Teach Abroad with CCSA
Lead a course.
Inspire global learning.
Grow professionally.
A Faculty-Led Model Built for Impact
CCSA (Cooperative Center for Study Abroad) is a nonprofit consortium of U.S. colleges and universities that organizes short-term study abroad programs during the early summer and winter break. Programs typically last 2–3 weeks and take place in English-speaking locations, including the UK, Ireland, Belize, and Australia.
Faculty teach one course alongside a small cohort of other faculty from across the disciplines (2–10 courses total), with shared excursions, cross-course connections, and support from on-site program directors. This model allows for robust mentoring and sharing of best-practices, so it's a great fit for faculty new to teaching abroad as well as those with decades of experience.
Benefits of Teaching with CCSA
1
Travel & Housing Covered
Round-trip airfare, lodging, most on-site transport, and educational activities are provided.
2
Per Diem & Stipend Included
Faculty receive a modest per diem, phone stipend, and $100 per enrolled student (up to $1,000).
3
Course Design Support
CCSA collaborates with you to develop, refine, and effectively promote your course.
4
On-Site Team Support
The program director handles logistics and leads the health and safety response.
5
Administrative Coordination
CCSA manages applications, billing, insurance, and risk management.
6
Companion Discount
A discounted rate is available for one companion, space permitting.
Faculty Eligibility
To propose a course, you should be:
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A full-time faculty member at a CCSA member institution
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Experienced in undergraduate teaching
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Able to design a course using the learning potential of the host location
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Approved by your home campus (adjuncts may be eligible with permission)
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Be teaching in the two semesters immediately preceding the time abroad
What’s Expected of Faculty
As a CCSA faculty member, you will:
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Teach one course integrated with the host environment
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Participate in shared activities and support a collaborative cohort of faculty
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Promote your course, especially on your home campus
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Attend faculty meetings and orientations
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Be present for the full duration of the program, including flying with students
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Assist in creating a safe and supportive learning environment
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Submit student grades and evaluations promptly
How it Works
Course proposals are selected based on:
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Academic merit and student appeal
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Connection to the program location
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Opportunities for site-based learning
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Cohort balance and disciplinary diversity
Timeframe | Step |
|---|---|
4-18 Months Out | Recruit for your course |
15–18 Months Out | Speak with your campus representative and department chair |
14-16 Months Out | Submit a course proposal |
13-14 Months Out | Receive decision and orientation schedule |
9-11 Months Out | Fine-tune learning objectives, submit initial syllabus |
1–2 Months Out | Attend in-person training, submit final syllabus, meet with students remotely |
Program Dates | Teach and travel with your cohort |
The High-Impact Value of Teaching Abroad
Well-designed study abroad courses are considered High-Impact Practices (HIPs) — learning experiences that promote deep engagement and long-term student success.
Key Elements of HIPs Abroad:
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Active discussion on meaningful topics
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Real-time feedback and reflection
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Cultural immersion and local learning
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Opportunities to publicly demonstrate learning
"Teaching abroad supports both student growth and faculty development — professionally, culturally, and personally."
(Kuh, 2008; Truelove, 2023)
