EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING PROGRAMS
Through off-campus sites, flexible scheduling, and non-traditional
approaches and technologies, the University brings higher education
opportunities to a variety of individuals for whom a traditional
college schedule is not an option. Relying on the strengths and
quality of Francis Marion University, innovative programs and delivery
methods are designed to bring the University to the community.
By scheduling programs at area high schools and by working with
South Carolina's technical colleges and area corporations, Francis
Marion brings programs to those who cannot attend classes on campus.
INTERNSHIPS
Internship programs provide introductions to career options in
professionally related work experiences in business, industry, government,
or service agencies. Internships are offered by individual departments
to allow students to gain practical work experience in a particular
field while working on a degree. This work experience is usually
unpaid and may offer academic credit if there is appropriate faculty
supervision. Students generally work between eight and 12 hours
a week while also taking other classes. Rules of eligibility and
lists of companies offering internships can be obtained from departmental
offices. Some departments require internships as part of the curriculum
in certain disciplines.
COOPERATIVE EDUCATION
Cooperative Education involves alternating periods of academic
study (coursework within the major) and periods of related work
with the participating Cooperative Education employer. Work periods
normally take place during the sophomore and junior years and usually
last one semester. To qualify for participation in the program,
students must have successfully completed 30 semester hours of academic
work and make formal application in the department overseeing the
experience.
The work assignment is considered an integral part of the student's
education. Each completed work period will appear on the student's
transcript, but no academic credit is awarded for this experience.
Normally the student will not be enrolled in any classes during
the semester of the work experience. During the Cooperative Education
program the student will be classified as full-time. Full-time status
provides a way to address insurance, taxes, loans, and other concerns
surrounding university status.
To enroll in the program, a student must obtain a form from the
Director of Career Development, obtain approval from his/her department
chair/dean, and return the completed form to the Director of Career
Development.
EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
The university encourages students to maximize their learning experience
by studying abroad. FMU currently provides exchange programs in
cooperation with universities in Australia, England, Germany, Mexico,
New Zealand, and Switzerland. Plans to expand the exchange programs
are under way. For more information about the Exchange Programs,
contact the International Studies Coordinator at 843-661-1552.
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