Broaden Your Horizons: A Guide to University of Michigan Study Abroad Programs

The University of Michigan (U-M) recognizes the transformative power of international experiences. With a long history of international engagement, U-M proudly stands as a national leader in providing students with opportunities to study, volunteer, work, and conduct research in over 100 countries around the world. Every year, thousands of U-M students embark on these journeys, broadening their perspectives and gaining invaluable global skills.

Why Study Abroad?

Studying abroad is more than just visiting a new place; it's an "exhilarating challenge of academic and cultural immersion, plus a whole lot of fun." It's an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, challenge your assumptions, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. As Erica G. aptly puts it, "Change your perspective with Study Abroad!" By immersing yourself in a new culture, you become globally literate while earning credit towards your degree.

Here are some compelling reasons to consider studying abroad:

Personal Growth: As Alankrita Rani from the College of Pharmacy notes, "Navigating through different countries and cultures has changed me in ways I will always be grateful for. We learn, we grow, and we meet better versions of ourselves when we move."
Expanded Worldview: Michael Mancuso from the College of Engineering emphasizes the life-changing impact of experiencing a different way of life: "Being able to experience a different way of life and culture gave me a broader perspective of what my life could be."
Enhanced Skills: Niko Economos from the College of Engineering shares how their time in Madrid led to significant improvements in Spanish skills and increased confidence in traveling alone.
Cultural Immersion: Study abroad programs offer built-in cultural activities and excursions, allowing you to explore your new city and follow in the footsteps of past U-M alumni.
Career Advancement: In today's globalized world, employers highly value candidates with international experience. Studying abroad demonstrates adaptability, cross-cultural communication skills, and a global mindset.

Navigating U-M's Study Abroad Opportunities

The University of Michigan offers a decentralized structure for education abroad, with many U-M Ann Arbor units, as well as U-M campuses, offering education abroad programs and advising for students seeking international experiences.

M-Compass: Your Starting Point

M-Compass, the University of Michigan’s campus-wide system for education abroad opportunities, is your go-to resource for exploring available programs. This comprehensive platform allows you to search for programs based on your academic interests, desired location, and program length.

College and School-Specific Programs

Many U-M colleges and schools have their own education abroad offices or individual advisors to guide undergraduate students interested in studying abroad. These include:

College of Literature, Science, and the Arts
Ross School of Business
College of Engineering
School of Information (UMSI)

UMSI Study Abroad Programs

The University of Michigan School of Information (UMSI) offers a variety of study abroad programs specifically designed for Bachelor of Science in Information (BSI) and Master of Science in Information (MSI) students. These programs provide opportunities to develop and apply your information expertise in a global context.

Semester-Long Programs for BSI Students

UMSI hosts eight study abroad programs in partnership with universities around the world. Each partner university offers information courses taught in English that are directly applicable to the BSI degree.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Study at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, focusing on themes like urban interaction design, virtual reality, or big data. Collaborate with local organizations to solve real challenges in one of Europe’s most creative, design-driven cities.
Barcelona, Spain: Explore the intersection of business, entrepreneurship, and data analytics at ESADE, a highly-ranked private international school. Enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean city known for its beautiful coast and distinctive architecture.
Dublin, Ireland: Study data science, machine learning, and computing innovation at Dublin City University, in the heart of Dublin, also known as the Silicon Valley of Europe.
Madrid, Spain: Immerse yourself in innovation and entrepreneurship at IE University, located in the heart of Madrid’s financial district.
Prague, Czech Republic: Connect with students from across Europe while taking courses on data-driven policy analysis or global cybersecurity at the Prague University of Economics and Business (VŠE).
Sydney, Australia: Balance your studies with sun and surf at the University of New South Wales, known for nurturing startup founders. Take courses in user experience design, business analytics, and virtual reality documentaries.
Thessaloniki, Greece: Explore the latest in data and technology while living in a city with a 2,300-year history. Study at Anatolia American University, which hosts Greek students and international students from more than 30 countries.
Uppsala, Sweden: Take courses on social robotics or advanced interaction design at Uppsala University, founded in 1477.

Non-UMSI Programs for BSI Students

BSI students can also study abroad through programs sponsored by other University of Michigan (U-M) units, including the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts; the Ross School of Business; and the College of Engineering (found in M-Compass) or through non-UM programs.

Short-Term Programs for BSI Students

UMSI offers multiweek study abroad programs each summer, allowing students to take one or two courses in another country after UMSI’s academic year has concluded.

Read also: History of the Block 'M'

Semester-Long Programs for MSI Students

UMSI partners with universities around the world offering information courses taught in English that are directly applicable to the MSI degree.

Uppsala, Sweden (Fall or winter term): Choose from more than 50 approved courses - from machine learning to data ethics - at Uppsala University, founded in 1477.
Tsukuba, Japan (Fall term; summer for research only): Pursue research or take courses - from data visualization to the cultural history of libraries and media - at the University of Tsukuba, a STEM-focused research university.

Student-Initiated International Activities

Are you interested in pursuing an international internship, research, or project? The University of Michigan supports students who want to create their own international experiences.

Funding Your Study Abroad Experience

Financial support for your education abroad experience is available from a variety of sources.

Public University Grant

As a University of Michigan student, you automatically receive a $1,000-$2,000 Public University Grant for a semester IES Abroad program.

Study Abroad Financial Aid Overview

U-M has created a Study Abroad Financial Aid Overview with information on the different pools of funding available to help you pay for your study abroad program.

Read also: Legacy of Fordham University

UMSI Study Abroad Scholarship

UMSI offers a Study Abroad Scholarship for undergraduates who qualify.

Important Considerations

Social Identity and International Travel

As you consider international travel, it’s important to recognize that different social identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways. Be sure to research the cultural norms and potential challenges in your chosen destination.

International Center Resources

The International Center serves the international population, facilitates intercultural and international education, and fosters a global campus community at the University of Michigan and beyond. They offer resources and support to help you prepare for your study abroad experience.

Getting Started

Explore Opportunities: Start exploring opportunities with M-Compass, the University of Michigan’s campus-wide system for education abroad opportunities.
Meet with an Advisor: Schedule an academic advising appointment with your college or school's study abroad advisor to ensure that study abroad is in alignment with your intended graduation plans. For BSI students, schedule an appointment on the BSI Advising Site. For MSI students, schedule an appointment on the MSI Advising Site.
Attend Information Sessions: Many programs offer information sessions where you can learn more about the program and ask questions.
Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships: Research and apply for available financial aid and scholarships to help fund your study abroad experience.
Prepare for Your Trip: Once you have been accepted into a program, take the time to prepare for your trip by researching the culture, learning some basic phrases in the local language, and packing appropriately.

Real Stories, Real Impact

The experiences of U-M students who have studied abroad speak volumes about the transformative power of these programs. Their stories highlight the personal growth, expanded worldview, and enhanced skills that can be gained through international experiences.

Don't just take our word for it. As Niko Economos says, "I would highly recommend taking the leap into discomfort that is studying abroad! What's on the other side is well worth it."

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