Study Abroad

Students often describe their international adventures as life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

You will not only enjoy the culture when you travel to a different country, but you will also continue to learn. Students can practice their proficiency in modern languages, and those majoring in history can experience global heritage sites firsthand. College study abroad programs are also an excellent addition to your resume and can aid you during your academic pursuits and future career.

Through the years, Oakton students have had the opportunity to study in India, Italy, the Netherlands and Peru. We've also partnered with the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) to increase our study abroad offerings to other locations around the world.

Oakton Study Abroad Programs

Study at the University of Ghana, Legon Campus. You will spend one month in Accra, Ghana in provided housing with free Wi-Fi access, daily transportation, and a meal plan. An Illinois community college faculty member will accompany the group to help with all logistics and support. A wide variety of local field trips, and two weekend-long field trips to Cape Coast and the Volta Region, are included in the program price.

You will earn six credits by completing two courses: Ghanaian History and Culture, and Ghanaian Literature, both taught by Professors at the University of Ghana.

Contact the Ghana Program Coordinator, Donovan Braud, dbraud@oakton.edu, or Global Studies Coordinator, Katherine Schuster, schuster@oakton.edu, for an application and more information.

Interest Form to Learn More About Accra, Ghana Trip

Students standing outside of Ghana University.

Study online with instructors in Ghana. These will be synchronous (Zoom) classes. Information about the facilitators and program details for 2026 is coming soon.

Sankofa Connections: History and Modern Culture in Ghana

May Interim 2026
HUM 290, 1 credit
Six sessions

Contact the Global Studies Coordinator, Katherine Schuster, schuster@oakton.edu, for an application and more information.

Participate in a 14-day Environmental Studies, Conservation, and Cultural Immersion program, including time studying in Delhi, Mathura, Pune, the Western Ghats, Mysore, and Bangalore.

May 21-June 3, 2026
Application Deadline: February 15, 2026

This program invites participants to explore the interconnectedness of environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and community resilience in India. Through engagement with schools, grassroots organizations, and conservation initiatives, students will examine how diverse stakeholders address the urgent challenges of sustainability, education equity, and cultural preservation.

By applying the principles of Fair Trade Learning, participants will recognize that meaningful change arises through reciprocal partnerships, shared responsibility, and respect for local knowledge. Ultimately, this journey challenges students to reflect on their own role as global citizens in building more equitable and sustainable futures.

Contact the Global Studies Coordinator, Katherine Schuster, schuster@oakton.edu, for an application and more information.

Oakton belongs to the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs. Through ICISP, Oakton is able to offer the programs listed below in addition to our own study abroad programs. Browse the ICISP website at the links below to learn more about the countries and curricula that await you.

Interested in learning more? Contact the Global Studies coordinator for ICISP program application.

 ICISP Semester Programs

ICISP Summer Programs

Katherine Schuster
"Experiential learning opportunities like study abroad play a key role in preparing students to develop skills needed to reach their academic and personal goals and help Oakton realize our vision of creating just and thriving communities."

Katherine Schuster

Distinguished Professor of Education and Coordinator of Oakton's Study Abroad Program.

Additional Information

Funding Your Trip

We understand that funding your study abroad trip can be a barrier. Oakton is dedicated in supporting all students with gaining this opportunity. There are a number of scholarships available through the Educational Foundation and ICISP to assist with costs:

Korbel Study Abroad Scholarship Endowment
Scholarship for a student enrolled in a study abroad program offered by Oakton or through the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP), for summer, fall, or spring term. The student should be registered for a minimum of 6 credit hours and have a GPA of 2.75 or better.

Sister Cities Endowed Scholarship
Scholarship for students enrolled in a study abroad program through the Illinois Consortium for International Studies, with a 2.5 GPA or higher and minimum of 12 credit hours. Award can support expenses related to study abroad.

Find more Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICIPS) scholarships here.

Info Sessions

 

Academic Concentration in Global Studies

Oakton offers a special program concentration in global studies. Students who seek to dig deeper into foreign cultures, international relations and more can pursue this 18-credit-hour academic program in conjunction with their study abroad plans.
About the Global Studies Concentration

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