University of North Alabama

Studying abroad was an experience that I always wanted, and the Scotland trip was the perfect fit! The program allowed me to learn from Historic Environment Scotland professionals in both rural and urban settings, and to connect with other students in my field. Those connections were invaluable back at UNA and have continued to be so in my career!

Jessie Johnson (BA in History, 2022; MA in Public History, 2024)

Taking the opportunity to study abroad or study away (domestic travel) is often one of the most rewarding academic experiences students have while studying History at the University of North Alabama. These programs allow students to deepen their historical knowledge by studying with places, landscapes, archives, and communities.

UNA History regularly offers study abroad and study away courses that allow students to earn 3–6 credit hours in upper-level undergraduate or graduate coursework. Courses are academically rigorous, with high expectations, and many programs are open to non-majors, making them an excellent option for students across the humanities and social sciences.

One of the department’s signature offerings is the Scotland study abroad program, which builds on a long-standing partnership with heritage organizations and cultural institutions in Scotland. Students travel to historic cities and rural landscapes, gaining hands-on experience with historic site documentation, cultural heritage preservation, and public history methods. Coursework integrates classroom discussion with fieldwork at historic sites, offering students the chance to apply historical thinking in real-world settings while developing professional skills relevant to careers in history, museums, preservation, and related fields.

Study abroad and study away programs are optional and do require students to pay for travel and living expenses. To help make these opportunities more accessible, the university and the History Department offer scholarship opportunities, and many students successfully combine multiple funding sources to offset costs.

Interested in studying abroad but concerned about funding? Students are encouraged to explore grants and fundraising ideas through Global Learning at UNA: https://www.una.edu/global-learning/for-una-students/funding.html.

For more information about upcoming programs, eligibility, or course credit, please email history@una.edu.