It’s Never Too Late to Study Abroad
Reimagining Study Abroad
Elective is a study abroad program created specifically for adults. We offer immersive small-group courses led by local experts on a wide range of subjects, in the places that bring those subjects to life.
These courses give lifelong learners the chance to engage in meaningful travel and intellectual exploration, with the flexibility to pursue their interests on their own terms.
Go Beyond Sightseeing
Choose an Elective in a place you’ve never been, or one you’ve visited many times.
Study a subject you already know about, or one that’s entirely new to you.
Wherever you go, explore topics you’re passionate about while connecting with like-minded peers. Learning in context deepens your understanding, broadens your perspective, and ties it to the wider world.
Every destination becomes the prism through which you learn.
The Elements of Elective
Deep Learning in Context
Through Field Seminars, Daily Discussions, and Self-Guided Study, courses are designed to immerse you in a single topic. The places you visit and the people you meet become integral to your learning, offering a depth of understanding that goes far beyond a classroom.
A Collegial Cohort
Engage with a small group of like-minded peers who share your curiosity and passion for the subject matter. Discussions create a collaborative atmosphere that enhances learning and fosters meaningful connections.
Expert Faculty With Local Insight
Learn from instructors who are not only experts in their field but deeply connected to the community. They bring subject matter to life by providing context that is unique to the place you’re studying, blending academic knowledge with local perspectives.
Thoughtful Comfort
Enjoy four-star accommodations and a seamless travel experience, carefully planned so you can focus on learning and discovery. Extracurricular activities and plenty of free time allow you to connect with the destination on your own terms and at your own pace.
Choose Your Elective
Select from a wide variety of subjects and locations.
Moorish Spain: The Architecture & Cuisine of Andalusia
Women in Paris
Mediterranean Currents: Morocco’s Waterways & Civilization
World Religions in Istanbul
Sample Elective Schedule (8-Day Program)
Sunday
Arrivals & meet your cohort
Welcome Dinner
Monday
9:00 Morning Meeting
10:30 Field Seminar
Free time for lunch
2:30 Self-Guided Study
5:30 Daily Discussion
Free time for dinner & evening
Tuesday
9:00 Morning Meeting
10:30 Field Seminar
12:00 Daily Discussion
Free afternoon & evening
Wednesday
9:00 Morning Meeting
10:30 Field Seminar
Free time for lunch
2:30 Self-Guided Study
5:30 Daily Discussion
Free time for dinner & evening
Thursday
9:00 Morning Meeting
10:30 Field Seminar
12:00 Daily Discussion
Free afternoon & evening
Friday
9:00 Morning Meeting
10:30 Field Seminar
Free time for lunch
2:30 Self-Guided Study
5:30 Daily Discussion
Free time for dinner & evening
Saturday
Free day and/or recommended activities for continued Self-Guided Study
Farewell dinner
Sunday
Depart at your leisure
Elective ensures that every detail is thoughtfully planned to create an enriching and seamless experience.
From accommodations in 4-star hotels to course materials and comfortable transport between locations, everything is curated to help you focus on learning and discovery.
Meals and Extracurriculars are designed to be flexible, so you can engage as much or as little as you prefer, with plenty of free time.
Elective Essentials
