Degrees in Multiple Countries

You’re ready to start your educational vagabond experience, but where to begin? Would you like to cowabunga the beaches of Australia, bustle through the busy markets in Thailand, or tour the world famous art in the Louvre? The only trouble you’ll have is deciding which route to take when earning multi-country degrees abroad!

Europe is an attractive destination for adventurers like yourself. When getting your degree abroad in multiple countries, Europe excels thanks to each country being so culturally diverse, and yet close enough together to zip across borders in the blink of an eye. Not to mention this makes degrees in global studies and lessons in diplomacy a breeze. Take in the art, the culture, and the ancient history as you fly from the hearty streets of Germany to the high fashion in Italy. Capture castles and cold brews in the Czech Republic, or dine on the finest cuisines in France.

For a real cultural difference from the western world, pursue your multiple countries degree abroad in Asia. You won’t be disappointed by the buffet of modern skylines, crystal clear waters, and looming mountains that Asia has to offer. Cruise China, where you’ll see the showstopping skyscrapers of Hong Kong, frolic through the financial center of Shanghai, climb the astounding Great Wall of China in Beijing, and sneak a peek at the Monk’s life in Tibet. Mosey down to the southeast to let yourself relax on Thailand’s utopic beaches, and climb the dramatic limestone cliffs that dangle over the sea in Railay. Head north to indulge in shopping and tasty street food at the bustling open air markets of Bangkok, then peacefully stroll through the glistening palaces in Chiang Mai. You won’t regret taking a dip in eastern culture on this gorgeous continent.

Maybe you’re searching for the rainforest, the surfing hotspots, or the outback! Degrees abroad in Oceania open up a sea of options. While most programs are based in Australia, you’re just a hop, skip, and jump away from destinations like Fiji, Indonesia, New Guinea, and the Philippines. The Land Down Under boasts a buffet of art, food, and wildlife adventure, too. Snorkel with the sea turtles along the Great Barrier Reef, or surf and play on Bondi beach. Take a hike in one of the many national parks or in the depths of the rainforest. When you’re done, take in shows at the Sydney Opera house, or analyze Aboriginal art at Australia’s galleries.

Since you’ll be traveling to many countries throughout the course of your education, the opportunities for growth are endless. You’ll have the rare opportunity to complete multi-country degrees abroad in parts of the world that others only dream of. There are programs for any combo of major, minor, and discipline, but the most popular include global studies, international diplomacy, and the arts.

Study the interconnectedness of the world through a global studies program. See how people interact politically, economically, and culturally to promote positive connections throughout the world. International diplomacy is similar with a heavier dose of politics. Or, for your inner artiste, ogle at the paintings and sculptures of the world with a program in the arts. If you think about it, these are all logical topics to study while you’re country hopping. Seeing traditions, government, and culture firsthand instead of through a book? Seeing the raw depths and inner workings of a country straight from all of the artists’ pieces? Yes, please! Experience is the best way to learn.

You can expect to travel around for one to three years for master’s or doctorate degrees, and three to four years for a bachelor's degree program. While you’re busy crossing borders while tackling your degree abroad, you’ll pick up a fair amount of foreign languages, too. Classes are usually taught in English, but you’ll naturally learn some handy phrases in each new country. Class structure and expectations will vary from place to place. Just keep an open mind and heart for this adventure, and the classroom won’t be the only place that gets you thinking.

Everyone knows that traveling can be expensive. It’s no secret that sometimes you’ll need to scrape together spare change from under those couch cushions (so to speak) to make it work. However, in the end, any wanderluster will tell you that the experience is worth the sacrifice. Some of multicountry degree programs are pricey, but keep in mind that several include the cost of travel, tuition, and housing between each new country and city. While you will likely pay more than at most universities, the benefits of traveling will world will outweigh the cost for the rest of your life. It’s worth it to invest in yourself.

Can’t quite stack up the funds? Don’t fret. Most multi-country degree programs like these have very hefty scholarship funds that you can take a look-see at via GoAbroad’s Scholarship Directory. In fact, most programs encourage students to apply for their scholarships because they know the cost of travel can be steep, but it’s an experience they want to provide for students of all backgrounds. Just make sure to save up as much as you can, work out a budget before leaving, and you should do just fine. You could also considering reaching out to friends and family via FundMyTravel. Lookin’ at you, Aunt June. 

Through most multi-country degree programs, housing is provided in many different forms. You could be welcomed into a homestay with a local family, taste some home cooked meals, and hear some of the native tongue. Other possibilities might include living with a group of students in flats or dorms, or hostels/hotels for shorter stays. Some programs even allow you to find your own housing if you wish, which will allow you lots of personal freedom, but that will be on your own dime.

Visa requirements vary country to country and depend on the length of your stay. For shorter stays, all you need is a tourist visa, which is usually valid for 60 to 120 days. Any longer than that, and you will likely need to apply for a student visa through your local embassy. Find your closest embassy in the GoAbroad Embassy Directory. Your program will usually provide details of what kind of visa you’ll need and answer any questions you might have. Just make sure to start any visa or passport applications well in advance of your departure since these can be time consuming processes. 

Once you’ve tackled your studious years roaming the globe and finishing your degree, you’ll be employable and unstoppable. Any job in diplomacy or international studies will be in the palm of your hand, but even if that’s not your path of study, employers will have their socks knocked off when they see you’ve taken it upon yourself to earn your degree abroad. Traveling requires a great amount of planning, problem solving, flexibility, and a good sense of humor. You’ll be a pro in all of these skills, and they just so happen to be what the boss is looking for.

Taking on an multinational degree can be a big mountain to climb. In addition to your normal schoolwork, you’ll be responsible for visas, travel paperwork, budgeting your travel funds, and adjusting to new cultures. There can be lots of distractions on the road, and balancing travel fun time with school work can be a challenge. So check yourself before you wreck yourself. Before you take on this cool responsibility, make sure you are ready for the commitment of time, money, and hard work. Traveling is one of the best ways to learn, just make sure you get to class on time too!

Apart from scoring your dream job, you’ll feel a great sense of accomplishment knowing you’ve conquered this path less traveled. Travel shapes you into a well-rounded and self-sufficient being. When you’re dependent on yourself to sign up for classes, to plan a weekend excursion, or even to make your flight on time, you’ll learn how strong you really are. So what are you waiting for? Pick your multi-country degree program, pack your backpacks, and say bon voyage! The world is waiting.