Study Abroad Drug Requirements
While personal responsibility must always be the standard for study abroad students, colleges and universities with study abroad programs should take proactive steps to promote an environment free from alcohol and illicit drug abuse. As facilitators for students transitioning from adolescence into adulthood, all schools have both an educational and ethical obligation to assist their student participants make intelligent choices regarding alcohol and illicit drug consumption.
Well-articulated policies on alcohol and illicit drug use are an essential first step toward providing students with a positive study abroad experience. Also important are clearly outlining any consequences for violating those policies — with families, schools or employers potentially held liable in cases of drug or alcohol abuse by foreign students — while encouraging all study abroad program staff members to participate in drug-free events while acting as positive role models for their students.
Preparing students for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in their destination country and discussing safer sex practices are also key components of study abroad programs. Students should follow local social norms regarding public displays of affection and dating practices as well as seek medical care immediately if signs and symptoms of any STD or STI arise, and report instances of sexual harassment or assault directly to local authorities, emergency contacts and the study abroad program.
Many countries with lower minimum drinking ages and a more permissive approach to public consumption of alcohol may contribute to an increase in alcohol intake by study abroad students. Illicit drug use is also prevalent across many of these nations and can have devastating physical and mental health implications, not to mention potential criminalization or imprisonment.
Keck Graduate Institute and City of Hope’s Master of Science in Regulatory Affairs degree is designed to give students practical, translational and applied experience in moving pharmaceutical, biological and biotechnological products from concept development through FDA regulatory processes to post-marketing surveillance. The two-year program involves coursework at KGI as well as rotations in COH laboratories. Graduates may pursue careers in quality assurance at pharmaceutical or medical device companies as well as government regulatory bodies dedicated to product regulation. Curriculum includes: