Study Abroad
Upcoming Study Abroad Trips
VT Faculty-Led: Animals in a Global Context: Australia and New Zealand
Spring (embedded) 2027
3 credit hours, APSC 3954
Open to all majors!
Travel dates: May 27, 2027, to June 15, 2027
Application deadline: November 15, 2026
Program Overview
The core educational purpose of this program is to increase awareness among students about animals in a global context, specifically Australia and New Zealand versus the United States. Factors such as human-animal interactions, the effects of global markets, indigenous cultural factors, agriculture and the environment in New Zealand and Australia will be explored while also improving students’ ability to communicate interculturally with those whom they meet.
A combination of seminar programs and travel/field elements will focus on animals in a global context, including practices, challenges, and opportunities where New Zealand/Australia may do things very differently from the United States. Students will visit a number of towns, cities, and the surrounding countryside, including zoos, wildlife refuges, working farms and agri-tourism sites, as well as museums and other world-famous tourism and cultural sites such as the Sydney Opera House. Areas of focus include:
- Seasonal grass-based dairy, beef, and sheep systems, including the grazing and reproductive management needed to support these farm systems.
- Alternative farming systems
- Agri-tourism
- Environmental challenges and opportunities including water supply and increasing frequency of drought; sustainability; renewable resources, etc.
- Interfaces between agriculture, urban areas, and wildlife
- Companion animal issues such as feral cats and dogs
As a SAS student, you are encouraged to go beyond the boundaries of campus and explore educational opportunities abroad. Study Abroad is an opportunity to enhance and broaden your academic and professional experience, which could be life changing.
The Global Education Office (GEO) reports the top ten reasons why to study abroad:
- Experience the world
- Gain a new perspective
- Go beyond the classroom
- Excitement and adventure
- Learn a different language
- Grow and learn more about yourself
- Expand your network globally
- Gain a competitive advantage
- Set yourself apart
- If not now, when?
There are several ways that you can study abroad, including:
- Faculty Led Programs
- Semester Abroad and Exchange Programs
- Independent Study Abroad
- Internships and Work Abroad
If you are interested in studying abroad, below are some helpful resources:
- Global Education Office
- Study Abroad and Global Opportunities for Students
- University Resources for International Engagement
Dr. Wood is the study abroad advisor for SAS and a great resource. If you have any questions, email piglady@vt.edu.
Fall 2026 | 15 Credits
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
April 1, 2026
Spend a semester in Chile through an immersive Virginia Tech study abroad program developed in partnership with the Universidad Austral de Chile’s UACh–VT Center for Global Sustainability. Engage in field-based learning and undergraduate research while exploring animal sciences, aquaculture, sustainability, natural systems, tourism management, and conservation in the Los Ríos and Aysén regions of Chile.
Ideal for students in:
Biological sciences- Animal sciences, agriculture, public health
- Environmental science &
conservation - Natural resources, ecology, forestry
- Any major interested in field-based learning
.jpg)
Open to all majors!
VT Faculty-led Study Abroad:
Introduction to the Sport Horse Industry in Germany
Spring (embedded) 2026
Travel Dates: May 18- May 31, 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
December 1, 2025
Open to all majors!
VT Faculty-Led: Animals in a Global Context:
UK and Ireland
Spring (embedded) 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
November 15, 2025
Related Articles:
-
Article Item
5 secrets about study abroad every Hokie should know , articleStudying abroad isn’t just about where you go – it’s about how it changes you. Start planning your adventure at the Study Abroad Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday under two big white tents on the Drillfield.
-
Article Item
In the British Isles, students find new routes to pursue agriculture passions , articleA study abroad experience exploring policies, practices, and livestock in the United Kingdom and Ireland was eye-opening for 26 students studying animal and poultry sciences. The experience inspired many to consider new possibilities for their future careers, graduate degrees, and travel opportunities.
-
Article Item
Study abroad program students develop research skills despite being grounded , articleThe established study abroad program switched to an intensive online internship program, giving Virginia Tech students skills in research design, programming, and data analysis as they analyzed food insecurity and conservation agriculture data from Ecuador.