What is a First-Year Seminar Abroad/Away?
A First-Year Seminar Abroad (international location) or First-Year Seminar Away (domestic location) is an opportunity to explore intriguing topics in small, active learning environments.
The seminars occur during the summer between high school graduation and the start of the MSU school year, typically from mid-July to mid-August. All seminars include at least two (2) days of on-campus pre-departure orientation, followed by group travel abroad for 10–14 days.
MSU faculty and staff design these seminars to help students:
International locations include Canada (for Detroit Made students only), Costa Rica, France, Iceland, Italy and the United Kingdom. One domestic location is also available at the MSU Kellogg Biological Station for international students and TRIO students.
Seminars provide an introductory first-year experience that combines academic engagement and experiential learning.
Eligibility requirements, application procedures, deadline dates, info about acceptance, and how to withdraw from a program.
A breakdown of the three (3) main costs of a First-Year Seminar and a short list of scholarship opportunities.
An overview for parents about the First-Year Seminar Abroad and Away programs.
Common questions about airfare, housing, meals, and more.