May Term Travel

Jump to May Term courses

What is May Term?

At Redlands, May Term is a unique, intensive learning session that takes place right after the regular spring semester, usually running for about four weeks in May. It encourages students to broaden their horizons, take intellectual risks, and engage in global or community-based experiences that enhance their academic journey. Recent international courses have taken students to Austria, Palau, Panama, and Spain, while domestic offerings have included programs in Washington, D.C.

Why should you take a May Term?

Faculty lead short-term, credit-earning courses that emphasize experiential learning, creativity, and exploration. May Term is encouraged because of it's:

• Unique courses: May Term offerings are often more creative, experimental, or specialized than those during the main semesters. Many are interdisciplinary in design and allow faculty to explore niche topics, hands-on projects, and innovative course content. A number of courses also fulfill Liberal Arts Inquiry requirements.
• Study away opportunities: A hallmark of May Term is its travel-based learning. Many courses are taught abroad or within the U.S., either fully off-campus or through a split model (part on-campus, followed by at least 10–14 days away). These immersive opportunities let students engage deeply with new cultures, communities, and environments.
• Flexible credit: May Term courses typically offer 3 credits (some may require prerequisites), giving students the flexibility to explore new subjects and interests without the pressure of a full semester load.
• Experiential learning: With class sizes averaging 14–15 students, May Term fosters close interaction with faculty and peers. Courses emphasize learning outside the traditional classroom, whether in another country, state, or unique field setting.

Redlands encourages students to study away

May Term Travel Grants & Scholarships

Any undergraduate students participating in May Term travel courses, who have not previously studied off-campus in a U of R approved Semester-Long program or May Term travel course, and demonstrate financial need are eligible to apply for a May Term travel grant. Grant recipients will have the award amount automatically deducted from their course fee on their student account. Students are eligible for one May Term Travel grant during their time as an undergraduate student at Redlands.