It’s Never Too Late to Study Abroad

Reimagining Study Abroad

Elective is a study abroad program created specifically for adults. We offer immersive small-group courses led by local experts on a wide range of subjects, in the places that bring those subjects to life.

These courses give lifelong learners the chance to engage in meaningful travel and intellectual exploration, with the flexibility to pursue their interests on their own terms.

Go Beyond Sightseeing

Choose an Elective in a place you’ve never been, or one you’ve visited many times.

Study a subject you already know about, or one that’s entirely new to you.

Wherever you go, explore topics you’re passionate about while connecting with like-minded peers. Learning in context deepens your understanding, broadens your perspective, and ties it to the wider world.

Every destination becomes the prism through which you learn.

Learn More About Our Approach

Now Open for Enrollment

Below are Elective's upcoming courses. New destinations and dates are added throughout the year — join our mailing list to hear about them first.

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Browse Full Course Catalog

Traveling with your own group?

Any Elective course can be provided as a private program on your group’s dates — same faculty, same structure, tailored to you.
Plan a private Elective

Interested in partnering with Elective?

Elective partners with museums, alumni associations, and like-minded organizations to bring study abroad to their communities.
Learn about partnerships

The Elements of Elective

Deep Learning in Context

Through Field Seminars, Daily Discussions, and Self-Guided Study, courses are designed to immerse you in a single topic. The places you visit and the people you meet become integral to your learning, offering a depth of understanding that goes far beyond a classroom.

A Collegial Cohort

Engage with a small group of like-minded peers who share your curiosity and passion for the subject matter. Discussions create a collaborative atmosphere that enhances learning and fosters meaningful connections.

Expert Faculty With Local Insight

Learn from instructors who are not only experts in their field but deeply connected to the community. They bring subject matter to life by providing context that is unique to the place you’re studying, blending academic knowledge with local perspectives.

Thoughtful Comfort

Enjoy four-star accommodations and a seamless travel experience, carefully planned so you can focus on learning and discovery. Extracurricular activities and plenty of free time allow you to connect with the destination on your own terms and at your own pace.

Learn more about the Program

Sample Elective Schedule

Sunday

Arrivals

Check into hotel

Meet your cohort for drinks and introductions

Welcome Dinner

Monday

9:00 Daily Discussion

10:00 Field Seminar

Free / Self-Guided Study