Upcoming Programs
2025 Study Away Programs
+ Key Largo (Canceled)
KEY LARGO, FLORIDA
August 1-4, 2025Come spend a few summer days in the Florida Keys while earning course credit!
Stay at a MarineLab and take several boat trips to learn about marine ecology and human impacts on the ocean. Snorkel the habitats that support dolphins, fish, manatees, mangroves, plankton, corals, and more!
Hands-on Coral Restoration with Mote Marine Lab.
Program Leaders: Professors Moran and Hayes
Program Courses: Oceanography (OCE2001C, 4 credits), Environmental Science (EVR1001C, 4 credits), or Natural Habitats (EVR2930, 1 credit)
Estimated Trip Cost: $1010 – Includes transportation to Key Largo, 3 nights lodging, all meals, snorkel gear, and scheduled activities.
Deadline: April 25, 2025 – $250 Non-Refundable Deposit Due
TO APPLY, CONTACT KIM SIMPSON AT KSIMPSON@POLK.EDU | 863.669.4917
2025 Study Abroad Programs
+ England (Canceled)
ENGLAND
Humanities
October 9-19, 2025Do you want to be part of an unforgettable adventure across the majestic landscapes and iconic landmarks of England? Join us as we journey through centuries of history and culture on our exclusive trip to London and picturesque towns surrounding it. From the mystical allure of Stonehenge to the grandeur of Windsor Palace, we will immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of British heritage. We will explore the quaint charm of Amesbury; there, we will meet with renowned archaeologist David Jaques who uncovered the first settlement in Britain. We will delve into the ancient mysteries of Salisbury Cathedral and indulge in the luxurious Roman Baths of Bath, UK. Feel the pulse of history at the Tower of London, marvel at priceless artifacts in the Victoria and Albert Museum, and unlock the secrets of the British Museum. Our program offers not only an adventure of a lifetime but also an enriching academic experience. Enroll in HUM2930 (1 credit) to delve deep into the captivating realm of British Mythology of the Middle Ages. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to broaden your horizons and create lasting memories. Sign up now, and let’s make history together!
PROGRAM LEADERS: Professor Lance Russum and Kim Simpson
PROGRAM COURSE: HUM2930 (1 credit)
ESTIMATED TRIP COST: $3,250 – Includes flight, lodging, transportation, tours, entrance fees, some meals, and insurance.
DEADLINES: $250 Deposit Due May 1, 2025 | 50% due June 1, 2025 | Final balance due September 1, 2025
TO APPLY, CONTACT KIM SIMPSON AT KSIMPSON@POLK.EDU | 863.669.4917
+ Italy (FULL)
Early Childhood Education
March 14 – 23, 2025Visiting the origins of prominent curriculum approaches such as Reggio Emilia and Montessori are part of the Early Childhood Education Study Abroad Program. During the Spring 2025 Semester, the program will visit major cities in Italy including Venice, Florence, Rome, and Bologna. A journey in a gondola, gazing on the Statue of David, standing beside the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and climbing the steps inside the Colosseum are just part of the experience. To trace the roots of Maria Montessori’s development of the Montessori method of education, the program will also visit Perugia which is home to the Montessori Training Center. The visit to Reggio Emilia, a city in central Italy near Bologna, will include the Loris Malaguzzi Center which is a living manifesto of the Reggio Emilia approach to education and learning.
PROGRAM LEADERS: Professor Debra Hazelwood and Kim Simpson
PROGRAM COURSES: CHD2220, CHD1380 and CEUs
ESTIMATED TRIP COST: $3,900 – Includes flight, lodging, transportation, tours, entrance fees, some meals, and insurance |$250 non-credit fee
DEADLINES: $250 Deposit due 9/15/24 | 50% due 12/1/24 | Final balance due 2/1/25
TO APPLY, CONTACT KIM AT KSIMPSON@POLK.EDU | 863.669.4917
+ Merida, Mexico
MERIDA, MEXICO
Instituto Tecnológico de Mérida
November 2-8, 2025 | Cost: $1,600See the world while taking your Network Systems Technology, Supply Chain Management, or Business course!
Students will tour Mérida and visit the Instituto Tecnológico de Mérida (ITM). You will have the opportunity to meet students from your virtual exchange course. Students can engage and collaborate with the ITM students for educational and cultural activities. Depending on your course, you will visit classes and tour businesses. Tours will include Port of Progresso, downtown Mérida, museums, Chichen Itza, and Dzibilchaltún.
PROGRAM LEADERS: Professors Rodrigues, Acevedo, and Dr. Nawlo
PROGRAM COURSES: CET2940, MAN2930, GEB2930, OR GEB4930
ESTIMATED TRIP COST: $1,600 – Includes flight, lodging, transportation, tours, entrance fees, some meals, and insurance |$250 non-credit fee
DEADLINES: $200 Deposit due 8/1/25 | 50% Due 9/1/25 | Final balance due 10/1/25
$250 scholarships available for virtual exchange course participants
TO APPLY, CONTACT KIM AT KSIMPSON@POLK.EDU | 863.669.4917
+ Morocco (CLOSED)
Morocco (CLOSED)
Business and Humanities
May 16 – 24, 2025Explore the vibrant culture and rich history of Morocco through the Study Abroad Association’s cultural immersion program. Scheduled in May, right after the 2025 Spring Semester, this nine-day journey will take you through the heart of Morocco, including stops in Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Marrakech, and more! Experience the grandeur of Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, the historical treasures of Rabat, and the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen. Walk through the ancient medina of Fes, marvel at the Roman ruins of Volubilis, and enjoy a camel trek into the Sahara Desert where you’ll glamp in luxury tents under the Arabian-night stars. The program culminates in the bustling city of Marrakech, where you will explore Jemaa El Fna square and visit local artisans. Beyond these cultural experiences, you’ll engage deeply with Moroccan society by visiting local businesses, exploring museums, and attending insightful university lectures. This immersive experience is designed to deepen your appreciation of global cultures and enhance your academic pursuits through real-world interactions.
PROGRAM LEADERS: Dr. Salma Wehrmeyer Nawlo and Professor Mary Ann Murdoch
PROGRAM LEADERS: Dr. Salma Wehrmeyer Nawlo and Professor Mary Ann Murdoch
PROGRAM COURSES: GEB2930, GEB4930, and HUM2930
ESTIMATED TRIP COST: $3,500 – Includes flight, lodging, transportation, tours, entrance fees, some meals, and insurance |$250 non-credit fee
DEADLINES: $500 deposit due Dec. 1, 2024, | 50% due Feb. 1, 2025, | Final balance due Mar. 1, 2025
INFORMATION SESSION: November 5 | 12:00 p.m. | Zoom | Email ksimpson@polk.edu for meeting link.
TO APPLY, CONTACT KIM AT KSIMPSON@POLK.EDU | 863.669.4917
+ London and Amsterdam (FULL)
London and Amsterdam
Art and Humanities
May 12 – 23, 2025Students will tour London and visit the British Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Tower of London, Tate Modern Museum, Camden Market, and the National Gallery. While touring London, students will see Westminster Abbey, Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, Trafalgar Square, and Piccadilly Circus. Students will travel to Amsterdam and visit locations such as Anne Frank’s House, Rijksmuseum, Museumplein,
Stedelijk Museum, Van Gogh Museum, and the STRAAT Museum. Students will also take a canal cruise to experience the historical city center of Amsterdam.PROGRAM LEADERS: Professor Bryan Rivers and Professor Andrew Coombs
PROGRAM COURSES: ARH2000 and HUM2930
ESTIMATED TRIP COST: $3,500 – Includes flight, lodging, transportation, scheduled tours, entrance fees, some meals, and insurance |$250 non-credit fee
DEADLINES: $500 deposit due Dec. 1, 2024 | 50% due Feb. 1, 2025 | Final balance due April 1, 2025
INFO SESSION: September 24, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. | Winter Haven Campus WFA 103
TO APPLY, CONTACT KIM AT KSIMPSON@POLK.EDU | 863.669.4917
+ Spain (CANCELED)
SPAIN (CANCELED)
Land of Many Cultures
June 7, 2025 – June 17, 2025The Land of Many Cultures Program provides an in-depth appreciation for Spain’s multicultural past and present with visits to its most iconic cities: Catalonia Barcelona, Andalusian Seville, Castilian Madrid, Valencia, and Alicante Granada. Each metropolis boasts its own distinct regional flair, cultural traditions, cuisine, and language. All regions have played a critical role in forming Spanish identity. Learn more as you connect with locals in sun-drenched plazas, seaside markets and corner tapas bars. With your expert local guides, you will see La Sagrada Familia, Montjic, Gothic Quarter, Barcelona Cathedral, Park Guell, Las Ramblas, Albaicin, Alhambra, Maria Luisa Park, Plaza de Espana, Barrio de Santa Cruz, Seville Cathedral, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Plaza de Oriente, Prado, the Royal Palace, and Puerta del Sol. You will enjoy activities like a cooking class in Valencia, Flamenco Dance in Granada, and a visit to an olive oil farm in Seville.
PROGRAM LEADERS: Professor Thelma Chicas
PROGRAM COURSES: SPN2930
ESTIMATED TRIP COST: $5070 – $5610 : Includes flight, lodging, transportation, scheduled tours, select meals and insurance.
DEADLINES: Register by January 6, 2025, through this link efstudyabroad.com/2794497HR
INFO SESSION: September 5, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. | Lakeland Campus 2205-2206
TO APPLY, CONTACT KIM AT KSIMPSON@POLK.EDU | 863.669.4917
+ Bahamas Cruise
BAHAMAS CRUISE with Professor Paul Howe
November 17 – 21, 2025 | Cost: $950
See the world while taking your hospitality management or business course!
HFT1000 (3 credits) OR GEB2930 (1 credit)
Cruising is the most complete tourism and hospitality experience as it includes transportation, accommodation, attractions, food and beverage, entertainment, casino gambling, and destination visits. Students will start with a tour of Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal. While on the cruise, students will make a resort site visit in Nassau, Bahamas, to a location such as Atlantis Resort or Baha Mar Resort. Students will also take behind-the-scenes tours of the various cruise departments to learn the operations for each of those areas. Also, included each evening is a group business etiquette dinner for the students to learn about proper protocol for dining etiquette.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE – August 1, 2025 | $250 deposit due
To register, contact Kim Simpson
ksimpson@polk.edu
