Faculty Resources

Thinking about leading a trip? Not sure where to get started? The following information is an overview of program development for both Learning Abroad and Learning Away opportunities.

 

 

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

 

There are two programs that faculty can develop: faculty-led (for credit) and Global Experiential Opportunities (non-credit). 

Faculty-led programs:
-       50% or more of the class is 
        taught abroad
-       Embedded trip associated 
        with course
-       A trip that follows a 
        semester course 

While it important to plan all programs well in advance, keep in mind that it will be crucial to have a potential syllabus prepared roughly 15-18 months before the trip occurs.
 
Global Experiential Opportunities (GEO)
-       Learning opportunity not associated with a course


 

LEARNING ABROAD PROPOSAL

 

 

After speaking with the Honors College about ideas for travel, faculty and staff must complete the Learning Abroad Faculty-Led Program Proposal from the Institute of Global Engagement. To complete this you will need to know:

-     Program dates, locations,
       terms, anticipated participants
-      Course information
-      Rationale for organizing program
-      Any safety and security concerns
-      Logistic provider information
-      Tentative itinerary and syllabus

 

While the Honors College encourages any kind of learning outside the classroom, faculty-led trips with a course proponent are strongly preferred. Will your course align with any of the Honors College minors? Does it hold the potential for future collaborations with strategic partners? Does it further any learning in the classroom? If so, how and why?
While travel can be exciting, it is also expensive. Take into account the affordability of your proposed trip. Additionally, think about how the theme, destination, and potential itinerary will be viewed by the students you might recruit.
Travel can be demanding, especially in a group. We encourage our faculty and staff to determine how travel opportunities might fit into their personal and professional plans. 
Check the State Department’s Travel Advisory page for the most up-to-date information.  

 

 

 

Learning Abroad Program Development

The Institute for Global Engagement Program Development has more information about planning and coordinating trips. 

Contact Andie Beer, Associate Director of the UH Learning Abroad office where she is happy to talk through ideas and provide info on best practices.

 


 

TIMELINE

 


 

SUBMISSION DEADLINES

 

 

The submission deadlines for trip proposals in academic year 2027 are:

  • Fall 2026 & Winter Break 2027 Programs: April 1, 2026
  • Spring 2027 Programs: May 1, 2026
  • Summer 2027 Programs: July 1, 2026

 


 

MARKETING YOUR PROGRAM

 

 

Once your proposal is approved by IGE, it will be essential to have a set of readily accessible promotional materials to effectively recruit students for your program. These include printed items and digital media in a variety of forms. The Honors College Office of Communication is able to assist all of your needs.
 
 Classroom visits, Honors Retreat, and learning abroad fairs can be a great way to meet students where they are and get the word out about your program.

 


 

ATTEND IGE PROGRAM LEADER RISK WORKSHOP

 

These are mandatory for all program leaders. You can register through the IGE website for the next session before your trip.

IGE Program Leader Risk Workshop

  •  October 10 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. in the Student Center South - Downtown Room

Questions?
For further information, contact Dr. Ben Rayder in the Office of Undergraduate Research and Major Awards.