International and Exchange Programs

Overview

Welcome CSUMB Students

The CSUMB Office of International Programs (OIP) offers CSUMB students a variety of programs available to those who wish to study overseas or participate in an exchange program abroad in the US. Some study abroad programs require a full year commitment, while other international and study-away experiences last from just a few weeks to a semester. It really depends on your specific objectives. In any case, whatever your academic program or personal interests are, there is a program that is right for you.

Some students have imagined themselves studying abroad for a long time while others have believed that this was an opportunity created for other students. OIP would argue that these programs are both affordable and applicable to all majors, and that every student at CSUMB should take advantage of either a study abroad or a national exchange program.

If you are still thinking about this opportunity, here are a few good reasons to study abroad:

• To enhance your education. A study abroad or exchange experience adds a new perspective to your studies. You will see things from another point of view, which will help you to develop your analytical and critical thinking skills.
  
  
• To build your resume. Study in another country or region of the country adds a new dimension to your career planning. In an age of global economies and information super-highways, experience abroad or outside California distinguishes your background from the rest.
  
  
• To develop your self-awareness. We sometimes impose limitations on ourselves that hinder progress toward our goals. By leaving the familiar behind and encountering different people and places you will gain a better understanding of yourself and the world around you.
  
  
• To understand another culture. Living and learning in another culture in the midst of the unfamiliar adds to your understanding of the variety of cultures in our world and gives you a maturity and perspective that can be gained in no other way.

Okay, so you’re still interested? Great! Now, let’s get started:

STEP1. Contact the Office of International Programs early on. If you plan on studying abroad in your junior year, you should attend one of our presentations and be talking with us while a sophomore or even earlier to understand specific program requirements and options.

STEP 2. Meet with your faculty advisor. Your faculty advisor will help you to select the appropriate study abroad or exchange courses and help to ensure your academic learning plan takes into consideration the time you will be away from CSUMB. Not yet declared or not assigned a faculty advisor? Contact the academic department where you plan to declare a major and ask that office to assist you. Otherwise, contact the lower-division advising office for assistance.

STEP 3. This is where you review the information about the particular program (or programs) you are interested in, select the program to which you want to apply, and begin the application process. Follow one of the links below to learn more about your study options.

• Study Options Affiliated with CSUMB
  Study Abroad and exchange programs currently approved at CSUMB
  
  
• Non-Affiliated Study Abroad Programs