South Korea: Seoul Women's University Social Welfare Program

SWU offers a tailored Social Welfare program for UNI Students. This customized program is intended to ensure that UNI Social Work students stay on track with their academic plan. Students have the opportunity to add an internship experience while taking classes at SWU. Upon applying students will choose from the following agencies for their internship experience.

• Aging/Gerontology
• Medical Social Work and Mental Health Services
• Community Social Welfare
• Children and Youth Services, School Social Welfare
• Persons with Disabilities
• NGOs and other social work agency settings

In addition to an internship opportunity, students will take a language course and one or two English taught Social Welfare courses. In addition to Korean Language courses, SWU Offers classes in the following subjects:

• English Language and Literature
• International Studies
• Asian Studies
• Mathematics
• Business Administration
• Bio and Environmental Science
• Industrial Arts

Semester Breakdown: 

• 120 hour internship (3 units) (8 hours every Tuesday)
• 1 language course (3 units)
• 1 or 2 English taught Social Welfare courses (3 units each)

Credits:
Credits at Seoul's Women's University are the same as in the U.S.

Grades:
A+ (95-100)         = A
A (90-94)             = A
B+ (85-89)           = B+
B (80-84)             = B
C+ (75-79)           = C+
C (70-74)             = C
D+, D0, F (0-69)  = no transfer

NOTE: In South Korea, only 30% of the students can receive an A in any given course, even if everyone earns the grade. Also, South Korean classes are very strict in attendance, typically students can only miss class three times before they fail automatically. 

Exchange female students will be placed in the International Residence Hall. Options include the following:

• Designated dormitory for the international students
• This building can only accommodate female students
• Twin room with shared bathroom & shower room
• Students may be asked to move to another dormitory during summer or winter breaks.

Dormitory Orientation is mandatory upon arrival. Curfew is 11:40 p.m., from Monday to Friday.

Male students must find off-campus housing accommodations. (SWU may assist in finding a place to stay.)

Meals:

Meal tickets are included in the dormitory bill and will be distributed at curfew. There are off-campus dining options as well.

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend the following steps:

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider Early
At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

2. Schedule a Travel Health Consultation (6–8 Weeks Before Departure)
A separate travel health consultation is essential and should be held at least 6–8 weeks before your departure. During this appointment, a travel medicine specialist can:

• Review your destination-specific health risks
• Recommend or administer necessary vaccines
• Provide guidance on food and water safety
• Prescribe medications for travel-related illnesses (e.g., malaria, traveler’s diarrhea)
• Offer tips for managing jet lag, altitude, and other travel-related challenges

These appointments can be held at the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility and Study Abroad: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern—whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs—we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Meet your Advisor:

Stephanie is a full time study abroad advisor who will help you throughout the application process to South Korea, including documentation, finances, scholarships, and more.  From the application process to financial assistance to preparing for your journey abroad, Stephanie will be with you every step of the way providing guidance and reassurance.

Identities Abroad

The Study Abroad Center (SAC) wants to support you as you prepare for your study abroad experience. In addition to course planning and arranging accommodations, it is also important to engage in personal reflection before your departure. There may be certain aspects of your identity that could potentially impact your international experience in ways that you have not faced or thought about previously. As we are here to help guide you, you may want to consider meeting with the SAC staff to discuss this as you plan your abroad experience. Please visit our Identities Abroad page for more information and help.

Entry and Exit Requirements:

Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to South Korea.

Immigration Information:

Students going to South Korea (Republic of Korea) for more than 90 days will need to apply for a student visa. 

Your Study Abroad Advisor will help you through this process but it is the student's responsibility to stay on top of the visa application process and to review the latest updates related to their destination country.