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Arcadia STEM Summer Research (Outgoing Program)

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  • Locations: Aberdeen, United Kingdom; Brisbane, Australia; Dublin, Ireland; Glasgow, United Kingdom; Granada, Spain; Limerick, Ireland; London, United Kingdom
  • Program Terms: Summer
  • Host Program Website: Visit host website for more information
  • Restrictions: PSU applicants only
  • Budget Sheets: Summer
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Click here for a definition of this term Education Abroad Adviser: Chris Nischalke Click here for a definition of this term Housing: Apartment, Dormitory
Click here for a definition of this term Minimum GPA: 2.8 Click here for a definition of this term Class Standing: 2.5 - Second Semester Sophomore
Type of Program: Research Click here for a definition of this term Language of Instruction: English
Click here for a definition of this term Research: Yes
Program Description:

Overview

Eligibility

  • 18 years of age or above
  • Good academic and disciplinary standing at Penn State
  • GPA varies across programs (from 2.8 to 3.3 - please, check Arcadia website and consult the admission requirements for each research program)
  • Rising Junior (exceptions are possible, depending on student's research experience)

Program Description

Arcadia STEM Summer Research program is innovative research abroad program that offers students a unique opportunity to work on exciting, cutting edge research project at the top intensive research universities in Australia, the UK, and Spain. Students are choosing their research projects based on their field of interest and their prior research experience. The research abroad projects on this program are offered through eight research intense universities, and all of them have specific focus, as listed below:

1. King College London in England (Biomedical Engineering)
2. Royal Veterinary College in London, England (Biomedical Science)
3. University of Glasgow in Scotland (Biology, Physics, Astronomy, Psychology, Chemistry, and Geosciences)
4. University of Aberdeen in Scotland (Biomedical Science) [Note: This location is temporarily suspended for Summer 2023.]
5. University of College Dublin in Ireland (Biology, Neuroscience, Computer Science, and Ecology)
6. University in Limerick in Ireland (Engineering, and Science Education/Engagement)
7. The University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia (Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Psychology) [Note: This location is temporarily suspended for Summer 2023.]
8. IISTA in Spain (Environmental Sciences, Physics, and Mathematics)

Academics

Available Fields of Study

Astronomy, Astrophysics, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth and Mineral Sciences, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, Science, Statistics

Research Project Listings

To find research project at Arcadia STEM Summer Research program, follow the instructions on the host program page.

Research Project Selection

To find appropriate research project that will fit into your degree requirements, you will need to work with your academic adviser. Suggested tips:
  • Research projects that are within your field of study
  • Meet with your academic adviser to discuss potential research abroad and your degree requirements 
  • Keep in mind that research projects are on the first-come-first-serve bases, so you will need to discuss two back-up research project options as we
  • To apply for the research project, you will apply for one research STEM program, but in your personal statement you need to list two back-up options.

Academic Policies

  • You must enroll in a minimum number of 6 credits and a maximum number of 6 credits 
  • You cannot take any courses abroad on a Pass/Fail basis
  • World Campus courses should not be taken in addition to or as a substitute for courses offered abroad
  • You may not take sport or physical activity courses (e.g. sailing, bowling, yoga, etc.) abroad
  • If you are studying abroad in your final semester at Penn State, and you need these credits for your graduation, please note that Penn State may not receive your grades in time for graduation 

Course Equivalency Process

In order for research work from abroad to appear on your Penn State transcript, the research project must be given a course equivalency. Please visit the Academics section of the Penn State Global website for information on the course equivalency process.  

Research project description can be submitted for course equivalency after the research abroad program, however, you should begin this process as soon as possible as it can take on average 2-4 months or more for courses to receive a Penn State course number. In some cases, it can be difficult to obtain syllabi or project description from abroad before the start of the term, but when possible, courses and project description can be submitted for review before departure. Talk to your Education Abroad Adviser about requesting syllabi.

Grade and Credit Conversion Scale

Grades and credit conversions from your host institution cannot be changed. They will be converted to Penn State credits and grades based on the following scales:
 
Grade Conversion Scale
                 
UK Numerical Percentage UK Degree Class University of Glasgow University of Aberdeen University College Dublin University of Limerick The University of Queensland IISTA in Spain Penn State Grade
 70-100 First A1, A2, A3, A4 A1, A2, A3, A4 A+/A/A- A1 A 10 A
 65-69 Upper Second A5, B1 B1 B+ A2 A- 9-9.99 A-
 60-64 Upper Second B2, B3 B2, B3 B B1 B+ 7-8.99 B+
 55-59 Lower Second C1, C2 C1, C2 B- B2 B 6-6.99 B
 50-54 Lower Second C3 C3 C+ B3 B- 5.5-5.99 B-
 45-49 Third D1 D1 C C1 C+   C+
 40-44 Third D2, D3 D2, D3 C-/D+ C2/3 C 5-5.49 C
 35-39 Pass E1, E2, E3 E1, E2, E3 D/D- D1/D2 D   D
 0-34 Fail F1, F2, F3, G1, G2, H F1, F2,F3, G1, G2, G3 E/F F F 0-4.99 F
 
Credit Conversion Scale
Host Institution Credit UCD Limerick Queensland Penn State Credit
6 ECTS 5 Credits UCD 6 Limerick credits    3 Credits PSU
      2 units 4 credits
 

Instructions and Terminology

Different universities / educational systems use different grading scales and credits.
ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) is used in majority of European countries.
Australia uses unites, instead of credits.The UK higher education institutions have their own credit system.
 

Housing and Meals

Housing

Apartments, Residence Halls
Students will stay in apartments with other international roommates, that are self-catered. Meaning you will have your bedroom, and share a kitchen where you will be able to prepare meals.
Some programs offer on campus student apartments. (University of Glasgow, University of Aberdeen, University College Dublin, University of Limerick).

Independent housing is not permitted on this program. There will be no exceptions. 

Meals

Students will be responsible for their own meals.
 

Costs and Funding

Program Costs

Program costs are estimates and subject to change up to the program commitment deadline.

Summer Costs

All universities on this program have different program fees, but they all include: housing, logistical help prior and after the application, the lab equipment, pre-departure and advising during and after the program, health insurance.

The cost of a program is based on Penn State tuition rates and partner institution fees. Due to the variety of locations and partner institutions, costs will vary depending on the program. Education Abroad works closely with our partners to ensure the most accurate cost estimates, however, fees can change quickly and without prior notice. Consult the cost sheets for your chosen program often and if you have any questions please contact your Education Abroad Adviser. 

Scholarships 

The Education Abroad Office awards a number of grants and scholarships to students who participate in an education abroad program through Penn State Global. The application for the scholarships awarded through the Education Abroad Office is included with your program application. Eligibility is based on academic merit and/or financial need. You must have a current FAFSA on file to be awarded. There are additional scholarship opportunities through our partner universities, Penn State Academic Departments, and other sources. To view a full list of scholarships, eligibility requirements, and deadlines visit Funding Study Abroad.

Program Specific Scholarships

Student Aid

Penn State students who plan to study on a Penn State approved program can use most forms of financial aid towards the cost of the program. Exceptions include work-study awards and some athletic scholarships. If you have specific questions regarding your aid awards, contact the Penn State Office of Student Aid. 

Withdrawal & Refund Policy 

Withdrawal and refund details are dependent on the timing and reason for your withdrawal from a Penn State Education Abroad Program. For specific details and steps on how to withdraw, read the Education Abroad Policies. 

After Commitment

Once a student has committed to a Penn State Education Abroad program, they are financially responsible for any fees incurred on their behalf. Therefore, if a student plans to withdraw from a program it is their responsibility to immediately notify the Education Abroad office, in writing; email is preferred. 

Regardless of the timing or reason for the withdrawal, the student will be responsible for paying the Education Abroad Administrative Fees. Additional fees from the partner institution will be assessed according to their withdrawal and refund policies at the date of the withdrawal notice.

After the Start of the Program 

If a student withdraws after the start of a program, any adjustment of Penn State tuition charges will be made according to the Tuition Adjustment Schedule as determined by the Office of the Bursar. Students may be responsible for up to 100% of program costs. In most cases, partial credit cannot be awarded for leaving a program before its successful completion.

For additional information on withdrawal policies, separate and apart from financial consequences, please consult the University Senate Policy on Withdrawal and Leave of Absence.
 

Life Abroad

General Information 

Studying abroad can be one of the most exciting and transformative experiences of your college career. It is an opportunity to develop independence, build cross-cultural competencies, grow as a person, and enhance your academic program. Entering a new culture can be challenging for everyone. You may ask yourself: is this the right country for me? What are their cultural norms? How will my identity be perceived there? What can I do to prepare for this experience? What will my daily life be like? Below are resources to help you answer these questions.

Accessibility 

Penn State Education Abroad works closely with campus resources and our partner institutions around the world to ensure that students of all abilities reach their goal of studying abroad. While we cannot guarantee the accessibility of all program sites and locations, specific accommodations may be arranged on an individual basis. If you have accommodation needs or further questions please consult with the Student Disability Resources office and your Education Abroad Adviser. Additional resources are available through the Penn State Global Website. Disability information will not be used during the admissions process, but rather is meant to provide students with resources to help in planning a successful experience abroad.

Gender and LGBTQA

There are dramatic and subtle differences in how gender, identity, sexual expression, and sexual health are perceived in different countries. Before going abroad, it is important that you research the specific country or countries you will be visiting and have a full understanding of their cultural norms. Below are some resources to help you with that research and provide guidance for your life abroad.

Race, Ethnicity, and Faith

When choosing a study abroad location and preparing for your travels, you will want to be mindful of how your experience will be different than what you are used to in the United States. Your racial, ethnic, and spiritual identities may be interacted with and labeled by others differently than what you expect. Here are resources to help you prepare for these differences.

Non-U.S. Citizens

It is possible for non-U.S. Citizens to study abroad through Penn State. To do so successfully, you must plan early because this process may involve obtaining visas and other governmental procedures. Check with your DISSA Adviser prior to committing to a study abroad program and speak with your Education Abroad Adviser for specific information on the host country. If you plan on traveling to other countries during your study abroad experience, you will need to research and make plans to adhere to immigration policies for all of the countries that you plan to travel to and through. You are responsible for applying for visas for all applicable countries on your own. Advisers in the Education Abroad office cannot apply for your visa for you. Additional information may be available through your country's embassy and the consulate for your study abroad country.
 

Next Steps

Steps to Study Abroad

The planning stages outlined on the Penn State Global website will help you have the best study abroad experience possible. We recommend that you begin this process at least one year prior to the semester you plan on studying abroad. Visit the Steps to Study Abroad section of the Penn State Global website. 

How to Apply

Click the “Apply Now” button on this page to get started!

Application procedures can vary by program. Students should consult the application instructions available within each application. For more information, see the Application Process section of the Penn State Global website. 

Deadlines

You must apply to this program by the Penn State deadline. For a list of deadlines visit the Application Process page of the Penn State Global website.

Deadline: January 20th, 2020
If you apply sooner through Arcadia website, you will have better chance to work on the project that is the 1st on your list

Contact Education Abroad 

If you have general questions about Education Abroad opportunities at Penn State, please email EducationAbroad@psu.edu.

Peer Advisers

Education Abroad Peer Advisers are Penn State study abroad returnees who advise students on education abroad opportunities at Penn State. Each Peer Adviser can explain program options, give an overview of the study abroad process, as well as provide information about their experience abroad. Peer Advisers have walk-in hours in Boucke Building during the fall and spring semester when classes are in session. For more information, visit the Education Abroad Peer Adviser website. 

Education Abroad Advisers 

Education Abroad Advisers can provide information about courses, support services, application processes, housing details, program costs, cultural expectations, pre-departure requirements, and much more. Education Abroad Advisers have two types of meetings - scheduled appointments and walk-ins. For more information about how to meet with an Education Abroad Adviser, please visit the Penn State Global website. 

Social Media

Facebook for Penn State Education Abroad    Instagram for Penn State Education Abroad    Twitter for Penn State Global Programs   YouTube for Penn State Global Programs


For information about upcoming events, scholarship opportunities, deadlines, and much more visit the Penn State Global Events Calendar and follow us on social media!
 


Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Start Date End Date
Summer 2023 02/01/2023
02/11/2023 05/31/2023 07/26/2023

Indicates that deadline has passed