On this program, UNC students directly enroll at Lancaster University for a semester or academic year for an opportunity to fully integrate into the academic, social, and cultural life. Lancaster is a comprehensive university offering courses that would be a good fit for many UNC students. You may apply as an
exchange student or as a
non-exchange/studyabroad student. No matter your classification, you will take courses alongside degree-seeking Lancaster students, have access to student housing, and participate in all aspects of student life.
The University
A "new" university, Lancaster University was chartered in 1964, and has quickly gained an excellent reputation as both a teaching and a research university. The university is known for its flexible, innovative curricula, and as a research center it ranks in the top 10 universities in the UK. The student body numbers about 6,500 undergraduates, of whom about 200 are likely to be North Americans. Lancaster won the Queen's Award in 1994 for its work in special needs; students with mobility disabilities will find the campus highly accessible.
The City
Lancaster is located on the west coast of England, near the beautiful mountains and lakes of the Lake District and the valleys of the Yorkshire Dales. The capital city of North Lancashire, Lancaster offers a wealth of historic, academic, and cultural opportunities.
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Academics at Lancaster
UNC students at Lancaster are fully integrated into the university and have virtually the same range of classes to choose from as the British students.
An important feature of Lancaster's offerings is the wide range of science courses available to U.S. students. Lancaster has the top Physics department in the UK and the top environmental science research program in Europe. A special advisor is available for pre- med and pre-vet students to assist with course selection.
Lancaster has a number of other special academic features. The Management School at Lancaster is one of the largest and most highly regarded in the UK, offering a wide selection of undergraduate courses at different levels. The School of Independent Study offers U.S. students the opportunity to pursue independent research projects for credit through working closely with a Lancaster faculty member. Lancaster offers one of only two women's studies majors in Britain. Additionally, Lancaster offers workshop- based creative writing courses, again one of only two British universities to offer this option.
Lancaster may be a good fit for other UNC majors/minors as well, including English, Geography, History, Music, Political Science, Philosophy, Religion, Psychology, Linguistics, and Speech and Hearing Sciences.
For details about available subject areas and classes, you can browse Lancaster’s Study Abroad Course Handbook.
Each academic department has a study abroad advisor experienced in advising students from outside the UK. The aim is to ensure that students get the most out of their time abroad, academically and personally.
The British education system
The British educational system positions students to be more independent and pro-active in their learning. Rather than multiple assessments throughout the semester, students may be graded only on a final essay and/or exam. Students may find that they are spending less time inside the classroom, but the expectation is that they will spend increased amounts of time engaged in independent study. While this system may prove challenging for U.S. students, many students thrive on the freedom to direct their education and welcome the exposure to a Graduate School-style approach.
Courses in this program are Transfer Credit.
Transfer Credit Courses (not taught by UNC Faculty): ACTION REQUIRED