As the world continues to become more globalized, clearly made evident by the recent recession and worldwide economic system failure, it has become increasingly more important for our students to be more knowledgeable of the world in which we live, thus more engaged and competitive in the global workforce. One of the best ways to educate and prepare our students for a smaller world is through a short term study-abroad course.

More and more, institutions of higher learning are trying to incorporate study abroad experiences into their required curriculum. Until recently, semester or year-long study abroad programs have provided these opportunities to a majority of U.S students. Current studies conducted by the Forum on Education Abroad have concluded that over 52% of U.S. students studying abroad turned to concentrated short-term courses of two to eight weeks. These courses are normally led by faculty directors from the student’s home institution. The faculty directors of these courses, as ascertained by the institution are decidedly educated and motivated in the course subject and destinations visited. Short-term programs can provide a more economical international experience model in a time frame which opens the doors for countless students to benefits of studying abroad.

Since 1968, Seminars International has used our vast knowledge of the world to consult with international education professionals and faculty nationwide. We strive to develop course itineraries to meet their pedagogical goals. Then in conjunction with our partners throughout the world, negotiate and finalize all logistical travel details. Our services are designed to free up the faculty director as much as possible to concentrate on their syllabus rather than worry about the specifics of transportation, accommodations, guides, tours, site visits, meals, etc. Often international travel courses experience unforeseen obstacles, such as flight cancellations, hotel closings, labor strikes, train delays, lost luggage, etc. Seminars International and our partners abroad have years of experience dealing with these and similar issues and are readily available to problem solve with faculty directors while a course is in operation overseas. Simply speaking, our services allow faculty to concentrate on what they do best…teach.