Developing & Proposing a New Exploration Seminar

A Call for Proposals for 2009 programs wil be issued in Spring 2008.
Click here for text of official Call for Proposals for 2008 Exploration Seminar programs.

General info for those considering submitting a proposal
The University of Washington’s Exploration Seminar Program is preparing for future global Exploration Seminar study programs, which are typically month-long, study experiences that take place during the UW’s Early Fall Start period from late August to late September.

These 5-credit seminars are open to all continuing UW students, and faculty from all UW disciplines and from all three campuses are encouraged to apply. The primary director for new programs must hold a multi-year or tenure-line faculty appointment at the University of Washington. For their efforts associated with developing and directing a program, the faculty director receives compensation of $7500 plus benefits, and is provided with airfare, housing, and modest daily stipend. 

Directors serve as the primary designers, coordinators and recruiters for their programs. The Exploration Seminar program provides support in the form of program development consulting, marketing, recruitment, enrollment, fiscal support, and more. Ideally, seminars count towards fulfilling specific degree or general education requirements for students, and are led by faculty with experience in the proposed site, and who have access to a sizeable pool of students from which to recruit.

Although Exploration Seminars have traditionally been developed as international study abroad programs, programs within the United States are also considered.  Submissions are especially encouraged which target less-visited regions, as well as students and disciplines that are traditionally under-represented in study abroad.

A formal call for proposals takes place annually in early fall. If you would like to express interest in directing an Exploration Seminar, or have any questions about these programs or developing a proposal, we encourage you to contact us any time throughout the year. We suggest first looking at the following documents:

• the proposal writing guide provides information on what typically makes a good Exploration Seminar proposal and program.
• the program director job description explains much of the work involved in developing and leading a program, and details the typical duties and responsibilities of program directors.

Please peruse this website to get a better idea of the programs we offer, and contact Max Savishinsky, Exploration Seminar Program Director, at 206.221.6137, or explore@u.washington.edu if you have further questions or would like to meet to discuss the development of a new program.