Field Study Semester

Non-Hampshire sponsored course-based and self-designed programs

What is Field Study?

The term "field study" at Hampshire refers to an approved semester of academic work or study that must be conducted away from the College (international or domestic) and falls outside of the menu of Hampshire Exchange (i.e. Hampshire-sponsored) programs. Course-based and self-designed field study are considered a full semester of enrollment that will count toward graduation.

Course-based Field Study

A course-based field study includes full-time study at another regionally accredited U.S. institution, at an internationally accredited institution, or on an accredited study abroad program. Completion of a course-based field study is documented through an official transcript.

Watch Maya Sause's Study Abroad Video (course-based)

Self-designed Field Study

A self-designed field study is a semester of full-time Hampshire enrollment, studying away from campus with a field supervisor or under the supervision of the Division II or III chairperson. This could include an internship, apprenticeship, field-based project, or participation in a non-accredited training program. In addition, the self-designed component could also be coupled with part-time enrollment in courses.

Watch Maggie Samuels' Study Abroad Video (self-designed)

Eligibility

Division II and first semester Division III students are eligible to participate
Program-specific restrictions may apply
Students must be in good academic, disciplinary, and financial standing to qualify for a semester of field study.
Review detailed information on eligibility requirements and policies in the Hampshire College Handbook under Exchange, Field Study, and Short-term Field Courses

Planning

Students interested in field study opportunities work with their faculty committees and the global education office (GEO) to devise the international experience most applicable to the student's concentration. Students should consider fulfilling divisional requirements through field study, such as:

Community Engaged Learning (CEL-2) (Div II)
Multiple Cultural Perspectives requirement (Div II)
Advanced Educational Activity (Div III)

After identifying the option that best meets their individual goals, students will need to visit the Center for Academic Support and Advising (CASA) to discuss their field study plans and go through the process of filing for field study. For general information on the application process and deadlines, visit Applying for Field Study.

For instructions on documenting work completed while on field study, please refer to central records.

Financial Information

Refer to Field Study Fees and Financial Aid for more detailed information.