Characteristics
In a reciprocal exchange, the student remains enrolled at Southern Oregon University while studying at a partner institution abroad. The student pays tuition and fees at SOU as well, just as if they were here on campus, but all housing, meals, and other costs will be paid to the host country's university. Most scholarships and financial aid will apply as usual. Generally, these programs are the most cost-effective way to study abroad. All students must be recommended by the Education Abroad Coordinator. After being accepted into the program, foreign university applications will be forwarded to the host institution by the SOU Office of International Programs.
Where Can I Go?
SOU currently has reciprocal exchange agreements with universities in England, France, Finland, Germany, Japan, Mexico, and South Korea.
England
University of Winchester. Fall Semester Only. Direct enrollment in university courses. All majors. This is one of SOU’s longest-running reciprocal exchange programs tends to be very competitive. In the last couple of years SOU has been able to send 5-6 students each Fall. Selection based on academic achievement, faculty recommendations, and class standing.
Japan
Okayama University. First Semester (April-September) and/or Second Semester (October-March). Japanese Studies Program focusing on language and culture. Japanese government (Monbukagakusho: MEXT) scholarships are available. This program is available to all majors.
Shinshu University. First Semester (April-September) and/or Second Semester (October-March). Intensive Japanese Language Program. Japanese government (Monbukagakusho: MEXT) scholarships are available. This program is available to all majors.
Tokyo International University. First Semester (April-September) and/or Second Semester (October-March). Japanese Studies program focusing on language and culture. Elective courses taught in English are available during both semesters. Japanese government (Monbukagakusho: MEXT) scholarships available. This program is available to all majors.
Germany
Hochschule für Technik und Wirschaft des Saarlands. University of Applied Sciences. Summer Semester (March-July), Winter Semester (September-January). This program is open to business majors only. Dual degree and traditional exchange year options. Most courses taught in English. German language course recommended.
Hochschule Harz. University of Applied Sciences. International Summer School (March-July), Winter Semester (September-January). This program is open to business majors only. Dual degree and traditional exchange year options. Most courses taught in English. German language course recommended. The International Summer School is a three-week summer term. Two SOU students will receive scholarships for the program fee of approximately $950.
Mexico
University of Guanajuato. Fall and Spring Semesters. Increase your spanish fluency and study in Ashland's beautiful sister city and UNESCO world heritage site Guanajuato. Direct enrollment in the university. Must have documented knowledge of the Spanish language to enroll in regular courses in the university. This program is available to all majors.
South Korea (Republic of Korea)
Chonnam National University. SOU and Chonnam University participate in the TaLK Exchange Student Program, funded by the Korean Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology. SOU students will receive a scholarship to study at Chonnam in exchange for teaching after-school English classes at a rural elementary school for nine hours a week. TaLK is a unique opportunity for SOU students who may be looking for a chance to apply theory in a real teaching environment, receive first-hand cultural education, as well as the support to develop a greater global perspective. The scholarship term is either six months or one year and requires a four-week training program. Benefits include a monthly stipend of approximately $800.00, dormitory housing, health insurance, a settlement subsidy, vacation leave, and cultural experience programs. In the Spring Semester (March-June) and during the Fall Semester (September-December), SOU exchange students enroll in regular courses, many of them taught in English.
Dankook University. There are two possibilities for study at Dankook University: during the regular school year and in the summer. In the Spring Semester (March-June) and during the Fall Semester (September-December), SOU exchange students enroll in regular courses, some of which are taught in English. All majors. Summer only: Academic Program of the International Summer School. The academic program consists of four weeks of intensive classes (8 SOU credits) taught by international and/or Korean professors in English. Students also have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of cultural activities and field trips during their stay. All majors. English Village Program. Prior to attending the Academic Program of the International Summer School, students have the opportunity to teach English for three weeks to small groups of Dankook University students. Free housing is offered for participants in the English Village Program, as well as up to $1,200 airfare reimbursement.
Yeungnam University. Business courses taught in English. In the Spring Semester (March-June) and during the Fall Semester (September-December), SOU exchange students enroll in regular courses, many of them taught in English.
France
Study business in Lille, France.
Finland
Study international business or hospitality management.
Timelines
The process of reciprocal exchange is probably one of the most involved. However, with a little bit of patience and a lot of planning, it can be done in an expeditious manner and the monetary savings makes the extra effort worth the time. The deadline for applying to all programs (Summer, Winter or Spring) is February 28th.
Application
For more information regarding the application procedure, please visit the individual program page. Students must submit their applications in person to our office in Stevenson Union. You must meet with an office staff person in order to turn in your application. Thus, during busy times of the year, it is wise to schedule an appointment with a Peer Advisor when you are ready to turn in your application.
