Education Abroad

Students participating in a partner program enroll in courses with an international institution, transferring credit back to Michigan State. Typically, a semester in length—though there are some summer or full academic year options—these programs are a great 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, at varying levels depending on location, as well as through MSU when needed. Partner programs are divided into three 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.

Customized

Students pay a program fee, which includes tuition for the semester, as well as accommodations. For programs with home stays, this also includes most meals; cultural excursions may be included on a program-specific basis. Open to admitted business students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students will earn a set number of credits on this program, from a pre-determined course mix. For example, students may earn credit for two business core courses, MKT 310 and MGT 315, the upper level IAH requirement, and a language course (all levels welcome with no prior language proficiency required). Customized programs do not allow flexibility in courses, but allow students to plan exactly what credits they will earn while abroad.

Faculty-directed programs are short-term education abroad experiences with coursework taught by MSU faculty. These programs are offered during winter break, spring break, or during the summer session and typically offer 1-6 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. Specially designed programs allow faculty to teach content differently than on main campus, making the most of the location. Having smaller groups and faculty accompanying students ensures built-in support for students and a great opportunity to get to know the professors. Program directors may require pre- or post-departure meetings or coursework.

Service Learning

These programs combine learning goals and overseas community service with the objective of enhancing student growth, intercultural knowledge and learning, and the common good. These programs are generally located in countries which the IMF, World Bank, and other entities consider “developing,” and may include strenuous levels of physical activity.

International internship programs are one-credit, summer programs where students are placed in an overseas internship opportunity. International internships are unpaid experiences intended to enrich students’ understanding of the global business environment and provide career experience.

Education abroad programs offered by peer institutions that may be of interest to Broad students and have been specifically vetted and approved by the college. Credits earned on these programs will transfer back to MSU; students should meet with academic advisors prior to enrolling in such a program to understand how the credits fit within the student’s degree plan.

• Visit the Education Abroad Expo and Broad College Education Abroad Fair
• Search for programs online
• Attend Program-Specific Information Sessions
• Visit the Education Abroad Advising Center and schedule an advising appointment with a Broad advisor to discuss how studying abroad can fit into your academic plan

• Understand the various costs associated with individual programs
• Research financial aid options
• Research MSU scholarship options
  • Broad College Scholarships: All Broad scholarships are need-based, and to qualify, students must have a current FAFSA on file. Historically, every student identified by the university as having financial need has received a scholarship. Award amounts generally range from $1,000 for faculty-led programs, $1,500 to $3,500 for international internships, and up to $5,000 for semester-long programs. 
  • Scholarships for Research Abroad
• Scholarships for passport fees: The Broad College now offers scholarships for students who are applying for their first U.S. passport (no renewals, please). To be eligible for this scholarship, students must apply for their passport individually and should submit receipts to sscott@broad.msu.edu. Students will then receive a scholarship in the amount of the fees to their MSU student account.
  • Eligible fees include:
    • Passport photo fee
    • Passport application fee
    • Passport acceptance fee
    • The MSU Libraries offer complete passport services.

• Complete the necessary program application
• Complete an interview with a Broad Education Abroad Coordinator (select semester-long programs only) or faculty program director (select faculty-directed program only)

If necessary, complete the Course Approval Form (CAF) and submit it to the Office of Education Abroad and the Broad College Education Abroad Coordinators before leaving for the program (select semester-long programs only)

• Obtain a valid passport and check visa requirements
• 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.

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.

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

The MSU International Business Organization (IBO) 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.