EXPERIENCE A WORLD OF EDUCATIONAL POSSIBILITIES, CULTURES, AND CONNECTION THROUGH ACADEMIC TRAVEL!
As one of the top two-year academic travel programs in the state, Normandale students have the opportunity to earn academic credits while participating in adventure beyond the classroom, learning new cultures, and experiencing personal growth.
Among other things, students who have completed an academic travel program:
Students at Normandale can participate in two types of travel programs:
Check out the all the travel opportunities offered through Normandale!
Take your learning abroad by joining this Spring 2024 travel course that includes a week-long educational tour to Cuba!
This online section of Intercultural Communication will develop global competency and communication skills with a blend of traditional classroom learning and real-world experience in a country few have had the chance to visit.
Contrasting Cuba’s capital of Havana with its rural western countryside, we’ll gain insight on Cuba’s unique history and culture and the importance of the African cultural influence on modern Cuban society. Some of the highlights of our visit include a national park, organic farm, art museums, historic sites, beaches, AfroCuban music and dance performances, and participating in a community project.
Space is limited. Enroll now to reserve your spot.
This course satisfies Minnesota Transfer Curriculum Goals 7 and 8.
The cost of travel courses includes both tuition and travel fees and semester study abroad programs also include room and board. Costs vary according to destinations and numbers of credits. It is best to look at each travel course’s program details and each semester abroad program’s budget sheet.
The fees for travel courses vary by experience and location. Tuition and fees for the course will be paid through Normandale billing. Travel fees are either included in the course fees or paid directly to a tour provider, which usually offers a variety of payment plans for participants.
Please be aware of all payment deadlines.
Semester programs are paid directly through the University partner or through financial aid.
Normandale Community College awards multiple scholarships to assist students participating in a travel course or an approved semester study abroad program. Academic Travel Scholarships are available through the Normandale Foundation Scholarship Portal and applications are accepted every Fall and the Spring semester.
Scholarships opportunities are also available through the following organizations:
A student who qualifies for financial aid may use the aid for travel courses and approved semester study abroad programs. Before a student enrolls in a travel program, he or she should contact the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office to discuss their funding options and the steps necessary to make sure their aid will be in place prior to the program deadlines. Please note that not all expenses may be covered with financial aid. Students participating in approved semester study abroad programs must complete specific financial aid forms prior to their participation in the program.
Anyone can enroll in a travel course with the exception of the following:
Semester study abroad programs may have enrollment restrictions.
Anyone who wishes to participate in a tour that is party of a Normandale travel course must enroll in both the tour and the course. Participants are required to enroll may enroll in the course for credit or audit; the cost is the same.
Travel courses require enrollment in the course and tour. Each program is different in the process but starts by clicking the “I’M INTERESTED” button above and completing the program’s interest form. You’ll then be sent an email with instructions to enroll in the tour. The instructor can assist with any questions along the way.
Semester study abroad programs may require an application process through the partner university.
A student might be sent home at their own expense if there are violations of the Normandale Code of Conduct or Program/Provider Rules.
One of the most important aspects of academic travel programming is the safety of our students and faculty. While safety can never be guaranteed, the college employs the following safeguards while planning and conducting travel courses:
If you have any questions regarding our practices and procedures regarding keeping students and faculty safe while traveling, please contact Global Studies Coordinator.
We understand that group travel can seem intimidating if you don’t know anyone before signing up. Just know that you’ll be traveling with experienced faculty and you’ll have spent time in class with them and your fellow students prior to departure. You’ll end up having an amazing learning adventure together. Travel classes and semester programs are a great way to make friends for life.
If you do not have a passport or need to renew yours, you should apply as soon as possible once you’ve enrolled on an international tour. The average processing time varies and can take up to 16 weeks (3-4 months). For more information on how to apply for or renew a passport, visit the Travel State Government website.