COD Study Abroad Program Enrolls Largest Number of Students in Nation

According to the Institute of International Education's Open Doors Report, College of DuPage is ranked number one nationally among community colleges offering credit for studying abroad during the 2013/2014 school year, the most recent annual data available for study abroad programs.

COD awarded credit to 206 students who studied abroad in a wide variety of locations throughout the world including China, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Spain.

"We've been in the top five for several years and that, in and of itself, is something to be proud of, but number one feels good and the timing is perfect," said Maren McKellin, Manager of Field and Experiential Learning/Study Abroad. "We have such a great team of staff and faculty right now and it shows. In fact, I can't think of one department at COD that hasn't contributed somehow to this honor. From Registration, to Counseling and Advising, to Student Life, to Finance, to Marketing - we could not administer this program without the support, talent and collaborative spirit of so many people."

The Field and Experiential Learning, Study Abroad and Global Education program at College of DuPage offers a variety of classes that use the world as their classroom, including domestic and international opportunities in a broad range of subjects. The College has offered many successful international trips since 1970 and has taken students to more than 80 countries spanning all seven continents.

"Providing study abroad opportunities to students - especially at the community college level - is key to the College's mission," said McKellin. "Students are able to see another part of the world, experience a different type of education, explore languages and cultures, and earn credit toward a degree or certificate. These opportunities are also a chance to develop personally as students work on their abilities to problem solve and adapt. These experiences force students out of their comfort zone and they return with new experiences, new skills and a new vocabulary with which to describe themselves."

Click here for more information about Field and Experiential and Study Abroad programs at College of DuPage.