JMU offers students the opportunity to study abroad at Britain’s oldest and most respected universities: the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge in England, and the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Students are permitted to enroll in these universities as full-fledged participants, and may customize their studies to pursue their own interests. Credits earned through these programs may fulfill major, minor, General Education, Honors, and/or elective requirements at JMU. Studying at Oxford, Cambridge, or St. Andrews is a rare experience, and the Honors College strongly encourages all students to at least consider this opportunity.
These programs are not limited to Honors students, but Honors students are typically ideal candidates. The unique modes of education at Oxford, Cambridge, and St. Andrews require students to possess academic focus, independent learning skills, intellectual maturity, and substantial work ethic in order to thrive at these presitigious institutions.
Students may apply up to 9 credit hours from an Oxford, Cambridge, or St. Andrews experience to their Honors Interdisciplinary Studies minor. Upon return to JMU, students will need to notify the Honors Advising office of these credits, so they can be appropriately counted.
Timing
The earliest a student should generally consider studying at Oxford, Cambridge, or St. Andrews is spring of sophomore year. The term structure at St. Andrews is fairly similar to American universities, but Oxford has several terms that do not perfectly align with what American students may be used to.
"Spring" at Oxford includes two eight week terms: Hilary Term (January-March) and Trinity Term (April - June), with a six-week break between the terms. Students typically earn 12 credits for each of these terms, for a total of 24 credits. "Fall" includes an extended 12 week Michaelmas term (September-December), for 15 credits. Students interested in summer studies at Oxford may enroll in "Late Trinity," a six-week term running May-June.
Cambridge hosts a 4-week summer term which begins in July.
Application Information
Applicants to these programs must have a minimum GPA of 3.3. Applications require a statement of purpose and one (Cambridge, St. Andrews) or two (Oxford) letters of recommendation.
Participation is not restricted to Honors students. Any qualified JMU student is eligible.
Questions?
Interested students should contact Sara Hodges in the Honors College Advising office.
Mon - Fri: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
