Study Abroad Programs

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Overseas Travel Experience (OTE)

International experience is at the heart of the International Studies major. Every student must complete at least one Overseas Travel Experience (OTE) as part of the program's intercultural learning curriculum, and it is a required prerequisite for INTS 400: The Capstone Seminar in International Studies.

Requirements

To fulfill the OTE requirement, students must spend a minimum of 16 days in a foreign country or a U.S. overseas territory (such as Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, or the U.S. Virgin Islands).

Study Abroad (Recommended)

Students are strongly encouraged to complete their OTE through a UNM-affiliated study abroad program. Visit the Global Education Office to explore available programs and get started.

Independent Travel Experience (ITE)

Students who wish to design their own travel experience may propose an Independent Travel Experience (ITE) instead. All ITEs must:

  • Receive prior approval from the ISI Capstone Instructor
  • Include a meaningful educational or work-related component, such as:
    • Intensive language study
    • Work internship or apprenticeship
    • Volunteering
    • Short-term faculty-led educational travel

For volunteer and internship opportunities, explore Workaway.info or Idealist.org. You can also download the ITE Proposal Form to get started.

Please Note

Tourism alone does not fulfill the OTE requirement unless it incorporates a significant educational, volunteer, or work-related component.