University of the Pacific students will have the opportunity to spend one academic year studying abroad at the world-renowned London School of Economics and Political Science through a new partnership.

The school ranks No. 6 globally in the social sciences, behind only Harvard University, Oxford University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Cambridge University.

Pacific faculty and deans helped shape the agreement, ensuring strong academic alignment and integration with degree pathways, and grounding the partnership in quality and student success.

“This partnership grew out of Pacific’s strategic focus on expanding high-impact global opportunities for our students while building relationships with world-class academic institutions,” said Niraj Chaudhary, dean of University Libraries and Pacific Global.

The three-year agreement allows qualified undergraduate students with a 3.5 GPA to study in London for a full academic year.  Applicants will participate in a selective review process conducted by the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a select number of students will be chosen.

During the program, students can take courses in a variety of fields, including accounting, business management, finance, communication and media studies, data sciences, gender and sexuality studies, geography, history, international/global studies, law, philosophy, political science and government.

Based in the heart of London, the school was ranked No. 1 in the United Kingdom for 2025 and 2026 by the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide.

“What excites me most about this partnership with the London School of Economics is what it makes possible for our students,” Chaudhary said. “Studying there will challenge them intellectually, immerse them in a global city and build confidence, independence, and perspective. Experiences like this are transformative, helping students see themselves as contributors on a global stage.”

The partnership was developed through close collaboration with Pacific faculty and deans, particularly from the political science and economics departments, whose academic leadership helped shape the agreement. They will serve as subject matter experts and key liaisons, supporting students and strengthening the academic connection with the London School of Economics.

“Our new collaboration with the London School of Economics represents a thrilling opportunity for our students to study at one of the most highly regarded world-class institutions in a vibrant, global city.  For our students who are eager to make their mark on the world, I would enthusiastically endorse this fantastic study abroad option,” Dari Tran, professor of political science, said.

Expanding study abroad opportunities for students has been an increasing focus for Pacific.

“Over the past year, we have made study abroad a strategic priority by restructuring the office, hiring a director for the first time and implementing new systems to make the process more accessible and student friendly. This work has led to the development of high-impact global partnerships with institutions around the world,” Chaudhary said. 

Deadline for students to apply is February 10.