International Studies & Programs

Home > Faculty & Program Directors > Guide to MSU Education Abroad Programming

Propose a New Program

A full proposal includes the submission of an online application form, a narrative description of the proposed program, and accompanying documentation. Depending on the type of program you are proposing, there are different requirements for the narrative responses and for required supplementary documents.


Term Proposal Deadline
Fall Semester Program October 31 the year prior
Winter Break Program January 31 the year prior
Spring Semester Program January 31 the year prior
Spring Break Program January 31 the year prior
Summer Program August 1 the year prior

 

You may find it helpful to view a sample program proposal.

Click on any of the following tabs to learn more about the specific proposal steps for the particular program type you are proposing:

New Faculty-Directed Program

New Faculty-Directed Program

A complete proposal will consist of the following components:

  1. A completed proposal form for a new faculty-directed program
  2. A narrative description of the proposed program
  3. Supporting documents
    • Draft budget
    • Letter(s) of support from sponsoring department chairs and colleges' lead representative on the MSU Advisory Council for Education Abroad
    • Map(s) related to intended destinations
    • Projected itinerary, including travel, classroom time, field trips/excursions, guest speakers, etc.
    • Draft of course syllabus/syllabi

Please submit completed proposal documents via email to Maria Beam: beamm(at)msu.edu

New Faculty-Directed Program Proposal Form

New Faculty-Directed Program Proposal Form

General Program Information | page 1 of 5
Program Faculty Information | page 2 of 5
Academic Appointment (check all that apply) *
Primary Faculty Director Responsibilities (check all that apply) *
Additional Faculty Director Responsibilities (check all that apply)
Will off-site assisting staff accept students for the program?
Program Academic Requirements | page 3 of 5
Graduate credit offered *
Anticipated experiences included with proposed program (check all that apply) *
Program Logistics | page 4 of 5
Program Housing Options: (check all that apply) *
Frequency of Program Offering: *
Program Requirements | page 5 of 5
MSU Students Only *
Graduate students only *

New Faculty-Directed Program Narrative Description

New Faculty-Directed Program Narrative Description

Complete the proposal narrative by addressing all items listed below.  Each item needs to be addressed for your narrative to be complete.

Please submit your completed narrative via email to beamm(at)msu.edu.

Program Overview

(A) Provide an overview of the program's:

i. academic content
List course titles, codes, number of credits, and how credit earned on this program will fulfill requirements in the major (as well as university and college requirements).

ii. description of physical environments, including:

  1. housing options and accommodations
  2. meal arrangements
  3. available shopping
  4. public transportation
  5. available student services and facilities
  6. accessibility and services for students with disabilities, etc.

iii. contact hours
In terms of how many contact hours will be met through classroom time and through field experiences.

(B) Briefly discuss the program's expected academic and experiential student learning outcomes
Explain how these outcomes support MSU/college/department learning goals. Please include any plans for facilitating (inter)cultural engagement and learning on site, as well as reflection during and after the program.

(C) Explain how the proposed program supports the education abroad strategy of the applicable college(s)/department(s).

(D) Provide an estimate of likely student enrollment initially and in subsequent years (number of students, targeted majors) and briefly describe your recruitment plan, including plans for recruiting a diverse student body. Also indicate:

  1. Who will serve as the point person for the Education Abroad college liaison (i.e., program coordinator)?
  2. Who will be responsible for student advising?
  3. Who will review student applications?
  4. Will non-MSU students be eligible to participate?
  5. Who will serve as chief of party and take responsibility for post-program financial reconciliation?
  6. Whether or not this new program competes with existing MSU education abroad offerings.

(E) Describe your prior experience in the host country, with topics relevant to the host country as a context for this EA program, and if applicable, your proficiency with languages relevant to the program and host community(ies).

(F) List the minimally required as well as desired requirements for student participation in the program. Such as class standing, GPA, course prerequisites, application essay and/or interview, etc.  

In an effort to promote access, ensure equity and provide education abroad opportunities to the most diverse and exemplary cadre of students possible, consistency is required in the application and selection process, as well as language used in written and oral communication, including the application.

To help mitigate bias and potential backlash from applicants who exchange notes with one another, a standard set of interview questions should be established and agreed upon. In addition, a decision should be made whether or not to interview every applicant or none at all. Decisions to interview some applicants may be perceived as or indeed be done subjectively which diminishes the integrity of the application and review process, as well as disadvantage and potentially harm some students.

(G) Briefly address how the program will endeavor to create mutually beneficial relationships with/in host communities.

(H) Describe how students will be prepared/oriented for the program and what, if any, post-program follow-up will be available to them (e.g., program reunion, reflective “unpacking” workshops, etc.).

(I) Describe how the department/college will evaluate the program and assess its intended student learning outcomes.

(J) Explain all health, safety, and security precautions

Health, Safety, and Security

Special Instructions for Addressing Health, Safety, and Security

Risk management is a crucial component in our review of program proposals. You should review the information available through the U.S. Department of State and International SOS and your proposal should describe how your program design, preparation of students, and on-site procedures will mitigate the risks identified by the Department of State and International SOS. The Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security is happy to assist program leaders in developing thorough health, safety, and security program protocols so do not hesitate to reach out to them (globalsafety(at)msu.edu or 517-884-9419).

Program directors must complete a Critical Incident Management Seminar before leading a program for the first time and then at least every two years. More information on these seminars and other important tips for program directors may be found on the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security's webpage.

1. Safety and Security

Program proposals must demonstrate the director’s clear understanding of the risk environment and must detail appropriate risk mitigation strategies. Many risks can be mitigated through thoughtful program design, pre-departure education, and consulting local sources.

For each category below, identify any risks that may impact your program and the strategies your program will undertake to mitigate these risks:

  • Terrorism
  • Civil unrest
  • Crime/criminal activity
  • Natural disasters
  • Other

2. Health

Program leadership must be aware that there may be health issues that arise during the program, and should be prepared to handle student, faculty, or staff health issues.

Identify the risks and mitigation strategies for:

  • Public health risks including but not limited to: water drinkability, food safety, and air pollution
  • Access to medical care (e.g. nearest local health center/hospital with appropriate standard of care – contact International SOS for assistance locating a vetted provider. International SOS can be reached at 1-215-942-8478. MSU Membership # 11BCAS798617)

3. Program Activities

It is also important to consider risk as it may relate to the program activities. In this section, please offer the following:

  • A detailed program itinerary that describes the locations and activities the program will undertake. Relevant information includes vendors that will be contracted. We understand that your program itinerary may change but request an overview of what you expect your program will look like.
  • A description of any water safety concerns and mitigation strategies (e.g. swimming, snorkeling, water sports etc.).
  • Maps of program activity locations.
  • Physical requirements for participation in the program. Keep in mind that students with physical disabilities and/or pre-existing physical and mental health conditions may be interested in participating in your program.
    • Regular: involves similar activities to those on campus. Moderate level of walking expected. Should not create any unusual physical demands.
    • Strenuous: Involves travelling that includes carrying luggage and may include frequent use of public transportation. Includes one or more required physical activities that contribute to the academic goals of the program.
    • Very strenuous: Involves regular, constant and demanding physical activity necessary for full participation in the program. Above average physical fitness required.

4. Local Support and Resources

Strong local support can be crucial in ensuring your program is healthy, safe, and well managed. Your program proposal must include:

  • An overview of on-site contacts that your participants and MSU can connect with while your program is running.
  • A description of the types of transportation you will be using throughout your program. This may include modes of public transportation, contracted vendors, etc.
  • Contact information for the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in each location your program will be visiting.

5. Program Preparation

Please describe your plans for offering pre-departure orientation for students. Guidance, including a link to a pre-departure orientation template, is available online. You are also encouraged to consult with regional experts. These may include areas experts at International Studies & Programs, your Education Abroad Program Coordinator, the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security, or MSU faculty, staff, and students from the country you will be visiting.

6. Housing

  • Please describe the type of accommodations (e.g. residence hall, apartment) and the security features in place (e.g. 24/7 security, swipe key access).
  • Where is housing located in relation to classroom space? Will students need to commute to campus? If so, please describe the transportation available.

New direct enroll, exchange, and provider programs must complete the section below. Guidance for faculty-directed program proposals is forthcoming.

7. COVID-19 Considerations

  • Does the host institution/provider have any concerns about welcoming U.S. students to their campus given the COVID-19 pandemic? Please consider things like entry restrictions, visas, local sentiment toward visitors etc.
  • Please describe the level of student health supported available through the host institution or provider (e.g. on-campus health clinic).
  • What steps is the host institution/provider is taking to mitigate COVID-19 related risks. Please describe any plans for academic continuity in case a student needs to quarantine or return to the U.S, any plans to support a student who needs to self-quarantine, any plans for testing, contact tracing etc.

New Direct Enroll Program

New Direct Enroll Program

A complete proposal will consist of the following three components:

  1. A completed proposal form for a new direct enroll program
  2. A narrative description of the proposed program
  3. Supporting documents
    • A draft budget, including an estimate of the on-site expenses students need to cover out-of-pocket (such as room and board, transportation, spending money, host institution insurance, course materials, visa, immunizations, etc.)
    • Letter(s) of support from sponsoring department chairs and college's lead representative on the MSU Advisory Council on Education Abroad (supporting the program overall)
    • Map(s) related to intended destinations
    • A completed and signed Subject Code Approval sheet (aka: academic SCOPE) (obtain the current one for your college from the Office for Education Abroad via Maria Beam: beamm(at)msu.edu)
    • A credit and grade conversion chart (i.e., how many MSU credits will be awarded for host institution credit earned; how do host institution grades map onto the MSU grading scale)
    • A list of at least 10 courses that have been approved by the sponsoring academic unit(s) to come back to MSU (if more than one sponsoring unit, list 5 approved courses per college). 

Note that new Direct Enroll programs will need to have a "Direct Enrollment Agreement" on file. To initiate this process, please email Dr. Elizabeth Wandschneider: wandsch(at)msu.edu

Please submit completed proposal documents via email to Maria Beam: beamm(at)msu.edu.

New Direct Enroll Program Proposal Form

New Direct Enroll Program Proposal Form

Please note that this form cannot be saved. Therefore, we recommend that you review and prepare all of the information required prior to completing and submitting this form.

General Program Information | page 1 of 5
Program MSU Faculty Information | page 2 of 5
Academic Appointment (check all that apply) *
Primary MSU Faculty Director Responsibilities (check all that apply) *
Additional Program Leader Responsibilities (check all that apply)
Will off-site assisting staff accept students for the program?
Program Academic Requirements | page 3 of 5
Graduate credit offered *
Anticipated experiences included with proposed program (check all that apply) *
Program Logistics | page 4 of 5
Program Housing Options: (check all that apply) *
Frequency of Program Offering: *
Program Requirements | page 5 of 5
MSU Students Only *
Graduate students only *
Forms required with student application:
List all required forms: ex. Essay/statement of purpose, homestay questionnaire, copy of passport, etc; include both your admission requirements and those of any overseas partners.
Student requirements and prerequisites:
List all requirements: ex. Prerequisite coursework, language prerequisite, major(s), class standing (first-year/sophomore/junior/senior/grad), etc.

New Direct Enroll Program Narrative Description

New Direct Enroll Program Narrative Description

Complete the proposal narrative by addressing all items listed below.  Each item needs to be addressed for your narrative to be complete.

Please submit your completed narrative via email to beamm(at)msu.edu.

Program Overview

(A) Provide a brief rationale for choosing this particular partner institution to expand your college's education abroad portfolio. How will working with this partner institution enhance your college's portfolio and address student needs (academic, financial, professional, etc.)? Will this new program compete with existing education abroad offerings in the MSU portfolio? If yes, how? If no, explain. Describe how this program supports the college's strategy for education abroad.

(B) Provide a brief description of the partner institution.

  1. Name
  2. Location (map)
  3. Demographics
  4. Quality of the institution
  5. Host institution admission criteria and process (e.g., host institution required GPA, acceptance process, etc.)
  6. Host institution administrative and academic contacts
  7. Student housing and meals
  8. Availability of daily shopping
  9. Availability of public transportation
  10. Student services and facilities (e.g., on-site/arrival orientation; on-site academic and general advising; counseling services; libraries, computer centers, sports/recreational facilities; etc.)

(C) Provide information about:

  1. Who will serve as the main college contact for this relationship
  2. Who will serve as faculty of record - academically and administratively
  3. The estimated likely student enrollment on this program
  4. Who will recruit students
  5. What efforts will be made to attract a diverse student body
  6. Who will review and approve student applications
  7. What minimum requirements students must in order to be eligible (e.g., class standing, GPA, course pre-requisites, foreign language requirements, etc.)

(D) Describe how students will be prepared/oriented for the program and what, if any, post-program follow-up will be available to them (e.g., program reunion, reflective “unpacking” workshops, etc.)

(E) Briefly describe how the department/college will evaluate this program to determine whether or not to continue with them for the next year. Who will conduct this evaluation for the college (in collaboration with Education Abroad?)

Health, Safety, and Security

Special Instructions for Addressing Health, Safety, and Security

Risk management is a crucial component in our review of program proposals. You should review the information available through the U.S. Department of State and International SOS and your proposal should describe how your program design, preparation of students, and on-site procedures will mitigate the risks identified by the Department of State and International SOS. The Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security is happy to assist program leaders in developing thorough health, safety, and security program protocols so do not hesitate to reach out to them (globalsafety(at)msu.edu or 517-884-9419).

Program directors must complete a Critical Incident Management Seminar before leading a program for the first time and then at least every two years. More information on these seminars and other important tips for program directors may be found on the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security's website.

1. Safety and Security

Program proposals must demonstrate the director’s clear understanding of the risk environment and must detail appropriate risk mitigation strategies. Many risks can be mitigated through thoughtful program design, pre-departure education, and consulting local sources.

For each category below, identify any risks that may impact your program and the strategies your program will undertake to mitigate these risks:

  • Terrorism
  • Civil unrest
  • Crime/criminal activity
  • Natural disasters
  • Other

2. Health

Program leadership must be aware that there may be health issues that arise during the program, and should be prepared to handle student, faculty, or staff health issues.

Identify the risks and mitigation strategies for:

  • Public health risks including but not limited to: water drinkability, food safety, and air pollution
  • Access to medical care (e.g. nearest local health center/hospital with appropriate standard of care – contact International SOS for assistance locating a vetted provider. International SOS can be reached at 1-215-942-8478. MSU Membership # 11BCAS798617)

3. Program Activities

It is also important to consider risk as it may relate to the program activities. In this section, please offer the following:

  • A detailed program itinerary that describes the locations and activities the program will undertake. Relevant information includes vendors that will be contracted. We understand that your program itinerary may change but request an overview of what you expect your program will look like.
  • A description of any water safety concerns and mitigation strategies (e.g. swimming, snorkeling, water sports etc.).
  • Maps of program activity locations.
  • Physical requirements for participation in the program. Keep in mind that students with physical disabilities and/or pre-existing physical and mental health conditions may be interested in participating in your program.
    • Regular: involves similar activities to those on campus. Moderate level of walking expected. Should not create any unusual physical demands.
    • Strenuous: Involves travelling that includes carrying luggage and may include frequent use of public transportation. Includes one or more required physical activities that contribute to the academic goals of the program.
    • Very strenuous: Involves regular, constant and demanding physical activity necessary for full participation in the program. Above average physical fitness required.

4. Local Support and Resources

Strong local support can be crucial in ensuring your program is healthy, safe, and well managed. Your program proposal must include:

  • An overview of on-site contacts that your participants and MSU can connect with while your program is running.
  • A description of the types of transportation you will be using throughout your program. This may include modes of public transportation, contracted vendors, etc.
  • Contact information for the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in each location your program will be visiting.

5. Program Preparation

Please describe your plans for offering pre-departure orientation for students. Guidance, including a link to a pre-departure orientation template, is available online. You are also encouraged to consult with regional experts. These may include areas experts at International Studies & Programs, your Education Abroad Program Coordinator, the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security, or MSU faculty, staff, and students from the country you will be visiting.

6. Housing

  • Please describe the type of accommodations (e.g. residence hall, apartment) and the security features in place (e.g. 24/7 security, swipe key access).
  • Where is housing located in relation to classroom space? Will students need to commute to campus? If so, please describe the transportation available.

New direct enroll, exchange, and provider programs must complete the section below. Guidance for faculty-directed program proposals is forthcoming.

7. COVID-19 Considerations

  • Does the host institution/provider have any concerns about welcoming U.S. students to their campus given the COVID-19 pandemic? Please consider things like entry restrictions, visas, local sentiment toward visitors etc.
  • Please describe the level of student health supported available through the host institution or provider (e.g. on-campus health clinic).
  • What steps is the host institution/provider is taking to mitigate COVID-19 related risks. Please describe any plans for academic continuity in case a student needs to quarantine or return to the U.S, any plans to support a student who needs to self-quarantine, any plans for testing, contact tracing etc.

 

New Exchange Program

New Exchange Program

A complete proposal will consist of the following three components:

  1. A completed proposal form for a new exchange program
  2. A narrative description of the proposed program
  3. Supporting documents
    • A draft budget, including an estimate of the on-site expenses students need to cover out-of-pocket (such as room and board, transportation, spending money, host institution insurance, course materials, visa, immunizations, etc.)
    • Letter(s) of support from sponsoring department chairs and colleges' lead representative on the MSU Advisory Council for Education Abroad
    • Map(s) related to intended destinations
    • A completed and signed Subject Code Approval sheet (aka: academic SCOPE) (obtain the current one for your college from the Office for Education Abroad via Maria Beam: beamm(at)msu.edu)
    • A credit and grade conversion chart (i.e., how many MSU credits will be awarded for host institution credit earned; how do host institution grades map onto the MSU grading scale)
    • A list of at least 10 courses that have been approved by the sponsoring academic unit(s) to come back to MSU (if more than one sponsoring unit, list 5 approved courses per college)
    • A confirmation signed by an authorized academic administrator or other authorized staff to the effect that incoming exchange students will have access to the majority of their courses within the sponsoring college.

Additional considerations and documents required for establishing a bilateral exchange program

Exchange programs require that the following documents are in place before student mobility may commence in either direction (outbound or inbound). While these documents can be initiated before program approval, it is suggested that signatures from the international partner institution not be collected until MSU has completed its review of the proposed program.

General MOU/MOA
The MSU General MOU/MOA Framework establishes a formal partnership between MSU and an international institution. This first type of agreement also encompasses student, faculty and/or staff exchanges, shared research projects, technology transfer and other specific activities. The MSU General MOU/MOA Framework is facilitated by the International Studies Program (ISP) Dean's Office.

A general MOU/MOA framework is required before a Two-Way Student Exch Aange Agreement can be initiated. A Two-Way Student Exchange Agreement should only be initiated for a true two-way bilateral exchange.

Two-Way Student Exchange Agreement
Primary points of contact at the home and host institution should have established a thorough review of courses and reciprocity of credits before a Two-Way Student Exchange Agreement is established. The conditions of the exchange, balances, and all pertinent items pertaining to the bilateral exchange shall be addressed through the Two-Way Student Exchange Agreement and must be agreed upon by both parties. Whenever necessary, MSU Colleges should consult the Associate Director for Education Abroad for assistance.

Please submit completed proposal documents via email to Maria Beam: beamm(at)msu.edu.

New Exchange Program Proposal Form

New Exchange Program Proposal Form

Please note that this form cannot be saved. Therefore, we recommend that you review and prepare all of the information required prior to completing and submitting this form.

General Program Information | page 1 of 5
Program MSU Faculty Information | page 2 of 5
Academic Appointment (check all that apply) *
Primary MSU Faculty Director Responsibilities (check all that apply) *
Additional Program Leader Responsibilities (check all that apply)
Will off-site assisting staff accept students for the program?
Program Academic Requirements | page 3 of 5
Graduate credit offered *
Anticipated experiences included with proposed program (check all that apply) *
Program Logistics | page 4 of 5
Program Housing Options: (check all that apply) *
Frequency of Program Offering: *
Program Requirements | page 5 of 5
MSU Students Only *
Graduate students only *
Forms required with student application:
List all required forms: ex. Essay/statement of purpose, homestay questionnaire, copy of passport, etc; include both your admission requirements and those of any overseas partners.
Student requirements and prerequisites:
List all requirements: ex. Prerequisite coursework, language prerequisite, major(s), class standing (first-year/sophomore/junior/senior/grad), etc.

New Exchange Program Narrative Description

New Exchange Program Narrative Description

Complete the proposal narrative by addressing all items listed below.  Each item needs to be addressed for your narrative to be complete.

Please submit your completed narrative via email to beamm(at)msu.edu.

Program Overview

(A) Provide a brief rationale for choosing this particular partner institution to expand your college's education abroad portfolio. How will working with this partner institution enhance your college's portfolio and address student needs (academic, financial, professional, etc.)? Will this new program compete with existing education abroad offerings in the MSU portfolio? If yes, how? If no, please explain why not. Describe how this program supports the college's strategy for education abroad.

(B) Provide a brief description of the partner institution.

  1. Name
  2. Location (map)
  3. Demographics
  4. Quality of the institution
  5. Host institution admission criteria and process (e.g., host institution required GPA, acceptance process, etc.)
  6. Host institution administrative and academic contacts
  7. Student housing and meals
  8. Availability of daily shopping
  9. Availability of public transportation
  10. Student services and facilities (e.g., on-site/arrival orientation; on-site academic and general advising; counseling services; libraries, computer centers, sports/recreational facilities; etc.)

(C) Provide information about:

  1. Who will serve as the main college contact for this relationship
  2. Who will serve as faculty of record - academically and administratively
  3. The estimated likely student enrollment on this program
  4. Who will recruit students
  5. What efforts will be made to attract a diverse student body
  6. Who will review and approve student applications
  7. What minimum requirements students must in order to be eligible (e.g., class standing, GPA, course pre-requisites, foreign language requirements, etc.)

(D) Describe how students will be prepared/oriented for the program and what, if any, post-program follow-up will be available to them (e.g., program reunion, reflective "unpacking" workshops, etc.)

(E) Briefly describe how the department/college will evaluate this program to determine whether or not to continue with them for the next year. Who will conduct this evaluation for the college (in collaboration with Education Abroad?)

Health, Safety, and Security

Special Instructions for Addressing Health, Safety, and Security

Risk management is a crucial component in our review of program proposals. You should review the information available through the U.S. Department of State and International SOS and your proposal should describe how your program design, preparation of students, and on-site procedures will mitigate the risks identified by the Department of State and International SOS. The Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security is happy to assist program leaders in developing thorough health, safety, and security program protocols so do not hesitate to reach out to them (globalsafety(at)msu.edu or 517-884-9419).

Program directors must complete a Critical Incident Management Seminar before leading a program for the first time and then at least every two years. More information on these seminars and other important tips for program directors may be found on the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security's webpage.

1. Safety and Security

Program proposals must demonstrate the director’s clear understanding of the risk environment and must detail appropriate risk mitigation strategies. Many risks can be mitigated through thoughtful program design, pre-departure education, and consulting local sources.

For each category below, identify any risks that may impact your program and the strategies your program will undertake to mitigate these risks:

  • Terrorism
  • Civil unrest
  • Crime/criminal activity
  • Natural disasters
  • Other

2. Health

Program leadership must be aware that there may be health issues that arise during the program, and should be prepared to handle student, faculty, or staff health issues.

Identify the risks and mitigation strategies for:

  • Public health risks including but not limited to: water drinkability, food safety, and air pollution
  • Access to medical care (e.g. nearest local health center/hospital with appropriate standard of care – contact International SOS for assistance locating a vetted provider. International SOS can be reached at 1-215-942-8478. MSU Membership # 11BCAS798617)

3. Program Activities

It is also important to consider risk as it may relate to the program activities. In this section, please offer the following:

  • A detailed program itinerary that describes the locations and activities the program will undertake. Relevant information includes vendors that will be contracted. We understand that your program itinerary may change but request an overview of what you expect your program will look like.
  • A description of any water safety concerns and mitigation strategies (e.g. swimming, snorkeling, water sports etc.).
  • Maps of program activity locations.
  • Physical requirements for participation in the program. Keep in mind that students with physical disabilities and/or pre-existing physical and mental health conditions may be interested in participating in your program.
    • Regular: involves similar activities to those on campus. Moderate level of walking expected. Should not create any unusual physical demands.
    • Strenuous: Involves travelling that includes carrying luggage and may include frequent use of public transportation. Includes one or more required physical activities that contribute to the academic goals of the program.
    • Very strenuous: Involves regular, constant and demanding physical activity necessary for full participation in the program. Above average physical fitness required.

4. Local Support and Resources

Strong local support can be crucial in ensuring your program is healthy, safe, and well managed. Your program proposal must include:

  • An overview of on-site contacts that your participants and MSU can connect with while your program is running.
  • A description of the types of transportation you will be using throughout your program. This may include modes of public transportation, contracted vendors, etc.
  • Contact information for the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in each location your program will be visiting.

5. Program Preparation

Please describe your plans for offering pre-departure orientation for students. Guidance, including a link to a pre-departure orientation template, is available online. You are also encouraged to consult with regional experts. These may include areas experts at International Studies & Programs, your Education Abroad Program Coordinator, the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security, or MSU faculty, staff, and students from the country you will be visiting.

6. Housing

  • Please describe the type of accommodations (e.g. residence hall, apartment) and the security features in place (e.g. 24/7 security, swipe key access).
  • Where is housing located in relation to classroom space? Will students need to commute to campus? If so, please describe the transportation available.

New direct enroll, exchange, and provider programs must complete the section below. Guidance for faculty-directed program proposals is forthcoming.

7. COVID-19 Considerations

  • Does the host institution/provider have any concerns about welcoming U.S. students to their campus given the COVID-19 pandemic? Please consider things like entry restrictions, visas, local sentiment toward visitors etc.
  • Please describe the level of student health supported available through the host institution or provider (e.g. on-campus health clinic).
  • What steps is the host institution/provider is taking to mitigate COVID-19 related risks. Please describe any plans for academic continuity in case a student needs to quarantine or return to the U.S, any plans to support a student who needs to self-quarantine, any plans for testing, contact tracing etc.

 

Review Process

Review Process

Review of program proposals takes place on a rolling cycle throughout the year. However, please make sure to familiarize yourself with the proposal submission deadlines as they vary depending on term and program type. All MSU education abroad credit-bearing programs are administered by Education Abroad, in partnership with the sponsoring college(s).

Summer program proposals that are received by August 1 have the best chance of being reviewed and decided upon prior to the Fall Education Abroad Expo so that you can recruit at this key event.

  • Late proposals will be accepted up until September 1.
  • Proposals received after September 1 will be considered for the next cycle.
  • New programs cannot be advertised or marketed to students until final approval is received.

The overall review is coordinated by EA. Those consulted include:

  • Associate Director of the Office for Education Abroad (for overall proposal strength)
  • Relevant EA coordinator (for feasibility of program logistics, cost, and marketing)
  • Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security (for review of any health or safety concerns)
  • In some cases, relevant MSU faculty and staff (including those familiar with the geographic area and/or subject matter)
  • Dean of International Studies and Programs
  • Assistant Director for Finances and Operational Management (for review of the draft budget)

Review Procedure

  1. Academic units and colleges are responsible for review of program and course subject matter and instructional delivery methods. Program proposals must have the written support of the relevant department chair(s) and college dean(s) or the Advisory Council on Education Abroad. 
    • Some colleges have their own internal review process for new program proposals. The college-level review must be completed before a proposal can be forwarded to EA for final review and approval.
  2. Submit full program proposal to EA for approval. Email proposal and supporting documents to the EA Executive Assistant to the Director, Maria Beam: beamm(at)msu.edu
    • Once a complete program proposal is received by EA, a final decision regarding approval takes an average of one month, depending on reviewers' availability and need for program revisions.
  3. Once a new program is approved, the program director will work with the Education Abroad coordinator assigned to their college.
#spartansabroad