
Study Abroad + NSE in SPED
Why study abroad?
This past year, UW-Eau Claire ranked 27th nationally among public and private master's-level schools in the overall number of students it sends abroad. It's the only school in Wisconsin among the top 30 institutions; one private school in Minnesota also is on the list. In other words, we know the value it adds to your degree, and we make it happen for students in all majors.
Study Abroad in Special Education
The special education department has developed partnerships in Scotland allowing for a unique Blugold study abroad experience. Not many pre-service teachers have the opportunity to teach and learn overseas. Hear reflections about the trip from students.
The Scotland experience
Studying abroad leaves lasting impact on Blugold
When Erin Beyer was offered the chance to study abroad in Scotland to earn her emotional and behavioral disorders certification for teaching, the special education major was nervous but determined to do it. A year later, she has the certificate as well as a newly found confidence that comes with successfully pushing herself outside her comfort zone.
“Studying abroad was intimidating to me at first, but looking back, it was the best experience I had at UWEC,” Erin said. "UWEC has given me the opportunity to travel across the world, increase my depth of knowledge in teaching, and create lifelong connections with fellow students and faculty."

Study abroad planning
Studying abroad can be overwhelming. You want to graduate in four years and still be able to afford it. With these helpful tips, you can do those things and have an amazing experience.
Fit in study abroadWhat's National Student Exchange?
Having a new cultural experience does not have to happen overseas. UW-Eau Claire is one of 200 universities participating in National Student Exchange, which allows students to spend a semester at a campus is one of 49 states, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Canada or Puerto Rico. While paying their Blugold tuition rate, students are able to have a whole new academic and cultural experience, progress toward graduation and gain valuable diversity of perspective.

Finding adventure, direction in Alaska
Special education major Lauren Stepanik’s experience studying in Alaska through the NSE program has opened doors to multiple experiences and potential career paths.
Finding herself in the great outdoors