Study Shows Living Abroad Enhances Creativity
The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology has published a study showing that living abroad enhances creativity, which can have an impact in the workplace as well. Conducted by researchers at INSEAD and Northwestern University, the study involved nationals from various countries. The study isavailable for download on the American Psychological Association Web site, and there is a 10-minute interview on You Tube with one of the principal researchers, William Maddux.
Q: Why should I study abroad at MCAD?
A: For the students who participate in MCAD's Off-Campus Study Programs, learning does not start or stop at the classroom door or even at the edge of the campus. It includes the people, history and geography of the unfamiliar.
MCAD Off-Campus Programs offer a selection of undergraduate courses in a variety of disciplines, taught by international faculty members from host universities and art institutes. These courses are taught in English as well as in the language of each country, and may fulfill major requirements.
Each of our selected sites provide facilities for creators and a wide range of cultural activities and excursions.
Q: Which program is best for my major?
A: We require that MCAD students have a declared major prior to applying for off-campus programs, but you do not need to stay within your major area of study during your semester off campus. Because you will earn studio elective credits during your time away, we encourage you to explore taking classes outside of your major.
Q: When should I study off-campus? Can I spend more than one semester abroad?
A: Junior year is the ideal time to plan a semester off-campus. In rare cases, you may be able to study off-campus first semester of your senior year (spring) if approved by your department chair.
Students can study abroad for a semester, a summer, or (rarely) for an entire academic year. We advise you to talk with your academic advisor to plan for your semester off-campus. It's a good idea to check out the courses that are available now to give you an idea of what will be offered the semester you decide to go.
Q: If I study off-campus, will it take me longer to graduate?
A: We work hard to ensure that MCAD's off-campus programs fit with your educational goals and requirements. In most cases, students studying off-campus do not spend additional time completing their program. We require that you have enough room in your studio electives (12-15 credits left). Make sure you talk with your chair or academic advisor to make sure going off-campus will not delay your graduation date.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: For the 2024/2025 academic school year, the application deadline is September 12th, 2024.
Q: How much will it cost to study off campus?
A: Tuition costs are the same as spending a semester at MCAD. You will remain enrolled at MCAD and pay tuition as usual. Although your MCAD scholarships will stay the same, it is a good idea to check with Financial Aid if you have grants or awards. Some grants may not be used for study abroad.
Tuition covers 12-18 credits, deposit and registration fees. For each credit taken in excess of 18 in a semester, there is an additional charge per credit. All students must register for a full course load during their semester off-campus. Additional costs include, but are not limited to: airfare/travel, food, study abroad health insurance and housing. Estimated costs can be found on the MCAD Off Campus Study and Exchange page at https://www.mcad.edu/student-life/campus-study-exchange
Q: Where will I live during my semester off campus?
A: Selection and cost of housing varies by site and by the type of living arrangement chosen. The Austria, England, and Ireland programs offer on campus housing in student dormitories or apartments. For these programs, housing is paid directly to the host school. The Florence program includes free housing for students selected to participate in the program. For the Germany, Japan, Singapore, and Netherlands programs, students are responsible for securing their own housing - on campus options are not available. Estimated costs can be found on the MCAD Off Campus Study and Exchange page at https://www.mcad.edu/student-life/campus-study-exchange
Q: How much will I spend on meals?
A: The cost of meals varies by the cost of living at each site and by each student's eating preferences. Some locations have on-campus cafeterias and restaurants. Other programs are more independent.
Q: How will my credits transfer back to MCAD?
A: Completion of coursework and the transfer of credits is approved by the student's department chair.
Students who participate in the Florence program are required to consult with the Department Chair of their major area prior to the start of the program to determine the type of work required to fulfill graduation requirements.
Q: What if I have never studied a foreign language?
A: You do not need to have studied a foreign language prior to your participation in an MCAD off-campus experience, with the exception of the Japan program. In most programs, content courses are taught in English or are English-assisted. For some programs you can expect some initial language instruction, after which you will be able to participate in classes taught in the native language of the country in which you are studying. A minimum N2 Japanese language proficiency is require for the Osaka program
Q: Do I need a Passport and/or Visa
A: All student studying at MCAD sites abroad will need a passport that is valid at least 6 months past the start date for their study abroad program. Students are required to have a passport before they can apply to study abroad. Visa requirements vary for each program. The Student Affairs office will assist selected students with visa applications.
Q: Can I contact a past participant?
A: The Student Affairs office may be able to put you in touch with students who have studied off-campus and who have agreed to answer questions. E-mail akurialamillo@mcad.edu for more specific information.