Education Abroad

Semester programs are the “gold standard” in education abroad. Students participating in semester-long programs enroll in courses at an international institution, transferring credit back to Michigan State. These programs offer the best opportunity for students to fully immerse themselves in the culture of their host country. Student support services in-country are provided by the host institution, as well as through MSU when needed. Access the guidelines for semester-long programs here.

Semester-long programs are divided into two categories:

Exchange

Students pay MSU tuition and fees just like a semester on campus in East Lansing. Because of this cost structure, exchanges are often ideal for students paying in-state tuition. Course equivalencies should be discussed with an advisor to ensure the validity of credits.

Direct Enroll

Students pay the tuition and fee rates of the host university, typically through a program fee from MSU. This model is often a great financial option for out-of-state and international students. Course equivalencies should be discussed with an advisor to ensure the validity of credits.

Whether exchange or direct enroll, the majority of semester programs are less expensive than a semester on campus!

International internship programs are another excellent immersion option. These one-credit, summer programs see students placed in a full-time, business-focused internship in an international location. Students should note that international internships are unpaid experiences intended to enrich students’ understanding of the global business environment and provide career experience.

Partner programs offer excellent international exposure during summer and winter break. Programs range in duration from ten days to six weeks. These programs offer the opportunity for students to enroll in courses at other leading business schools around the world, taking classes from the host institution’s faculty alongside students from across the globe.

Faculty-directed programs are short-term education abroad experiences with coursework taught by MSU faculty. These are excellent international exposure opportunities, particularly for students whose personal or academic circumstances may not allow for a longer international program. Offered during winter break, spring break, or during the summer session, they typically offer 3-6 credits. Faculty-directed courses use the setting overseas to complement and enrich the academic content, often building in excursions to popular sites in their host countries. Program directors may require pre- or post-departure meetings or coursework.

Courses taught by MSU faculty (2025-26)

Sanjay Gupta | Accounting and Finance Topics in Morocco

Stacy Clause | Business and Culture in Japan

Jorge Pena Marin | Business and Culture in Spain

Beth Hammond | Entrepreneurship and Social Responsibility in Cambodia

Tom Rimer | Global Business in Dubai

Tom Rimer | Business and Culture in Brazil

Marla McGraw | History of Trade Wars in Europe

Shannon Brecheisen | International Business in Europe (Paris)

Justin Jagger | Global Supply Chains and the Panama Canal

Rich Spreng | International Business Studies in Europe

Tom Humphreys | London Market Immersion: Insurance and Risk Management

Joe Courtade | South Africa: Global Business in the Rainbow Nation

Don Deveaux | Summer Business Studies at University of Sydney

Lizzie Fisher | Wines, Mines, and Export Strategies in Chile

• Search for programs online.
• Schedule an advising appointment with a Broad advisor to discuss how studying abroad can fit into your academic plan.
• Visit the Broad College Education Abroad and Global Engagement Fair (September) and the MSU Global Expo (October).
• Attend information sessions (or directly contact the individual listed on the program information page).
• Students may also work with the MSU Office for Education Abroad. MSU offers more than 260 programs in more than 60 countries on all continents.

• Complete the necessary program application in ViaTRM (MSU’s central application sites for all programs)
• Complete an interview if notified this is a requirement for your program

• Pay the commitment deposit
• For semester programs, complete the Course Approval Form (CAF).

• Obtain a valid passport and check visa requirements – remember that the Broad College offers scholarships that cover the cost of applying for a U.S. passport!
• Complete Pre-Departure Orientation

The international business minor is a great academic opportunity for students who plan careers with an international orientation and who wish to add breadth to their major. The minor is designed for students who desire to increase their understanding of various regions of the world and the global marketplace.

There are more than 900 registered student organizations at MSU, many of which include an international focus.

The International Business Student Organization (IBSO) promotes a greater understanding of international business and fosters personal and professional development through networking events, speaker presentations and corporate trips. The student organization is committed to its members’ needs in order to be key innovators, core contributors and successful leaders in today’s global community.

The Spartan Global Development Fund (SGDF) is a student-run initiative working to expand awareness and support for microfinance while building lasting partnerships in the quest for permanent solutions to global poverty. SGDF helps promote the causes of sustainability and entrepreneurship by providing interest-free micro loans to small businesses in less-developed areas of the world.

The Broad International Student Council (BISC) promotes an inclusive community for international students in the Eli Broad College of Business.

The Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) provides support to Michigan State University’s international students, scholars and families. There are a number of ways to get involved with OISS, including volunteer opportunities.