University of Virginia FAQ

What is the Honor Code and how does it affect the academic life on board the ship?

Founded in 1842, the Honor System is one of the University of Virginia's most cherished institutions which operates under the principle of student self-governance. The Honor System seeks to create and strengthen a University-wide "Community of Trust." Semester at Sea students are considered guests of the University of Virginia and are therefore expected to uphold the Honor Code. Students found in violation of the Honor Code will be dismissed from the program and forfeit academic credit.

What is the role of U.Va. as the academic sponsor?

As the academic sponsor of Semester at Sea, the University brings a wealth of academic resources, and a demonstrated commitment to international education. Semester at Sea's shipboard campus is, in many ways, a microcosm of the Jeffersonian model. Like the Charlottesville campus, it is a venue where "shared learning infuses daily life" with students, faculty and staff able to interact both in the classroom and on "grounds." Grounds will be extended to countries around the world on Semester at Sea through this dynamic collaboration.

What kind of institution is the University of Virginia?

The University of Virginia is a world-class institution, consistently ranked among the top two public universities in the country, and among the top twenty-five of all U.S. universities.

Which academic institutions have been past sponsors?

Chapman University, the University of Colorado at Boulder, and the University of Pittsburgh have all been proud academic sponsors of Semester at Sea over our 45-year history. The Summer 2006 voyage was the first held in conjunction with the University of Virginia.