Cooperative Center For Study Abroad

Mission

The Cooperative Center for Study Abroad creates transformative global learning opportunities for students, faculty, and life-long learners.

Vision

The Cooperative Center for Study Abroad envisions universities where international learning is a standard part of higher education and all faculty and students can participate in meaningful study abroad experiences to foster professional and personal growth.

Priorities

We support faculty with guidance, mentorship, and resources; expand access to high-quality study abroad opportunities for students, including first-generation and other traditionally underrepresented students; and help our member institutions create sustainable pathways for growth while fostering networks that extend impact into their communities.

Students

• Expand access to high-quality, affordable study abroad experiences, especially for traditionally underrepresented students.
• Create opportunities for students in fields that seldom offer study abroad options to connect their coursework with hands-on, real-world experiences.
• Develop critical 21st-century skills, such as adaptability, collaboration, and problem-solving.
• Encourage independence, curiosity, and lifelong learning.

Faculty

• Provide professional development, mentorship, and collaborative international opportunities.
• Support faculty who are new to teaching abroad or have limited access to international experiences, helping them develop skills and lead effective programs.
• Enable faculty to strengthen student engagement and learning outcomes through high-impact practices.
• Cultivate a community of educators committed to international education.

 Member Institutions

• Reshape how colleges and universities engage with international education by supporting institutions with limited staff, resources, time, or expertise.
• Bridge the gap between institutional goals and capacity by providing the structure, collaboration, and support needed to expand global learning opportunities.
• Create sustainable pathways for faculty and students to expand their perspectives and enrich their academic and professional development.

 Communities

• Foster networks of faculty, students, and professionals that extend institutional impact into the communities they serve. 
• Contribute to the long-term, positive impact of globally prepared graduates on local and regional communities.
• Support civic involvement and local initiatives.