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.

(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 (see Health, Safety, and Security tab above)

Health, Safety, and Security

Special Instructions for Addressing Health, Safety, and Security

Risk management is a crucial component in our review of program proposals. The Office of International Health and Safety (OIHS) is happy to assist program directors in developing thorough health, safety, and security program protocols so do not hesitate to reach out to them (oihs(at)msu.edu or 517-884-9419).

Program directors must complete a Critical Incident Management Seminar (formerly called the Emergency Preparedness and Response Seminar – or EP&R) 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 OIHS 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. Please use the U.S. Department of State or International SOS as one of your resources as you complete this section.

A.) Terrorism
B.) Civil unrest
C.) Crime/criminal activity
D.) Natural disasters
E.) 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:

a) Public health risks including but not limited to: water drinkability, food safety, and air pollution
b) Access to medical care (e.g. nearest local health center/hospital with appropriate standard of care -email oihs(at)msu.edu for assistance)

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) 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.

b) A description of any water safety concerns and mitigation strategies (e.g. swimming, snorkeling, water sports etc.).

c) Maps of program activity locations.

d) 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 traveling 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:

a) An overview of on-site contacts that your participants and MSU can connect with while your program is running.

b) A description of the types of transportation you will be using throughout your program. This may include modes of public transportation, contracted vendors, etc.

c) Contact information for the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in each location your program will be visiting.