit for students seeking an experience that allows them to spend more time in the host country and make more progress toward the International Business Minor and/or other academic requirements. The Summer structure allows students plenty of time to get acquainted with the culture and explore during their free time. Students will be enrolled in 6 credits which can be used toward the International Business Minor.
Central Europe Summer
7 weeks, 6 credits
Explore business and globalization on this exciting and busy study tour program! Based in quaint Brno, Czech Republic – an undiscovered gem of Central Europe. Travel to 6 cities in 4 countries for a summer you will never forget! With so many interesting destinations and cultural experiences, which will be your favorite?
Students on this program have the option to extend their stay for an International Internship!
Florence Summer
6 weeks, 6 credits
Discover stunning Florence, Italy while learning about business in the Mediterranean from an interdisciplinary perspective. Visit local Italian companies and live in quaint apartments in the city center. Choose between two track options – with a Marketing course or a Supply Chain course, there is something for everyone in Florence!
More options…
Explore more summer, embedded, and semester programs!
If you are planning a Smeal business major, there are SO many study abroad programs to choose from! See the full list of Penn State Education Abroad programs and take this opportunity of study abroad to explore other interests and goals.
Students are encouraged to review program information, then meet with a Smeal International Programs Adviser to personalize their study abroad journey and discuss next steps.
we’re here to help
Meet with an Adviser
Can’t decide what program is right for you? Meet with a Smeal International Programs Adviser! We can talk about how study abroad fits into your academic, personal, and/or professional goals, as well as answer any questions you have.
What’s it like?
What Our Students Say
Studying abroad in Brno was more than I could have ever asked for. I didn’t really know what to expect going in but I left with some of the most valuable lessons and experiences of my life. It really begins with opening your mind and wanting to do as much as you possibly can to embrace the culture.
My experience studying abroad was above and beyond anything I could have imagined. In just a few short weeks, I got to visit three countries, meet eleven of my fellow Penn Staters, and experience so many different cultures! My study abroad experience is still something I talk about to this day because I enjoyed it and learned so much.
While studying abroad, I learned how international business occurs in not only Italy, but the four other countries I was able to visit. I witnessed the implications involved in family owned businesses and how they operate globally, along with the unique challenges associated in these international businesses. Studying abroad helped me to develop the capacity to think globally in the context of business planning and decision making.
how does it work?
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question that’s not listed? Send us an email at smeal-international@psu.edu.
I'm just starting to explore study abroad. What are my next steps?
Please let your academic adviser (BA or DUS) know that you are considering study abroad as soon as possible. They will help you make sure to stay on track academically for this experience. Particularly for semester study abroad, it is very important to plan ahead. Smeal students cannot take major courses abroad and typically make progress by taking general education (Interdomain, GA, GH, GS) and elective credits.
It’s never too early to schedule an appointment with a Smeal International Programs adviser. We can help you get started by exploring program choices, and talking about when to go and what classes to take.
What if I'm in DUS?
We can give you an overview of what study abroad options would look like for you as a Smeal student, and how to work with your DUS Adviser on saving credits for study abroad.
Will study abroad courses count toward my major?
How do I earn the International Business Minor?
Others may choose the Global Business Track and focus on a deeper understanding of international business.
Either way, students develop a greater understanding and appreciation for global business and culture that prepares them for a career beyond traditional boundaries.
Please make an appointment with a Smeal International Programs Adviser to complete your IB Minor Academic Plan and delcare the Minor.
When should I apply?
Study abroad application deadlines vary depending on when you are trying to go – summer, fall or spring semester.
Application deadlines
Summer International Internships: January 24
Summer Study Abroad: January 24
Fall semester: March 1
Spring semester: May 1 (Priority Deadline)
Embedded deadlines vary – check the specific program page for application information.
You will need to submit a few short essay responses and get an academic recommendation for your application, so don’t wait until the last minute to start! You can meet with us if you have any questions or concerns about your application.
The application requires essay questions and an academic recommendation, therefore, students are encouraged to plan ahead.
How do I apply?
Students must submit an online application through Penn State Education Abroad by the appropriate deadline. Click here to see additional information about the application process: https://global.psu.edu/category/how-apply
Students applying to Smeal Embedded Programs (Costa Rica or Panama) will apply through a seperate application, NOT through Penn State Education Abroad.
When will I know if I am accepted?
Students will receive an email in mid February regarding the status of their application.
Students applying to the Smeal Embedded Programs (Costa Rica or Panama) will be notified by the Office of International Programs – that’s us!
Are Smeal custom programs competitive?
When can I go abroad as a Smeal student?
This website is focused on Smeal Customized Summer Programs, and Embedded Programs. However, Smeal students may study abroad on any PSU approved study abroad program for which they are eligible. There are many to choose from!
Visit our Smeal International Programs website to explore additional Summer options, international internships, Fall and Spring study abroad, and the requirements for the International Business Minor.
You may also use the search tool on the PSU Global website to see ALL PSU programs.
Summer Study Abroad
(Photo: Olivia Ritchey, DIS: Copenhagen | Summer 2021)
Summer programs are a popular choice for students after their first or second year at Penn State. Summer program length can vary, but it is typical to find programs that are 6 weeks, 6 credits. Students take classes in a variety of disciplines ranging from business, language, culture and more.
Junior year summer is often reserved for internships, although Penn State does offer some 3-week, 3-credit Maymester study abroad programs that can often fit in before the start of an internship. However, some students will choose longer summer study abroad programs even as juniors!
International internships can be a good option for students after the first or second year when domestic internships can be harder to come across.
See our Choosing a Program page for summer programs!
Semester Study Abroad
(Photo: Diego Lavegas, IES: Milan | Fall 2022)
The most popular time for study abroad in Smeal is spring semester of junior year. Students are eligible to go abroad for a full semester after they officially enter their major (typically at the end of spring of sophomore year). Fall semester of junior or senior year is also possible.
International internships are also available for many semester programs. These are part-time experiences, and while Smeal does not accept work experience as academic credit, part-time internships provide an immersive cultural opportunity and allow you to learn about business practices in another country. Set yourself apart and add international work experience to your resume!
See our Choosing a Program page for semester programs!
Have a Question?
Meet with an Adviser!
Make an appointment with a Smeal International Programs Adviser to learn more about study abroad programs, discuss academic fit, and how to apply! We offer in person advising in the Business Building (Suite 484) or virtual advising through Zoom.