Study Abroad

Global Experiences at Northwest University

Let the world shape your story

At Northwest University, we believe that to be a competent leader in the world that is constantly changing, some of the most transformative learning happens when you step into a new place, experience a new culture, develop your cultural competence, and see faith lived in new ways. That’s why NU offers three types of global experiences—each created to help you explore boldly, live adventurously, and let new worlds give new depth to your story. 

Semester Study Abroad

Live, learn, and immerse yourself in another country.

A full semester abroad gives you time to settle in, build relationships, and become part of the rhythm of daily life in another culture. You’ll take classes that count toward your NU degree, learn from local professors, and deepen your worldview in a way that only comes from living somewhere new.

Students often spend semesters in places like South Korea, Japan, New Zealand, Italy, Oxford, U.K., and Latin America, depending on the program. Whether you're drawn to bustling international cities or programs rooted in creation care and community engagement, there’s a place for you to grow.

Short-Term Global Immersion Trips

High-impact learning in 1–4 weeks.

If a full semester feels out of reach, NU’s short-term global immersion trips offer meaningful global learning in a shorter timeframe. Led by NU faculty, these trips blend travel, academics, and cultural exploration in ways that bring coursework to life.

You might study Scripture in the Holy Land, explore business and innovation in Asia, learn about education or child development in Latin America, or dive into environmental stewardship in the Pacific. These trips often include hands-on experiences like fieldwork, interviews, or service alongside local partners—the kind of moments that stay with you long after you return home.

Global Service & Mission-Integrated Experiences

Learning through compassion, community, and shared purpose.

Some NU global programs focus less on lectures and more on relationships—serving alongside local leaders, supporting community projects, and learning what ministry looks like in different cultural contexts. Students often describe these experiences as both grounding and eye-opening.

You might work in education, youth programs, social services, community development, or cross-cultural ministry. But more importantly, you’ll become part of a story that is bigger than your own.

Which Path Fits You?

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

  • Semester Study Abroad is best if you want deep immersion and the chance to live within another culture.
  • Short-Term Immersion Trips work well if you want a global experience that complements your major and fits your schedule.
  • Service-oriented Programs are ideal if you feel called toward hands-on community engagement or ministry.

Each option will shape you in a different way, but all of them will expand your understanding of the world and of yourself.

What You’ll Gain Along The Journey

No matter where you go or how long you travel, students consistently return with:

  • A clearer sense of purpose
  • A deeper awareness of how God is moving in the world
  • Greater confidence and adaptability
  • A willingness to navigate uncertainty with courage rather than fear
  • Insight into their strengths, limitations, and calling
  • A deeper love for people whose stories look nothing like their own
  • Friendships that cross borders and last for years
  • Cultural competency to lead organizations with transnational teams

These experiences change the way you see the world — and how you see your place in it.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

For Semester Abroad and Global Immersion Trips, NU’s International Education team is here to help you choose the path that fits your goals, your major, and your sense of calling. 

For Service and Mission Trip Experiences, NU’s Campus Ministries can help you participate and lead a mission trip, fulfilling the sense of call and following the Great Commission Jesus leads us into.

When you're ready, we’ll help you explore programs, understand requirements, and plan your next steps.