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Social Work Study Abroad Programs

Social work is a powerful field rooted in equity, advocacy, and empowerment. Studying social work abroad gives you the chance to examine international systems, explore cultural responses to social issues, and experience how global communities support mental health, education, and human rights. From urban centers to rural villages, you’ll gain practical skills while engaging with policies, challenges, and solutions firsthand.
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Seamester

Featured Provider of the Month

158 Social Work Study Abroad Programs

9.138 reviews

Adelante Abroad

Semester Study Abroad in Seville, Spain - Adelante Abroad

Seville is one of the most loved destinations among tourists. Enj...

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University Studies Abroad Consortium

USAC Australia: Gold Coast/Brisbane - Undergraduate Courses

Spend one or two semesters in the “Sunshine State” of Australia, ...

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AIFS Abroad

AIFS Abroad in Valencia, Spain: Semester

Spend a semester or academic year in Valencia, Spain, with AIFS A...

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StudyAbroad.com

Study Abroad in the USA (Monroe University)

Experience the energy and excitement of New York City while study...

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WorldStrides

Study & Research Abroad in Geneva, Switzerland

Spend a semester at the University of Geneva, which involves mont...

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CIEE College Study Abroad

CIEE Summer + Semester Internships Programs

CIEE offers the most extensive network of internship programs. A...

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New York University

Focus on Public Health at NYU Accra in Ghana

Experience life in a developing nation while exploring one of Afr...

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IFSA, Institute for Study Abroad

IFSA Chilean Universities Program, Valparaíso

The Institute for Study Abroad offers study-abroad opportunities ...

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MAXIMO NIVEL

Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America

Live and study in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Maximo Nivel...

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International Medical Aid (IMA)

IMA Cross-Cultural Care Mental Health Internships Abroad

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CIS Abroad

Affordable, Comprehensive Study and Intern Abroad Programs

CIS Abroad Study and Intern Abroad programs are some of the most ...

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IES Abroad

IES Abroad Madrid – Language & Area Studies

The IES Abroad Madrid Program is designed for those who want to e...

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SIT Study Abroad

SIT Study Abroad: India: Public Health, Gender, & Sexuality

India has a long and complex history of interventions in reproduc...

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Deakin University

Study Abroad for a Semester at Deakin University Australia

Broaden your academic horizons while having amazing opportunities...

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Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

Study Abroad at UAB: Tailor Made Study Programs for Groups

This is a unique, tailor-made learning and living experience inte...

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Forum-Nexus Study Abroad

Ultimate Summer in Europe: 5 Countries in 1 Month

Experience an unforgettable summer taking classes and traveling t...

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Mente Argentina

Dynamic Academic Semester: Study & Immerse in Buenos Aires

Embark on a dynamic academic journey in Buenos Aires with Mente A...

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Spanish Institute for Global Education

Study Abroad in Seville: Full-Semester Study Abroad Programs

Would you like to embark on a life-changing university experience...

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ACT (American College of Thessaloniki)

The American College of Thessaloniki (ACT) Sailing Academy

Enroll in a sailing course at ACT, and earn academic credit and a...

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Columbia University School of Professional Studies

Study Abroad at Columbia University SPS

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A Guide to Studying Social Work Abroad

Prepare for Studying Social Work Abroad

Understand the benefits

Studying social work abroad allows you to explore global approaches to community wellness, advocacy, and systemic change.

  • Learn cross-cultural models of care. Discover how different cultures support vulnerable populations.
  • Develop critical thinking and empathy. Challenge your perspectives and grow in cultural competency.
  • Build a global network. Connect with peers and professionals in international social work.
  • Enhance your career potential. Gain experience in healthcare, education, human rights, or advocacy sectors.

Things to know

Social work study abroad requires preparation, flexibility, and a willingness to engage deeply with communities and their lived realities.

  • Consult with your advisor. Ensure your coursework abroad aligns with your degree plan and credit transfer requirements.
  • Topics may be emotionally heavy. Be prepared for deep conversations on trauma, injustice, and inequality.
  • Be adaptable and respectful. Cultural humility is essential when working with different social systems.
  • Language may be a barrier. Some programs require basic proficiency in the local language.

Popular Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

Top destinations for social work studies include Europe, which offers diverse models in healthcare, psychology, and child development. Brazil focuses on poverty, welfare, and social injustice, while Chile emphasizes human rights and community development. In India, you can gain insights into the impacts of the caste system and grassroots healthcare, and South Africa addresses healthcare access and resources through service learning.

Studying social work abroad enhances cross-cultural understanding and exposes students to diverse social issues and solutions. It provides hands-on experience in tackling healthcare, social justice, and community challenges, offering a global context for local concerns. This international exposure equips students with the skills and resilience needed to address social issues effectively, broadening their professional perspectives and impact.

Top social work programs focus on healthcare, social justice, and community and child development. Healthcare programs explore access issues and systemic improvements. Social justice programs tackle human rights, inequality, and legal policy, preparing students for global challenges. Community and child development programs cover family planning, grassroots organization, and youth mentorship, offering insights into local social systems.

To find social work study opportunities abroad, research universities with strong international programs or specialized study abroad providers like GoAbroad. Look for programs that align with your interests, such as healthcare or community development. Also, consult social work departments at your institution, as they often have partnerships with overseas universities or NGOs, providing structured paths to study and work internationally.

Yes, there are scholarships for social work students studying abroad. Many organizations offer funding for global study in fields like social work. Additionally, some universities provide grants or scholarships specifically for students in social work programs, often supporting internships and field placements that involve community service or social justice work.

Latest Program Reviews

the best experience of my life

December 03, 2025by: Emma Bottacin - ItalyProgram: Study Abroad at the University of Sussex
10

I am absolutely grateful to have joines sussex!!! the best experience of my life. I met so many new friends and took part in a crazy amount of cool experiences. I will keep carefully this experience in my heart

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