Your liberal arts education goes beyond the classroom, lab, or studio

If you want, your coursework can take you abroad, into the local community, and expose you to life-changing experiences. 

Browse some of the opportunities available in the course catalog for experiential learning in your major, in addition to opportunities featured here that will help you stand out among your peers in the job market, and broaden your understanding of the world.

Undergraduate Research

The University of Iowa is one of the top public research universities in the country. Our professors aren't just teaching about their fields—they're making the latest discoveries. You can work closely with faculty on research and present your findings. 

Internships

Internships and externships complement your academic work with real-world professional experience that will help you stand out on your resumé when you enter the job market or apply to graduate school.

Study Abroad

Spending a semester studying in another country can be an incredible, fulfilling experience that will help you understand how our global society works—benefiting you personally and professionally. 

CLAS students regularly take their learning beyond the classroom

Edge of Space Students experimenting with devices

Two CLAS departments collaborate for third Edge of Space Academy

Monday, October 7, 2024
The most recent cohort got hands-on with space-based instrumentation, conducting research, and working as a team as part of the immersive program led by the Department of Physics and Astronomy and Department of Geographical and Sustainability Sciences.
Students in Europe posing with the Tigerhawk

CLAS students explore connection between chemistry and sustainability while in Europe

Monday, September 16, 2024
In Germany, CLAS Students the important role of chemical processes in implementing sustainable practices. Students were able to see this in real life at some of Europe’s most sustainable cities.
Bikes line a wall with signs promoting bike lines in the City of Dubuque

CLAS journalism students gain hands-on experience reporting on sustainability efforts in Dubuque

Sunday, September 8, 2024
The School of Journalism and Mass Communication collaborated with the Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities on three capstone classes where students produced news content, snapped photos, and created plans to help the city of Dubuque meet its sustainability goals.
Mason Richman works at a golf event for Special Olympics at Finkbine Golf Course in Iowa City as part of the sport and recreation management practicum The Business of Golf.

CLAS students tee up a career in golf

Wednesday, September 4, 2024
Office of Strategic Communication
A unique practicum gives University of Iowa students behind-the-scenes access to golf venues and events, including a tournament on the PGA Tour.
Photos of six journalism students at their internships

CLAS journalism students pursue summer internships around the country, from D.C. to Seattle

Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Students in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication had valuable opportunities – from newsrooms to Capitol Hill to HGTV – where they gained unique, real-world experience.
A group of students post behind their 3D design work

CLAS 3D design students showcase work at leading contemporary furniture conference in New York City

Wednesday, August 21, 2024
For the 11th year in a row, students in the School of Art, Art History, and Design exhibited their work in the Big Apple while networking with industry professionals.
Thomas Hart

HHP undergraduate student wins multiple awards for research presented at the American Physiological Summit

Monday, July 22, 2024
Thomas Hart, a fourth-year student in the Department of Health and Human Physiology, was recognized for his presentation of research on the correlation between anxiety severity and increased blood pressure.
Students standing in front of NBC news studio

Hawks in D.C.: CLAS students explore the ever-changing field of media in our nation’s capital

Monday, June 3, 2024
On a three-day trip, 11 School of Journalism and Mass Communication students traveled to Washington D.C. with faculty member Brett Johnson to learn more about journalism and the First Amendment.
This is a picture of Steve McGuire

CLAS art and art history professor and six students embark on journey across Iowa on handmade bikes

Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Department of Art and Art History Professor Steve McGuire and six students will complete a 500-mile trip across the state on bicycles they made in his course.
Read more experiential learning stories