Why study or work abroad?
Scottish students have travelled abroad for hundreds of years to find new academic challenges and experience other cultures.
One early example is Andrew Melville, who studied at 精东传媒 before travelling to Paris in 1564 to learn from the teachings of Ramus. He later returned to 精东传媒 and became Principal of St Mary’s College.
International opportunities have changed a lot since then. Many of the reasons for going abroad remain the same: to explore new academic challenges, experience another culture and see more of the world.
Evidence on academic and career outcomes
between outward mobility, academic performance and employment outcomes.
The report found that graduates who spent time abroad during their degree had stronger outcomes than graduates who did not. It found that:
- 3.0% of graduates who spent time abroad were unemployed, compared with 3.8% of graduates who did not.
- 91% of graduates who spent time abroad earned a first-class or upper second-class degree, compared with 80.3% of graduates who did not.
- Graduates in full-time, paid employment had an average salary 5.5% higher six months after graduating.
- 78.3% of graduates who spent time abroad secured a ‘graduate-level’ job within six months of graduating, compared with 73.2% of graduates who did not.
What you can gain from studying and working abroad
Academic development
Studying abroad gives you the chance to explore your subject from a different perspective and in a different academic culture.
You may have the opportunity to study modules that St Andrews does not offer. These modules may complement your St Andrews studies while adding a new dimension to your degree. Examples include geography field trips in North America, modern European history in Strasbourg or marine biology on the Great Barrier Reef.
Study abroad may help you discover new academic interests. It may also encourage you to consider postgraduate study in a particular field or location.
Language skills
Living, working and studying in another culture can help you learn a new language or improve your existing language skills.
You do not always need another language to study or work abroad. Many European partners offer courses in English for students from disciplines other than languages. They may also offer the chance to take language classes alongside your studies.
Chemistry and Biology students undertake work placements across Europe, in countries such as Norway, Germany and Switzerland.
Employability
A placement in another country can help you stand out when you apply for graduate roles.
Study abroad can show employers that you have self-motivation, independence and the ability to adapt to new situations. Living and studying or working abroad can also help you build confidence in a new culture.
Many students also join student organisations or apply for internships through their host institution. These experiences can help you build a stronger CV.
Study abroad learning outcomes
Study Abroad programmes play an important role in the University's commitment to a learning culture that is challenging, imaginative and flexible.
They give students opportunities to experience other academic cultures, develop intellectual maturity, build co-curricular skills and improve long-term employability.
How study abroad placements work
Study abroad placements may last one semester or a full academic year. Students can study abroad for credit only through existing University-approved programmes. These placements form part of the St Andrews degree programme.
Students receive credits and grades from the partner institution. The University converts these into St Andrews credits and grades when students return and includes them in the St Andrews degree classification.
What students should be able to do after their placement
After completing a study abroad placement, students should be able to develop skills and understanding in the following areas:
Academic development
Students should be able to:
- outline the benefits of exposure to a different higher education culture
- develop intellectual flexibility by approaching their academic discipline from another perspective
- reflect on the skills they have learned and the knowledge they have gained
- explain how these skills and knowledge may contribute to future academic development
- describe the academic benefits and challenges of studying abroad
Employability and professional skills
Students should be able to:
- explain how the academic benefits and challenges of studying abroad relate to transferable skills for future employment or study
- improve their professional communication, presentation and interpersonal skills
- develop networking skills
- develop skills in another language, where relevant
Self-management and resilience
Students should be able to:
- develop self-management and lifelong learning skills, including time management, adaptability, confidence, independence and enterprise
- develop problem-solving skills in familiar and unfamiliar situations
- develop resilience by coping with adversity or challenging circumstances
Cultural awareness and representation
Students should be able to:
- increase their awareness of and sensitivity to other cultural customs and norms
- reflect on their contribution to the University as an ambassador for St Andrews