Derry, North Ireland

FAQ about Derry

Where is BCA Derry study center located?

BCA Derry is located on the Magee Campus of the University of Ulster, the largest university system in Northern Ireland with more than 23,000 students on four campuses. Magee’s campus in Derry is modest in size and situated on a spectacular bluff overlooking the Foyle River.

What can I study at BCA Derry?

Many BCA Derry students choose to focus on peace and justice studies as well as history, political science, theater and design. You can find peace and conflict/justice courses (called modules in the UK) in the politics, cultural studies, history, law and social policy and administration departments. You are also free to select modules from most of the other university departments. Please see the full list of available modules at prospectus.ulster.ac.uk/modules/.

Where will I live?

All BCA Derry students live in Duncreggan Student Village, a large student residence complex located close to the Magee campus. Most BCA students live in an apartment with four other students, each with a single room and shared bathroom. There is a kitchen and dining room in each apartment and a central laundry room for each building.

Will my school accept credit from BCA Derry?

It is important that students check with their university registration and records office to determine whether BCA credits will be accepted. Each university has its own policy for transferring credits, and it is the students’ responsibility to follow their home university rules and regulations. Upon completion, BCA sends transcripts from University of Ulster and BCA course reports to students and their home universities. If the home university or college requires a transcript from a U.S. school, BCA provides a transcript from Elizabethtown College, which is BCA’s school of record.

Will my financial aid transfer?

Federal aid is transferable; some state aid is transferable. Aid from an individual schools is transferred at the school’s discretion. Students should consult their financial aid advisor for further information and advice.

Why study with BCA?

BCA is one of the nation's first independent organizations committed to promoting international understanding and academic excellence through college study abroad programs for U.S. students and adult seminars for faculty and administrators. Rooted in the values of peace and justice, BCA promotes international understanding, awareness of global citizenship and academic scholarship through educational exchange. Among the special qualities of BCA's programs are: unique opportunities to study peace and justice issues in places where conflict has profoundly affected culture, history and daily life; opportunity for cultural immersion; and tremendous academic and administrative support.

What are the application deadlines?

BCA encourages interested students to apply as soon as possible to get the process in motion. Applications for the spring semester are due by November 1 (October 15 to be guaranteed a place on the group flight arranged by BCA). Fall semester applications are due by May 15 (April 15 to be guaranteed a place on the group flight arranged by BCA). Students are notified of their acceptance within three weeks of submitting a complete application.

Do I need a visa to study in Northern Ireland?

No. You do not need a visa to go to Northern Ireland if you will stay there less than six months and you do not plan to work while abroad. If you plan to stay longer than six months and/or if you plan to work, you must apply for UK Entry Clearance. You may apply online for UK Entry Clearance at www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk.

Can I study abroad as a freshman?

No. To study abroad with BCA Derry a student must have at least one year of undergraduate study. However, BCA encourages students to start planning in their freshman year and investigate which program is a good fit for their individual needs.

I’m worried my GPA may not be good enough. Should I still apply?

Yes. BCA does employ minimum GPA standards for each study center. The required GPA varies by program and is an important tool in evaluating a student’s application, however it is not the only consideration. BCA also takes into account the student’s personal statement and their letters of recommendation. BCA encourages students to apply even if they do not quite meet the GPA standards.

How many courses will I take?

Most undergraduate students take three modules that are each worth 20 UK credit points, although you can take four courses with permission from the university. Also as a BCA student in Derry, you will take a required course, The Global Conversation. This 3-credit, semester-long course has both online and face-to-face components that will encourage you to get involved in the local community as well as share your experiences with other students studying around the world.

E-mail us with your questions

inquiry@bcaabroad.org

Questions? Please call:

1-866-222-6188