Non-Credit Domestic Off-Campus Programs

All offices on-campus must follow the appropriate policies for off-campus travel. All sponsoring  academic departments must notify International Education of the off-campus programs/travel being offered. Contact Sarah Huesing, Study Abroad Advisor (651.962.6484 or sehuesing@stthomas.edu) to coordinate the steps for taking students off-campus.

As far in advance as possible:

• Contact International Education for guidance in completing the following steps. A staff member in International Education will be assigned to serve as your liaison throughout the process.
• Prepare timeline by which you will require the students to have completed their online travel registration.

Before selecting students or confirming student participation:

• Verify the good standing (both academic and conduct) of each applicant.
• Conduct probation status can be checked in collaboration with the Dean of Students office.
• Academic status can be verified either via Murphy or by requesting an unofficial transcript from each student.

During the semester prior to departure:

• Require students complete the online travel registration. International Education will provide you with a link to the registration for distribution to your group.  You must ensure that all students complete this registration.
• Require any accompanying travelers (for example, a parent) to sign the appropriate waiver.  Contact International Education to obtain the waiver.
• Conduct orientation sessions for students which include information on:
        * A general overview of expected behavior on the program
        * Travel Safety information
        * General health issues or concerns (e.g., students should make the group leader aware if they have a chronic condition).   
• St Thomas Student Health Services is available for consultation and can conduct a session on health and safety for travelers.
• If you plan to rent a car during your off-campus travel, review the UST Motor Vehicle Operation Policies, Procedures and Certification Program, and you will need to complete the Authorization to Obtain Driver Record form.
• Based on the emergency contact information provided in the online travel registration, the IEC staff will provide both you and Public Safety with a complete list of emergency contact information. You are required to carry this with you during your travels.