Risk Management Resources

We know that our greatest responsibility is to develop and operate programs with the health and safety of our student participants at the forefront of all our decisions. Additionally, we recognize that off-campus travel and study abroad involves a certain amount of inherent risk. Listed below are a variety of risk management resources to aid faculty leaders, students and families.

Emergency Response Manual

As a study abroad/away faculty leader, you play a central role in safeguarding the well-being of your student participants. To do so effectively, you should thoroughly review the information covered in the Emergency Response Manual.

This handbook will provide you with practical tools and guidance on how to effectively cope with different scenarios and emergencies. Moreover, this handbook will serve as a preventative guide to educate you about precautions for avoiding certain minor emergencies.

Careful Choice of Program Locations and Overseas Partners

We are very careful in selecting destinations for our programs. Potential new locations and partners are thoroughly evaluated to ensure they meet the university's needs for academic excellence, on-site services and risk management. Once a program location has been developed and is in operation, we continuously monitor the situation in that country through our overseas partners, U.S. Department of State intelligence reports, and the many professional organizations to which we belong.

Student Preparation

We take extra measures to ensure that participants are fully prepared for any health and safety issues that may arise while abroad. Pre-departure, applicants are asked to disclose if there is anything in their medical history that could impact their time abroad. In collaboration with the Whitworth Health Center, we offer a comprehensive travel clinic and safety presentation to all participants on Whitworth faculty-led programs. Students are also required to participate in a pre-departure orientation, and for exchange/partner programs, an additional on-site orientation given by our exchange/partner university. Students become familiar with local laws, customs, emergency services, and what to do if an emergency or other health concern arises while abroad. Included in all programs is enrollment in our comprehensive medical and accident insurance provided by AIG World Risk.