» Study Abroad Opportunities for Dodge Students

Studying abroad can be affordable and can keep you on track (or get you closer) to graduating in four years. The key is picking the right program(s) for your interests and budget and degree program. 

Helpful tips

As you plan your travel abroad experience, here are some things to consider:

• Semester abroad: The number of major-specific units for Dodge programs often make it challenging to do a semester abroad. But there are options to make it happen!
• Interterm/summer travel courses: Travel courses allow you to study abroad and earn credits without committing to a full semester away.
• International internships: International internships offer valuable networking opportunities and hands-on experiences that enhance your resume and give you a global perspective on the film industry.

For guidance on finding the right program and the ideal timing, reach out to your Dodge Study Abroad Advisor.

Funding your international experience

To provide global experiences to as many students as possible, the Center for Global Education offers scholarships to help cover the costs of studying in another country. 

In addition:

• Certain film and media arts travel courses may be fully funded by Dodge College, depending on the program. Reach out to the course instructor for more information.
• Dodge-specific scholarships may also be offered to students on an as-needed basis. Contact the Dean’s Office to learn more.
• Students participating in a summer or interterm travel course or international internship may qualify for a one-time tuition waiver.

You can find the eligibility requirements and more information on the Tuition Waiver page.

Film and media arts programs abroad

Below are some examples of popular study abroad courses among Dodge students.

Be sure to check the program details on the Study Abroad website, as some may have prerequisite courses.

Semester-long programs

Many Dodge students choose to do a semester abroad during their sophomore year.

• This way you can finish your General Education requirements in your study abroad program. This is often the easiest way to go abroad for a full semester. It can be more difficult to find major-specific courses at another university.
• However, the semester program with AIFS in Cannes, France is a great option for those looking to go abroad for a full semester. The Cannes Film Festival offers internship opportunities that you can register with Chapman for academic credit towards your degree.
• Regardless, opportunities to study abroad are available throughout your college journey, so you can still go abroad during your later years.

Interterm and summer travel courses

Going abroad over interterm (winter break) or summer can be a great option for Dodge students.

• It won’t interrupt with your fall/spring coursework.
• Every year there are several options tailored to Dodge students.
• Tuition is waived for your first travel course! (Students are responsible for travel and costs while abroad, but scholarships are available.)

Various travel courses are available each year, so be sure to check the Center for Global Education portal for the latest offerings and their information.

• Animation Storytelling at Gobelins in the Heart of Paris: Explore iconic Parisian landmarks such as The Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, followed by a two-week intensive animation workshop at Gobelins, the world’s top-ranked animation school.
• Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity: Travel to France and attend the world’s premier event for advertising and creative communications, featuring industry panels, workshops, and networking events with creative professionals from around the globe.
• Community Voices − Global Story Production: Gain hands-on experience in social issue documentary production as you work in teams to film a short documentary focused on the course location.
  • Check out Community Voices on Instagram!
• Exploring Korean Film Industry & Culture: Learn about the rise of 21st-century South Korean cinema, engage with industry professionals, visit key production and exhibition sites, and experience Korea's rich film culture, history, and traditional arts.
• Film Capitals of the World: Immerse yourself in the filmmaking business and history of international cities, and explore how they can serve as both settings and characters in films.
• Social Nonfiction Methodologies: Explore social methodologies and themes abroad while producing a short documentary film. Through hands-on experience, you will learn key documentary filmmaking techniques and gain insight into nonfiction storytelling in a real-world context.
• Structure and Function of a Film Festival: Learn how film festivals operate in conjunction with the global film industry, including the historical development of international film festivals and their programming, marketing and exhibition practices.

Jeepney: a short student film

In a recent Social Nonfiction Methodologies course, Dodge students went abroad to the Philippines during Interterm. As part of the course, they created this short film about the jeep’s importance in Filipino culture.

International internships

International internships can be completed during a semester abroad or over the summer.

As noted above, the semester-long internship in Cannes is a popular option. But as a Dodge student, you might consider internship programs in countries with major film markets or film festivals, like the Czech Republic, France, Italy, or Germany.

Please note that some pre-approved international internships are allowed for credit if they are with a U.S.-based company. All registration for international experiences goes through the Center for Global Education.

Studying abroad in other disciplines

Studying abroad isn't limited to just your major — it’s a great opportunity to fulfill other degree requirements or simply explore your interests!

Here are a few ways to make the most of your time abroad:

• Fulfill your minor: Use your study abroad experience to complete courses related to your minor, such as French or Art History.
• Enhance your language skills: Immerse yourself in a country where another language is spoken, which can complement your film and media arts studies.
• Explore new subjects: Take the chance to delve into subjects outside your major, such as business or entrepreneurship, to broaden your perspective.

Getting started

​​To prepare for your semester or academic year abroad journey, the first thing you should do is attend a Global First Steps presentation, which will inform you about the different programs available, application processes, costs and funding, and more. 

You can register for a Global First Steps presentation through Calendly.

It’s also important to meet with your Dodge study abroad advisor and your program advisor to discuss your remaining Chapman degree requirements.