Overview
This program allows you to become fully integrated into the academic and social life of any one of EAP’s 15 exchange partners in England and Scotland. Each institution is a top public university that provides a consistently strong undergraduate education and offers a wide range of disciplines. EAP students attend classes with U.K. university students.
We have chosen our U.K. exchange partners carefully and each represents a wonderful opportunity in a great place. And although each institution offers distinctive opportunities and its own social and academic milieu, they are similar in academic structure. Relatively small classes, independent and self-directed study focused in the major, and easily accessible professors characterize the academic programs. Many institutions provide access to academic, cultural, and pre-professional opportunities that may not be available on your UC campus.
University of Edinburgh, science and engineering, fall semester: This option provides UC science and engineering students the opportunity to study at one of the United Kingdom's most established universities. Science or "natural philosophy" has been studied at Edinburgh since the university was established as the Tounis College in 1583. Famous alumni of the University of Edinburgh include Charles Darwin; Daniel
Rutherford, who discovered nitrogen; Alexander Graham Bell; and James Hutton, the founder of our modern geology.
Course Opportunities
Students take regular university courses in their major or a related field.
Use the following resources to learn about courses on EAP:
- EAP Program Search provides information on general areas of study.
- Host institution online catalogs or course listings:
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Imperial College London (year)
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University of Bristol (spring, year)
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University of Durham (year)
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University of East Anglia, Norwich (fall, spring, year)
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University of Edinburgh (year; fall—only for science and engineering)
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University of Glasgow (fall, year)
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University of Kent, Canterbury (fall, spring, year)
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University of Leeds (spring, year)
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King's College, University of London (year)
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Queen Mary, University of London (year)
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University of Manchester (fall, year)
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University of St. Andrews (year)
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University of Sussex, Brighton (fall quarter, spring two-quarters, year)
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University of Warwick, Coventry (fall quarter, spring two-quarters, year)
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University of York (spring two-quarters, year)
- MyEAP Course Catalog lists courses previously taken by UC students. Additional courses may be available and not all courses may still be offered. Since courses in new programs have not yet been taken for credit, they may not appear in the MyEAP Course Catalog.
University of Warwick quarter and two-quarter students may not use the MyEAP Course Catalog and should consult the Availability of Departments chart before selecting courses.
Units
You are required to take a full-time course of study while abroad; 21 to 24 UC quarter units are required each semester or 14 to 16 units per quarter. A total of 42 to 48 UC quarter units are required each year.
University of Edinburgh, science and engineering, fall semester: 16 UC units out of the required 21-24 UC units must come from the College of Science and Engineering. If you wish to take courses from another college (e.g., Humanities and Social Sciences), you must do this as units above the required 40 credits in the College of Science and Engineering.
Language of Instruction
English
Language Study
None
Internships, Research, and Independent Study
Independent study for academic credit may be possible in this program. Arrangements are generally made at the Study Center after arrival at the host institution. Predeparture preparation may be required. Internships for academic credit or life experience may be possible but depend upon making the arrangements and obtaining the correct visa before departure. Past participants have interned at cultural events such as the Edinburgh Film Festival, at various city councils, and communication companies such as the BBC.
Duration
Go to the Participants section to see current or past calendars.
Fall: September to mid-December
Spring: January to mid/late June
Year: September to late May or mid/late June
The University of Manchester fall semester runs through the end of January, but students in some departments may be able to arrange final exams in December.
Housing
You can choose to live in university dorms or in private off-campus housing, which may require a substantial daily commute in large cities like London. Each university provides an extensive housing website, filled with important information.
On-site Support
This program is overseen by EAP Study Centers in London (responsible for nine universities) and Edinburgh (responsible for six universities). UC faculty and local staff abroad help students integrate into the culture and provide assistance with academics, safety, and other issues.
See the EAP Program Guide (PDF) for program-specific details about host institutions, program structure, and courses; academic culture and conduct; internships, research, & independent study; units, exams, and grades; orientation; housing; and information about the intensive language program (if applicable).
Host Institutions
As part of the application process you will be asked to rank your top university preferences, so EAP recommends that you explore the host university websites. In evaluating the differences between universities, you might consider whether courses in your major are available to exchange students (especially in drama or art); the number of students enrolled; the layout of the campus; the size of the nearest city; nearby attractions such as the Lake District; the comments made by knowledgeable family, friends, and returnees; and your preference for an urban, suburban, or rural locale. You will notice that each U.K. host university is an enjoyable train ride from either London or Edinburgh, most have similar weather, and all offer a full complement of the usual campus amenities, sports facilities, and cultural learning opportunities.
The United Kingdom is full of wonderful opportunities, new people, and exciting destinations, so whichever host university offers you a place, you are
in for the time of your life!
- Imperial College London (year)
- University of Bristol (spring, year)
- University of East Anglia, Norwich (fall, spring, year)
- University of Durham (year)
- University of Edinburgh(year; fall-only for science and engineering)
- University of Glasgow (fall, year)
- University of Kent, Canterbury (fall, spring, year)
- University of Leeds (spring, year)
- King's College, University of London (year)
- Queen Mary, University of London (year)
- University of Manchester (fall, year)
- University of St. Andrews (year)
- University of Sussex, Brighton (fall quarter, spring two-quarters, year)
- University of Warwick, Coventry (fall quarter, spring two-quarters, year)
- University of York (spring two-quarter, year)
Imperial College London
Known for world-class scholarship, education, and research in its science, engineering, and medicine faculties, Imperial College London is consistently rated in the top three in the UK. The college enrolls approximately 13,000 students, two-thirds of whom are undergraduates; 27 percent of students come from outside the European Union. Its international reputation for excellence in teaching and research attracts high-quality students and faculty. Distinguished past members of the college include 14 Nobel Laureates.
Imperial College’s main campus, which includes the engineering and most of the natural sciences departments, is in South Kensington, central London. Other London-based Imperial College campuses, all within a short distance of South Kensington, are at Charing Cross, Chelsea and Westminster, Hammersmith, Royal Brompton, and St. Mary’s.
Please note: aeronautical engineering and math courses are not open to UC students.
Visit the Imperial College London website
University of Bristol
The University of Bristol is a traditional university in which students study in a single academic department. You may develop a personal study program to suit your individual needs. Strong disciplines available to you include biochemistry, chemistry, classics, computer science, economics, engineering (including civil, electrical, and mechanical), geography, history, law, physics, mathematics, religious studies, and social policy.
The campus is located in the Clifton area of Bristol, within walking distance of the city center. Bristol has a strong arts scene. Its distinguished history, stretching from medieval to contemporary periods, has left a rich legacy in architecture, literature, and science.
Note that courses in the following departments, faculties, and schools are not open to international students: Applied Community and Health Studies, Clinical Science, Clinical Veterinary Science, Community-Based Medicine, Exercise, Nutrition and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Graduate School of Education, and Oral and Dental Science.
Also, courses in the following departments and faculties are only open to participants in the year program: Aerospace Engineering, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Engineering Management Group, Engineering Mathematics, Faculty of Engineering, Geographic Sciences, Law, and Mechanical Engineering. Limited space is available in the spring in the School of Economics, Finance and Management.
Visit the University of Bristol website
University of East Anglia, Norwich
UEA is well known for famous alumni in film (Gurinder Chadha, who made Bend It Like Beckham, studied there) and creative writing (Malcolm Bradbury, author of the novel History Man, taught at UEA some time ago) as well as for its classes in Third World/Development Studies. Other strong disciplines of interest include American studies, biological sciences, chemistry, communications, drama (including theater history, theory, and performance), English literature, environmental/ecological sciences, film studies, and linguistics.
You are required to take two-thirds of your workload within the faculty in which your school is located, and you may take the remainder of your courses outside of your faculty. UEA’s International Office provides helpful information for both American students going to UEA and UEA students coming to the US.
Norwich, the town nearest UEA, is a beautiful British town, with a large cathedral and active nightlife. It is also on the Norfolk Broads, near the sea, and, if you want to visit London, the capital is only a one-and-a-half- to two-hour train journey away.
Visit the University of East Anglia website
University of Durham
Like Oxford and Cambridge, Durham is a collegiate university steeped in tradition. Students become members of, and reside in, one of 14 residential colleges, each with a unique sense of identity and community. The colleges range in size from about 300 to 900 students and provide accommodation, meals, libraries, computer rooms, and sports and social amenities.
Strong disciplines at the University of Durham include anthropology, archaeology, biology, chemistry, classics, computer science, economics, education, engineering (including civil and electrical), English, geography (including urban studies and environmental studies), geology, history, law, Middle Eastern and Islamic studies, music, philosophy, physics, political science, psychology, and religious studies.
Durham is a world heritage site with a magnificent Norman cathedral and a castle surrounded by a beautiful countryside.
Visit the University of Durham website
University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh enrolls about 24,000 students, and about 5,000 international students from more than 130 different nations. You can enroll in courses offered by the university’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, and Science and Engineering. Strong disciplines include accounting, anthropology, art history, Asian studies, biological sciences, business studies, Celtic studies, chemistry, computer science, economics, engineering (including chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical), English, environmental/ecological studies, French, geography, German, history, Italian, law, linguistics, mathematics, Middle Eastern and African studies, music, physics, political science, psychology, religious studies, Russian, sociology, and Spanish.
Honors (3rd year) courses in the humanities and social sciences at Edinburgh have limited space, particularly in the fields of English literature, history, politics, psychology, and sociology. If you are interested in these areas, be prepared to be flexible about course choices.
Renowned as a major international research center, the university has been recognized for its outstanding work in the study and application of languages, microelectronics, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and information technology. The central campus of Regency and Victorian buildings is located near the historic center of Edinburgh, and its modern science campus is a mile to the south.
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city. With a population of 500,000, it is a refined, historic, and lively city. Every summer it hosts the largest cultural festival in the United Kingdom.
Visit the University of Edinburgh website
University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow enrolls about 24,000 students, including about 2,000 international students from more than 80 countries worldwide. Strong disciplines include accounting, archaeology, art history, biochemistry, biological sciences, business studies, Celtic studies, chemistry, classics, computer science, drama (including theater history, theory, and performance), economics, engineering (including chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical), English, European studies, French, geography, German, law, mathematics, music, physics, philosophy, politics, psychology, religious studies, Russian, and sociology.
If you are interested in honor-level courses in English literature, film and television, theater, or politics, you must indicate this interest on your application. You cannot enroll in architecture, education, medicine, nursing, or veterinary medicine courses.
Teaching is by lecture, seminar, tutorial, and—for science subjects—practical laboratory classes. The university has excellent computing facilities, a wide range of support services, and well-equipped facilities for sports and recreation.
The attractive Victorian campus is situated about two miles from the center of Glasgow.
Visit the University of Glasgow website
University of Kent, Canterbury
The University of Kent is located on 300 acres overlooking Canterbury, a city that dates back to the 2nd century. Canterbury, with its magnificent cathedral, remains the seat of the Church of England, and is a commercial and shopping center for much of rural Kent. It is located an hour and a half east of London.
Strong disciplines include computer science, drama (including theater history, theory, and performance), economics, international relations, political science, and social policy. The School of Politics and International Relations is enlivened by Kent’s participation in the Brussels School of International Studies. The School of Drama offers an exciting and diverse program where students explore everything from Shakespeare to scenography, farce to feminism, acting to anthropology, and playwriting to performance art. There are also courses in design, directing, radio production, contemporary performance practice, and stand-up comedy.
Visit the University of Kent website
University of Leeds
The University of Leeds is one of the largest universities in the UK with a population of about 34,000 students. Approximately 1,800 international students from more than 65 countries attend the university. The university’s emphasis on innovative research and investment in high-quality facilities means that no fewer than 35 departments are rated, both nationally and internationally, as “excellent.” With more than 600 undergradutestate programs, the university offers the widest range of undergraduate courses in the UK. Strong disciplines include business, chemistry, communications, computer science, design, engineering, English (a 3.3 GPA is required for all English classes), fine arts, geography, history, law, mathematics, physics, and psychology.
Note: Level 1 and Level 2 studio art classes within the School of Fine Art are available to you, but Level 3 classes are not. However, you may take the following Level 3 studio art courses in the School of Design: DESN 3440 and DESN 3441. The School of Design also offers a variety of classes at different levels in drawing, printmaking, fashion and textiles, and digital media.
Leeds is one of the fastest growing cities in the UK. Located midway between London and Edinburgh, Leeds is a lively, modern city and an attractive base from which to explore the rest of the country. The 100-acre university campus is just a 10-minute walk from the city center. To escape city life, you can visit the impressive Yorkshire Dales and Lake District, with their awe-inspiring scenery and huge selection of outdoor activities and pursuits.
Visit the University of Leeds website
King’s College, University of London
King’s College, the largest constituent college at the University of London, enrolls about 22,000 students, including more than 4,000 international students. King’s College offers degree programs in schools of Education, Humanities, Law, Physical Sciences, Engineering, and Life Sciences, including Medicine and Dentistry. Strong disciplines include American studies, classics, computer science, film studies, geography, physics, and religious studies. The School of Biomedical Sciences offers a wide range of undergraduate program courses in the areas of anatomy, cell and human biology, biomolecular science, pharmacology, and therapeutic physiotherapy.
King’s College is located in the heart of London, close to the city’s many academic resources and rich cultural opportunities in music, theater, sports, museums, and art galleries. The British Museum, Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, and the West End are all within walking distance of the college, although student residences are located in many different parts of the city. Students should be independent, proactive, and able to afford living in central London, which is expensive.
Visit the King’s College, University of London website
Queen Mary, University of London
A part of the University of London, Queen Mary enrolls about 12,000 students in faculties of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law, Medicine and Dentistry, and Science and Engineering. Strong disciplines include economics, English, history, linguistics, literature, mathematics, modern European languages/literatures, and political science.
The Department of English features courses that focus on theoretical and cultural issues as they relate to the study of literature.
Queen Mary is located in London’s East End, a multicultural district with easy access to the city center. Living costs are less expensive than in central London. The university’s location provides students with the opportunity to study and observe the heart of government, media, business, and cultural activity.
Visit the Queen Mary, University of London website
University of Manchester
The University of Manchester enrolls over 40,000 students, and about 2,500 international students from over 180 countries. The university has more than 70 departments, which fall under the faculties of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Humanities, Life Sciences, and Medical and Human Sciences. Strong disciplines offered include art history, drama (including theater history and theory only), economics, engineering, English, music, physics, political science, psychology, and sociology.
Manchester is the only university in the UK that offers courses through a combined Department of Art History and Archaeology. Art history courses offered through this distinguished dual department combine the two interrelated disciplines.
Honors (3rd year) courses in the humanities and social sciences at Manchester have limited space, particularly in the fields of architecture, drama, English literature, history, politics, psychology, and sociology. If you are interested in these areas, prepare to be flexible about course choices.
Courses in dentistry, medicine, midwifery, and pharmacy are not available to study abroad students.
The university is located within the city and offers a big-city setting with a compact and friendly center. Manchester is modern and high-tech while maintaining its historic architectural heritage.
Visit the University of Manchester website
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews is the oldest university in Scotland, enrolling approximately 9,000 students in the United College of St. Salvator and St. Leonard (for arts and sciences), and St. Mary’s College (for divinity). The university is also home to approximately 1,000 international students representing 79 different nationalities. Both colleges have a cloistered, medieval atmosphere. Strong disciplines include anthropology, art history, biological sciences, business and management, chemistry, computer science, engineering (including electrical and general), English, environmental science, European languages, geography, history, law, mathematics, music, physics, philosophy, politics, psychology, religious studies, and sociology.
Visit the University of St. Andrews website
University of Sussex, Brighton
The emphasis at Sussex is on small group teaching in seminars of about 8 to 12 students. The curriculum promotes a high level of independent, self-directed study. The university distinguishes itself both academically and organizationally in its commitment to providing an interdisciplinary approach to study. You have the opportunity to take both departmental major courses and courses that span traditional departments. Strong disciplines include art history, biological science, chemistry, communications and media studies, computer science, English, history, international relations, mathematics, and political science.
The university is located on 200 acres of parkland near the south coast, just a few miles from the seaside town of Brighton, and an hour from London. The university is noted for its political and social awareness.
Visit the University of Sussex website
University of Warwick, Coventry
The University of Warwick enrolls about 16,000 students; approximately 1,000 international students from 100 countries also attend. Strong disciplines include biological science, business and management, computer science, creative writing, economics, English literature, history, mathematics, social work, and sociology. The emphasis is on small group teaching in seminars of about 8 to 12 students. The curriculum promotes a high level of independent, self-directed study.
Note: You cannot take classes in the Department of Politics & International Studies (PAIS). University of Warwick quarter and two-quarter students may not use the MyEAP Course Catalog and should consult the Availability of Departments chart before selecting courses.
Warwick is located on a 300-acre campus and is only an hour train ride from London. Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace and home to the Royal Shakespeare Company, is 12 miles from the university.
Visit the University of Warwick website
University of York
The University of York enrolls about 14,000 students from almost 100 countries. Strong disciplines include archaeology, art history, biological science, computer science, economics, electrical engineering, English (a strong English background is required), history, linguistics, music, political science, psychology, social policy, social work, and sociology.
With over 30 departments, and consistently ranked among the top ten UK universities, York has a great international reputation for the quality of its teaching and research. York encourages specialized study in your major field. Students at York are assigned an advisor or director of studies who helps them progress throughout the program.
The university occupies an attractive 200-acre lakeside campus at Heslington, just outside of York. York is one of the prettier historic towns in England. The city center features ancient timbered houses lining narrow, crooked streets. As a student city, York is big enough to feel cosmopolitan, but small enough not to be overwhelming. York provides excellent theater, cinema, concerts, and other cultural events as well as an attractive range of pubs and restaurants. Located on the north/south rail line, both London and Edinburgh are only about two hours away by train.
Visit the University of York website
