EAST LANSING, Mich. —Record breaking numbers of MSU business students studied abroad in 2007-08 academic year.

582 students from The Eli Broad College of Business studied abroad during the 2007-08 academic year, an increase of more than four percent from the previous year. They participated in 39 programs on six continents around the globe.

“At MSU we believe very strongly that these international opportunities are an essential part of educating our students for the global economy,” said Tomas Hult, Associate Dean for Global Initiatives at the Broad School. “Our students realize the changing nature of business and they are excited about gaining new perspectives on business and other cultures.”
Almost 37 percent of the 2007-08 graduates of the Broad School studied abroad, five percent higher than the University average.

In addition, MSU ranks ninth in the nation among public universities in total international student enrollment with 4,244 students, according to data from the 2007-08 academic year. Among all universities, MSU ranked 15th in international student enrollment.

“MSU has long been a globally engaged university and a leader in enhancing the educational experience for our students through study abroad programs and interaction with international students on campus,” said MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon. 
 
The study abroad program, through the Department of International Studies and Programs, received additional recognition from U.S. News & World Report, when it earned a spot among a select number of universities on the 2009 “programs to look for” list. The listing placed MSU alongside Columbia and Georgetown universities, which were also noted for outstanding academic programs that are linked to student success.

Study Abroad in the Broad School helps students stand out from their peers by offering a diverse selection of courses and unique experiences. It is also a key component in the international business specialization offered to undergraduates at the Broad School.

Written by Gordon Shetler, Graduate Assistant at Global Initiatives.