About SPAN
A year after the end of World War II, a group of students at the University of Minnesota dreamed of a way in which they could satisfy their growing curiosity about the world outside the United States and simultaneously make a contribution to a better world. After many meetings with University officials who dared to extend academic approval, and after receiving contributions from several metropolitan businesses, the SPAN program was organized. The idealism of the group was obvious in the name selected--Student Project for Amity Among Nations. It was further evidenced in the motto that appeared on the stationery:
"It is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness."
Groups of SPANners from the University of Minnesota, each with a faculty advisor, traveled and studied in the summer of 1947 four European countries. Since that small beginning, the program has grown to include students from 17 Minnesota institutions and has become one of the most respected study abroad programs in Minnesota. Indeed, in many respects, SPAN is unique in this country. Since 1947, more than 4,000 students have shared the SPAN research experience in more than 75 countries and cultures. More than 1,500 of the research projects completed by SPANners are now on display in the SPAN Library located next to the SPAN Office, 331 Social Sciences Building, at the University of Minnesota.
A unique independent research opportunity
SPAN offers students a chance to travel to intriguing destinations. More importantly, the program gives students the opportunity to map out their own, unique research and study abroad experience.
How? With help from qualified academic advisors, students select a topic of their choosing to explore and research in-depth and ultimately write extensively about.
Before departure, students decide what subject they want to pursue. They gather background information, initiate professional and personal contacts within the host country and arrange in advance to meet and visit with experts in the chosen research area. At regular scheduled meetings throughout Spring semester, SPANners meet with members of their travel group and their SPAN academic advisor. Together they examine the history, culture, language, and current events of the host country. Students make their own arrangements for travel and accommodations.
During the eight-week summer stay in the host country, students carry out their individual research projects. They conduct interviews, visit with experts, uncover new research avenues, and document their findings. They also have opportunities for sightseeing, recreation, relaxation and cross-cultural exchange.
Students return home and during Fall semester to organize and compile their findings. By mid-December, they draft an initial version of their SPAN paper, about 50 pages long, similar to a thesis. The paper is due for completion mid-Spring semester. Many SPAN papers have qualified as senior papers at the University of Minnesota.
Earn eight undergraduate/graduate credits
Successful SPAN participants earn four credits for their preparatory work. The second grade (also four credits) is based solely on the paper and is assigned after two outside readers and the student's academic advisor review the paper. (University of Minnesota FSSP 5960 and FSSP 5970).
Special arrangements may be made to receive graduate credit for SPAN. Students receive fewer credits and must make special arrangements with their academic departments. Please contact the SPAN office for more information.
Minnesota's oldest, one-of-a-kind study abroad program
SPAN is open to students from all Minnesota colleges and universities and was Minnesota's first study abroad program. Today's students are part of the greater legacy of the program. They act out the intentions of the founders of the program and reflect upon how the globalization of the world had changed in the past sixty years. Thousands of SPAN alumni provide current students with support.
Reasonably priced, scholarships available
Every SPAN participant is eligible for a scholarship. What's more, because students arrange their own itineraries and living accommodations, this study abroad program often is more economically priced than other programs to similar destinations.
A student-run, non-profit organization
For more than fifty years, students have kept the SPAN organization alive by getting involved in day-to-day office or outreach activities, interacting with former SPANners and alumni, or speaking up on behalf of SPAN. In addition to helping the program survive on a shoestring, student volunteers keep the program innovative. Student volunteers and board members are rewarded with valuable career experience and leadership training.
Go places
The SPAN experience has been described as "eye-opening," and "transforming." It can have a lasting impact on the student's education and profoundly influence the participant's career path.
Apply now
Student applications are now being accepted. Apply early to ensure a position for the destination of your choice.