International Non-Degree Training Program

Diverse cultural experiences can inspire creativity and drive innovation. The International Non-Degree Training Program creates cross-cultural courses and academic training exposure, giving students the opportunity to develop professional skills, leadership abilities and cultural awareness in the areas of hospitality, tourism, retailing and sport management, while receiving credit from their home institutions.

Program Summary

The International Non-Degree Training Program gives international students the opportunity to pursue a full-time course of study at the University of South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management followed by an internship in the United States. Students gain academic enrichment and career experience with industry and education professionals in a leading tourism region of the United States.

International students will enjoy taking college courses, improving their English language skills, experiencing a new culture, and gaining U.S. work experience.

Program Type	J-1 University & College Student Non-Degree Program
Language of Instruction	English
Minimum GPA	2.5 on a 4.0 scale
Class Standing	Undergraduate sophomore, junior or senior
Language Experience	Required TOEFL score of 77 IBT (550 PBT), a score of 6.5 on the IELTS, or 53 on the PTE
Areas of Study	Hospitality, Tourism, Events, Retailing
Credit Hours	Minimum of 12, maximum of 15
Program Length	6 months to 1 year
Academic Training Experience	Paid internship

Course Work

Culture and Traditions in the Service Industry
Customer Service Preparation
Intensive English Language Preparation
Professional Development Seminar
HRSM Internship Class

Internship Details and Benefits

Students will have a non-degree student status and enroll in a minimum of 12 academic credits
Intern with top tourism and hospitality partners
Paid internships
Career-related experiential learning and networking in the U.S.
Cultural immersion and improved English skills

The Sea Pines Resort and Carowinds Amusement Park are two partners that provide internships for USC international students.

Carowinds Amusement Park

Become a moment maker by interning at Carowinds Amusement Park. It is home to Fury 325 — the tallest, fastest, and longest giga coaster in North America — as well as an exciting water park. Learn how the magic happens through training at this high-quality regional theme park. Opportunities to intern in the hospitality, retail and entertainment industry are available for students.

Sea Pines Resort

The Sea Pines Resort offers students insight and exposure to the behind-the-scenes operations of one of the “world’s best” family beach hotels and golf resorts. Located on beautiful Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, opportunities to intern in the hospitality, retail and sport management areas are available.