Otis College of Art and Design has established clear policies for travel and external study opportunities to ensure that students engage in these experiences safely and effectively. These policies encompass definitions, guidelines, and specific travel procedures to support students participating in study abroad programs, field trips, and other external educational activities.
Definitions within these policies clarify the different types of external study opportunities, including short-term travel courses, semester-long study abroad programs, and domestic field trips associated with academic coursework. External study typically involves any learning experience that takes place outside of the Otis campus, whether in a different city, country, or cultural context.
Guidelines for external study are designed to ensure that these experiences align with the college's academic goals and provide meaningful educational outcomes. Students interested in participating must adhere to specific eligibility requirements, such as maintaining a certain GPA and obtaining approval from academic advisors. Additionally, the college outlines the expectations for behavior, academic performance, and cultural sensitivity during these programs to ensure that students represent Otis College positively.
Travel policies provide detailed procedures for planning and participating in external study trips. These include requirements for securing travel insurance, understanding visa and passport needs, and adhering to health and safety protocols. Students are also guided on how to manage their finances during travel and what resources are available to them in case of emergencies. The college provides support through pre-departure orientations and continuous monitoring of the students' well-being during their time away. These travel and external study policies ensure that students can fully benefit from these enriching educational opportunities while staying safe and prepared.