Leaders in study abroad
Minnesota’s private colleges are leading the way in undergraduate study abroad participation, according to the latest Open Doors report published by the Institute of International Education. The report indicates that in 2004-2005, of Minnesota students studying 
abroad, 58 percent attended the 17 institutions of the Minnesota Private College Council (MPCC) compared to 30 percent at the University of Minnesota and 12 percent at state universities.
In addition, many of Minnesota’s private colleges lead the nation in participation. Among the top 20 baccalaureate institutions for study abroad participation, five MPCC member schools were listed. St. Olaf College ranked number one and was joined by the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University (two), Concordia College-Moorhead (seven) and Gustavus Adolphus College (17). Additionally, among the top 20 research institutions, the University of St. Thomas ranked third overall and was the only Minnesota school to appear on the list.
MPCC colleges and universities offer a wide variety of study abroad programs, making it manageable for students to fulfill course requirements while participating in these global experiences. Trip lengths can vary from semester-long experiences lasting several months to January or May term trips lasting 3-4 weeks to summer opportunities. All opportunities offer students the chance to explore topics such as the arts, science or history in a broader, more global context, while allowing students to experience different cultures. Study abroad enriches students’ academic experiences and their perspectives of the world by engaging them in learning outside the classroom.
The U.S. Senate passed a resolution designating 2006 as the “Year of Study Abroad.” The resolution encourages initiatives and opportunities for students to study abroad. Examples of current study abroad offerings at MPCC institutions include study in Namibia to learn about globalization and nation-building (Augsburg College); travel to Scandinavia to study environmental, social and cultural sustainability (College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University) and study of biology in India (St. Olaf College). As interest increases among students, MPCC schools are continually adding and expanding the opportunities available to students.
The strength of our study abroad programs can be attributed in part to the liberal arts emphasis on global diversity and awareness. Our institutions also are committed to preparing students to be good citizens and exemplary leaders through international education. Study abroad experiences allow students to expand and build on such vital skills as communicating and relating to people across cultures. Such skills are becoming increasingly important and necessary to students who will be working and contributing in an ever-changing global environment.