Augusta University cancels Italy Study Abroad programs due to COVID-19 concerns

News reports on the public health risk associated with coronavirus (COVID-19) have generated questions from members of the campus community about how the university is responding to COVID-19 both domestically and internationally. It is important to remember there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Augusta at this time.

While the University System of Georgia (USG) will make overall recommendations and decisions regarding summer programs and other travel at a later date, Augusta University and the USG have made the decision to cancel the Italy Business Study Abroad program and the Italy Film and Art Study Abroad program for May 2020.

The health, safety and well-being of students and employees are top priorities and necessitated this action, which follows recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Georgia Department of Public Health (GPH). 

Students involved in the trip are encouraged to speak with their academic advisor and consider alternative plans for this summer. Although Study Abroad programs have closed for the summer, the office may be able to open a space for students with notification by March 13; payments and fundraising may be transferred to another program. For questions regarding switching trips or more information, email Judy Kyrkos.
 
Below are programs with possible spots available:
England & Scotland 
Deep South
Tanzania
United Kingdom
Asheville, NC
Salamanca, Spain
 
Additionally, statewide programs through USG Goes Global still have remaining spots. More information can be found here.
 
For additional information, visit the Study Abroad website. 
 
Read the latest news and hear from our experts about the emerging public health concern of COVID-19 on our dedicated resource page. Here you will find guidance on how to protect yourself, news from around the community and links to resources from the CDC and those managing the situation here in the U.S.