Carefully read through the Overview, Timeline, Proposal Requirements, and Resources sections.
Note all deadlines and requirements for the current cycle.
Select a course topic that aligns with your academic area, complements Maryville College’s mission, and lends itself to a place-based, global learning experience.
Choose a location where the course content comes to life through fieldwork, site visits, and cultural immersion.
Consider if your course will be:
Standalone or linked to a semester course.
Open to all students or targeted by major, class year, or language ability.
Academic Fit: Review the curriculum to determine how the course meets general education, major, or certificate requirements.
Destination Knowledge: Research cultural, political, safety, and logistical factors for the intended location.
On-the-Ground Partners: Identify local institutions, guides, NGOs, or tour operators who could support program logistics or learning outcomes.
Cost Estimation: Begin collecting sample prices for airfare, accommodations, meals, ground transportation, site visits, and insurance.
Division Chair: Confirm academic approval and discuss how the course fits within your department’s offerings.
Core Chair: Discuss how your course might fit for any core requirements
Center for Global Engagement (CGE): Schedule a consultation with CGE to:
Review early ideas and logistics.
Get help identifying providers/partners or contacts abroad.
Learn about risk management and budgeting guidelines.
Define clear, measurable learning outcomes aligned with global learning and the goals of the course.
Map out a tentative itinerary, showing how each activity or excursion supports the academic content. (a study abroad provider can help with this!)
Consider pre-departure and re-entry assignments that prepare students for travel and deepen reflection.
Use the Budget Planning Template provided on the proposal site.
Include estimated costs for:
Faculty travel.
Student program costs (accommodation, in-country transport, group activities, meals).
Emergency contingency.
Additional costs (not in your program fee, but students should plan for these)
Consult CGE to refine your budget and ensure compliance with college policies.
Identify any accessibility or equity concerns (e.g., physical access, visa issues, cost barriers).
Research current State Department and CDC travel advisories for your destination.
Think through student interest and recruitment strategy — who is the target audience and how will you engage them?
Access the official Travel Study Course Proposal Form from the CGE website.
Ensure that all required sections are complete, including:
Course description
Learning outcomes
Itinerary
Budget
Leader Information
Provider Information
Safety & accessibility considerations
Submit your full proposal package to the Center for Global Engagement by the posted deadline.
Late or incomplete proposals may not be considered.
Your proposal will be reviewed by the International Programming Committee and relevant academic units.
Be prepared to:
Answer questions or clarify details.
Adjust your itinerary, global competency/CD Domain plan or budget based on feedback.
Collaborate with CGE on next steps once approved.