Academic Focus
This program allows you to further your studies in almost any major while studying in the heart of London. You may choose courses from the University of Westminster’s full course catalog, or from areas for which Westminster in best known such as the Arts, Design or Psychology. London focused courses, designed specifically for study abroad students, are also available. This program offers you full immersion into the British education system, to study alongside both British students and other international students. The University of Westminster has three campuses based in the City of Westminster in a district known as the “West End”, particularly known for its shopping and entertainment. The central London campuses are also just minutes away from famous landmarks such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The majority of Semester students will study at one or two of Westminster's three campuses, based on their field of study. Students studying the Arts will be based at the Harrow campus, approximately 40 minutes outside of central London.
One academic year of coursework at the University of Westminster is generally worth 120 University of Westminster credits. You will register for a schedule of classes totaling 60 University of Westminster credits per semester. Most courses offered are worth 15 University of Westminster credits equivalent to four US credits per semester. Therefore, students will typically earn 16 US credits per semester. Remember, it is at the discretion of your academic advisor exactly how many credits will be awarded.
Schedule Summary
The number of contact hours for each course varies and may be comprised of a mixture of lectures, seminars and tutorials. Due to the differences in the British higher education system, there is no standard for the number of days a week a course may meet. Class meeting times vary across departments and subject areas. Expect the number of times you meet with your class to be different than what you are used to at your home institution. Although the number of contact hours, in class assessments and homework assignments may be fewer than you are used to, it would be a mistake to think that this means less work is required. In preparation for your classes, you are expected to read extensively, participate fully in discussions and develop your own ideas and arguments.
Registration
You will be required to submit your course selections and alternates to the CEA headquarter office prior to departure for London. This will allow you to be pre-registered for entry into your chosen courses. When choosing courses, make sure you are looking at the campus designation. Due to the travel time between campuses, you must choose a home campus and take the majority of your courses on that campus. Final course registration will take place during Orientation during a meeting with an Academic Advisor. While in London, you must enroll in four courses per semester. There are no required courses. If you wish to enroll in courses offered through the School of Communication and Creative Industries at the Harrow campus, you are required to submit a portfolio for review with your course selection. This should consist of slides, photographs or digital images of your work, demonstrating your level and suitability for the course. To ensure the registration process runs smoothly, it is in your best interest to have courses, including alternates, approved by your academic advisor prior to departure.
To learn more about course requirements for your particular session as well as information regarding your host institution, you may click on the appropriate links above.
