seoul cheonggyechon park at night
Seoul, South Korea

Semester in Seoul

New for Spring 2025!

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Dates

-

16 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

16 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Spend a semester studying abroad in Seoul, a vibrant, modern metropolis that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. Designed for students from all academic backgrounds, this exciting program invites you the flexibility to explore a wide variety of disciplines in diverse settings, with courses offered both at CIEE Seoul and through Hanyang University, CIEE’s esteemed partner institution and one of Korea’s leading universities.  

When class is in session, you’ll choose from a unique mix of courses you need to move forward in your studies including STEM, art and architecture, humanities, business, and social sciences, and a variety of courses with a local flavor offered exclusively at our CIEE center in downtown Seoul. This flexible program is meant for students looking to explore the many corners of Seoul while staying on track with their academic goals.

Outside the classroom, you’ll participate in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, including a series of off-the-beaten-path trips to cultural attractions to bring your studies to life. From the historic palaces of the Joseon Dynasty to the towering skyscrapers of Gangnam, discover why Seoul is where tradition meets innovation and look at its captivating blend of past and present. You’ll also have plenty of free time to wander through bustling markets, hop among trendy cafés, hike the mountains, and visit the many palaces, fortresses, and temples that dot the city.  

Unique Experiences

Explore cultural and historical landmarks

such as Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung palaces, and Bukchon Hanok village

Enjoy a picnic and relax by the Han River

in the expansive surrounding parklands

\

Discover traditional Korean arts and crafts

and try you hand at them yourself

100,000

COFFEE SHOPS NATIONWIDE, WITH CAFÉ-HOPPING A NATIONAL PASTIME

7

ISLANDS IN SEOUL ALONG THE HAN RIVER, INCLUDING YEOIDO, WHERE THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY IS LOCATED

3

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL TEAMS, INCLUDING THE LG TWINS, DOOSAN BEARS, AND KIWOOM HEROES

Experience
  • inside crowded market in seoul
  • seoul students buddy language exchange korean
  • seoul bongeunsa temple

Your Destination

Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, beckons with its irresistible blend of tradition and modernity. Ringed by mountains, dotted by parks, and divided into north and south by the Han River, Seoul offers a dynamic environment for personal and academic growth. The city's vibrant streets pulse with energy day and night, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences ranging from traditional tea houses and ancient palaces to trendy cafés and gleaming skyscrapers.

As the educational, financial, cultural, and political capital of South Korea, Seoul is at the center of everything. This megacity is home to more than 9 million people, but each neighborhood has its own distinct unique charm. Insadong, Bukchon, and Ikseondong are filled with winding alleys lined with hidden cafés, craft studios, restaurants, and boutiques in traditional Korean Hanok houses, while Apgujeong, Jamsil, and Cheongdam-dong’s wide avenues create a park-like atmosphere for shopping, gallery hopping, and socializing between towering skyscrapers. You can use Seoul’s bike-share system to take a ride along the Han River Park in the morning, drop in at Sewoong Maker City Arcade to do some 3D printing at city-provided startup and tech facilities in the afternoon, and then take in the sunset from a mountainside temple, all without leaving the city.

Moreover, Seoul's unparalleled transportation system ensures easy access to all corners of the city and beyond, allowing you to explore its diverse neighborhoods and hidden gems. Whether relishing a hearty meal of dumplings and savory pancakes at Gwangjang Market, wearing traditional clothes for a photo shoot at Changdeok Palace’s famed gardens, strolling along the picturesque Cheonggye Stream, or checking out the latest trends in fashion and technology in Gangnam, Seoul offers endless possibilities for fun and learning. With its captivating blend of tradition and innovation, there’s no more intriguing and exciting place to embark on your journey.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Seoul. 

The Culture

seoul mate friends abroad ciee park laying picnic

Excursions & Activities

CIEE programs boast frequent co-curricular, social and cultural activities as well as day and overnight trips uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance cultural immersion.  

Co-Curricular Activities 

Every course offers different co-curricular opportunities depending on the curriculum and study field. Some may feature guest speakers, laboratory work, workshops, or excursions. Activities may include site visits to relevant landmarks or locations in Korea that illustrate content explored during class sessions or hearing from relevant guest speakers who will bring their expertise to show students a different cultural, academic, and professional perspective. CIEE Seoul also organizes activities with local undergraduate students (through the Seoul Mates Program) who engage in language exchange activities to practice Korean, English, and share cultural notes

seould students making kimchi

Social and Cultural Activities 

While in Seoul, participants might:  

  • Visit palaces, Buddhist temples, shamanist shrines, traditional villages, or Seodaemun Prison to learn about the colonial and pre-democratic era  
  • Engage in cooking lessons to learn more about Korean cuisine  
  • Tour architecturally, historically, or culturally important neighborhoods, local markets, and sites within Seoul and beyond, such as Seoul City Wall to learn about the geography, history, and development of Seoul  
  • Learn about religious practices in traditional Korea at Seowon and Hakdang (Confucian schools) and Buddhist temples  
  • Go to ecologically significant sites like Nami Island  
  • Engage in community service activities like teaching English to seniors, making audio books for the blind, mentoring refugees from North Korea, or animal rescue   
  • Enjoy CIEE-organized day trips to help you explore and enhance your understanding of Seoul’s diverse location; past day trips have included site visits to Gwangjang Market, Mungyeong Fortress and Ceramic Village, Gyeongbokgung and Deoksugung Palaces, Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), and the eco-friendly tourist spot of Nami Island  
  • Participate in a CIEE-organized overnight excursion designed to help you explore an area of our country in greater depth; previous excursions have taken students to Taean to explore the rich ecological tidal plain; Jeonju, for its culinary heritage and historical significance; the former capital of the Silla dynasty in the archaeologically rich area of Gyeongju; and Andong, one of the most architecturally and historically rich areas in Korea 
seoul student at internship in office

Academic Projects 

Students interested in one of the following Academic Projects must submit additional materials as part of their course selection:    

  • Internship: This optional part-time internship (in English) allows students the opportunity to have practical work experience in a company within a variety of industry sectors. In addition to the on-site business experience, students participating in an internship have a weekly classroom component, which provides academic support to their practical experience. 
  • Directed Independent Research: This research opportunity is for qualified students who have demonstrated academic rigor and curiosity toward a particular research topic. Independent research topics will be approved by CIEE Seoul and the home institution. To be accepted into this course, students must submit a structured proposal with a topic of exploration, significance of research topic on how it relates to South Korea, methodology, a literature review, and a schedule of research milestones.  

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Top 20 Korean Slang Words and Phrases You Must Know

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Are you worried about traveling to South Korea and feeling lost in conversation with locals, struggling to understand the Korean slang they're using? Don't worry; you're not alone. Just like... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

Semester In offers a flexible program for students to take full advantage of the program’s location in Seoul. Participants will take many of their courses from Hanyang University, choosing from hundreds of English-language courses in disciplines from STEM to Korean Studies to art and architecture, combined with courses offered directly by CIEE’s Seoul Center, including classes in Korean language and culture.  Hanyang is one of South Korea’s top universities and was founded as one of the first engineering schools in the country before developing into a leader in STEM and overall education.

Students can register in a mix of courses from both Hanyang University and CIEE, with a minimum of one course from Hanyang. Korean language proficiency is not required, but students with advanced language skills may also take Korean language courses from the host university.

The Korean academic year begins in March, with the first term running until mid-June. The fall semester begins in early September and concludes in mid-December.  

CIEE Seoul 
The CIEE Seoul Center is located in the historic downtown area of Jongno, within minutes of some of the city’s most famous cultural sites, such as Gyeongbok Palace, Gwanghwamun Square, and the Cheonggye Stream, hosting Korea-related courses and providing support services for students. 

Arizona State University: Enhance your international academic coursework with optional online courses that best align with your degree requirements and interests. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar, so you can study abroad with CIEE while continuing to meet all your academic goals. 

GPA

2.5

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.   

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

All Semester in Seoul students take 4-6 courses for a total of 12-18 semester credits (15 credits recommended), choosing from:  

  • CIEE courses   
  • A minimum of one course at Hanyang University (3-4 credits, in English) 
    • Students may choose to take university courses taught in Korean at the student’s discretion. Students should think carefully about their language proficiency before enrolling in Korean-language courses, as advanced proficiency is required.  
  • Online Course Options: substitute up to two ASU online courses

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-18 U.S. semester/18-27 quarter credits

Course Credit

  • CIEE Courses: 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits; 45-60 contact hours 
  • CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 seminar hours, 100-120 internship placement hours 
  • CIEE Directed Independent Research: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 contact hours, 100-120 research hours 
  • Hanyang University Courses: 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits; 45-64 contact hours 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

CIEE courses are designed to follow U.S academic culture and standards. The class environment typically features a combination of traditional lecture and discussion with co-curricular excursions and activities. Heavy emphasis is placed on student participation. Like in the U.S., students should expect to spend an average of two hours of preparation and study for each hour in CIEE classes.  

University classes in Korea tend to be more lecture based, but can also incorporate lab work, class discussions, group and individual presentations, and other activities.  

Students should expect homework assignments on a regular basis and to have rigorous midterm and final exams, and so may need to budget more study time outside of class than they regularly would at their home institutions. Regular attendance in class is expected, and students who miss 30% or more of classes will not be allowed a passing grade. STEM courses may assume very high mathematics competency compared to similarly positioned courses in the U.S. While most courses at Hanyang are open to all students, there are a smaller number of courses where Hanyang runs sections in English exclusively for international and exchange students. 

Both CIEE and Hanyang use learning management systems (LMS) to communicate with students and oversee courses. Students will need to regularly use both the CIEE Canvas system and Hanyang’s LMS system to stay up to date on coursework. Both CIEE and Hanyang classes usually meet 2-4 times a week, with class times running between 1-2 hours depending on the course and its schedule. 

ASU Courses: You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. Some are earning their degrees entirely online, while others, like you, are supplementing their education with an online course. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online. Most ASU online courses are asynchronous, meaning there are no set log-in times, but make sure to verify this before the add/drop deadline in case you want to make a change.

Class Format

Courses at CIEE Seoul are only for CIEE students, while those at Hanyang University include both local and international students, with some classes exclusively for international students. A typical weekly schedule spans Monday to Friday and encompasses a mix of CIEE and Hanyang University classes. These classes typically meet 2-4 times per week, with sessions lasting 1-3 hours depending on the course. Attendance is rigorously enforced for both classes and mandatory co-curricular excursions at CIEE. Additionally, CIEE's learning management system, Canvas, provides online support and augmentation for instruction.

Compared to US institutions, Korean teaching approaches lean toward lectures and may be less interactive than students are used to. STEM courses often demand a higher level of mathematical proficiency compared to their U.S. counterparts. Hanyang employs its own learning management system, also based on Canvas. Attendance holds significant weight, and students missing 30% or more of class meetings will fail the course.  

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5 weeks long in semesters and 6 weeks long in the summer, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end. You’ll need a standard PC or Mac desktop or laptop computer with a download speed higher than 25 Mbps, as well as access to email, productivity software like Microsoft Office and other applications needed to perform a variety of educational functions. Most course materials you will need are available online. Since you are working mostly or entirely asynchronously, you’re given deadlines for your assignments by your instructor or in your syllabus, but you can work at your own pace within these due dates. Most instructors suggest a recommended pace to optimize your learning, but you have the flexibility to complete your ASU courses while pursuing your studies at your CIEE location.

Grading

CIEE reports all final course grades to students’ home institutions using a U.S. letter grade equivalent scale of A-F. For CIEE-administered courses, students’ grades are based on attendance, class participation, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi. Hanyang University courses are graded using letter grade equivalent scale of A-F, and primary assessments usually include course, presentations, written examinations, with final exams typically worth 25-50% of the final grade for the course. 

ASU grading follows the same format and standards as ASU courses taught in-person. As a U.S. institution of higher education, the grading practices should be familiar to any CIEE student. ASU awards grades of "A+," "A," "A-," "B+," " B," "B-," "C+," "C," "D," or "E.” “Pass/fail” or “Audit” is not allowed for CIEE students. Please see the CIEE Academic Manual for Students for more information about your grades.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English and/or Korean

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Hanyang University

Not all courses are offered every semester, and some courses have prerequisites. Typically, the first course in a series will be offered in spring, with the next step in the course series offered in the fall, in line with the Korean school year which begins in March. To get an idea of what will be available in any given semester, consult the online catalog from the desired semester in the previous year. A final list of courses and syllabi for the term will be made available during the course enrollment process. To see a list of courses, please visit the following site and click first on the American flag to see the page in English, then on “course catalog”: https://portal.hanyang.ac.kr/sugang/sulg.do

The following list of courses constitutes a representative sample of English language course offerings from Hanyang University and is subject to change.  In some cases, prior background knowledge or prerequisites may be required to enroll in a class.

  • Principles of Architectural Representation
  • Design Fundamentals 1 & 2
  • Fundamentals of Computational Media Design
  • History of Korean Architecture
  • Introduction to Engineering Design
  • Software Design Programming
  • Discrete Mathematics
  • System programming
  • Numerical Analysis
  • Strategic Marketing & Case Studies
  • Behavioral Economics for Business Strategies
  • Consumer Behavior and Content Creation
  • Macroeconomics
  • Digital Marketing
  • Culture of Korea and Korea Wave
  • History of Korean Cinema
  • Theories of Mass Communications
  • Animal Ethics
  • Aesthetic Awareness in the Modern World
  • Civil Society and Social Movements
  • Ancient History of Korea

Students may choose to take university courses taught in Korean at the student’s discretion.  Students should think carefully about their language proficiency before enrolling in Korean-language courses, as advanced proficiency is required.  

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.

CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.

Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program! 

Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO

 

Program Options
Program Options

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

The work scene in Seoul is fast-paced, with high-tech offices, collaborative spaces, and a strong focus on teamwork and innovation. It thrives amidst the city's vibrant street culture and bustling urban life, offering a dynamic environment for professionals across various sectors. 

Business Management and Administration Internships

Business Management and Administration

Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

student interns standing in Spanish Parliament

Government and Public Administration

Gain insight into global policy-making, diplomatic relations, and governance practices in agencies, nonprofits, and firms.

A restaurant manager reviews information on a table with a chef

Hospitality and Tourism

Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Spring 2025 16 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $17,950
Program Fall 2025 16 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $17,950

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.


 

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $13,456**

Housing = $4,000***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $17,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $2,385

International Airfare = $1,250††

Local Transportation = $150

Personal expenses = $380†††

Other = $224††††

Total Costs = $4,389

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.

Select Plus Housing Fee = $2,500

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

††††Korean National Medical Insurance. All international students are legally required to enroll in Korea’s national health insurance program. All are enrolled automatically as soon as they apply for the required Residence Card. A bill is sent on a monthly basis (approximately $56 per month). The insurance covers up to 80% of inpatient treatments and medical services and 30-70% of outpatient treatments and services.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $13,456**

Housing = $4,000***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $17,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $2,385

International Airfare = $1,250††

Local Transportation = $150

Books & Supplies = $300

Personal expenses = $380

Other = $224†††

Total Costs = $4,689

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Korean National Medical Insurance. All international students are legally required to enroll in Korea’s national health insurance program. All are enrolled automatically as soon as they apply for the required Residence Card. A bill is sent on a monthly basis (approximately $56 per month). The insurance covers up to 80% of inpatient treatments and medical services and 30-70% of outpatient treatments and services.

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

3

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

4

Interested in an optional internship?

After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!

Request Info