Each summer, Northwestern College professors lead 2-3 week courses in a variety of disciplines and countries. The trips are tailor-made for NWC students and fulfill the college's cross-cultural general requirement. Summer Study Abroad (SSA) timelines vary, but most take place in late May/ early June. 

The selection of destinations and course topics change each year. Northwestern professors have taught summer courses focused on community development, crossing cultures, ecology, history, language learning, music, nursing/ healthcare, religion, sociology, sports/ fitness and theatre. Locations we have been to in the past include: China, Czech Republic, Ecuador, England, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Greece, India, Ireland, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Oman, Romania, Russia, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand and Turkey.

By participating in an SSA trip you earn your general education cross-cultural requirement. Some programs have pre-trip coursework to prepare for what you'll be experiencing when you are out of the country.

These trips are open to freshmen through seniors. 

There will be a $250 deposit expected to hold your place in the program after acceptance. The total balance for the trip will be due May 1.

Italy Summer Study Abroad

This course will explore the ancient practice of pilgrimage by following in the footsteps of Saint Francis of Assisi as he made his way from Assisi to Rome. Experience Italian culture as we spend extra time in Assisi and travel through small villages and the Italian countryside on our way to Rome. Experience the spiritual disciplines of pilgrimage, prayer, and worship as we spend time in monasteries and church communities.  Learn about the Franciscan way of life as we learn about the life of Saint Francis and Saint Clare, and the impact they had on Roman Catholicism. 

This trip serves both as a cross cultural experience and an opportunity to immerse the group in the ancient practices of the Christian faith. For Roman Catholic students it is an opportunity to learn more about their tradition, and for Protestant students it’s a cross cultural experience both in culture and religion.