The 2020 Open Doors report, released by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the Institute of International Education (IIE), has again ranked Appalachian State University highly among comprehensive masters level degree-granting institutions in the field of study abroad. Appalachian ranks 2nd for the number of students studying abroad for academic credit on short-term programs and 3rd for the number of students studying abroad for academic credit.
“Being recognized for excellence in study abroad by IIE reminds us of Appalachian’s continuing global impact in providing transformational learning experiences for our students. Those rankings represent students who’ve been positively impacted by global experiences, and we do not take that lightly,” said Jesse Lutabingwa, Associate Vice Chancellor for International Education and Development, Office of International Education and Development (OIED).
“Much of the credit for these achievements goes to our faculty, staff, and students. Our faculty members and staff work tirelessly to provide global learning opportunities for our students,” adds Lutabingwa.
IIE gathered information from American colleges and universities from the 2018-2019 academic year for the 2020 Open Doors report. Study abroad for the 2018-2019 academic year was not affected by COVID-19.
“These accolades are encouraging to receive during a time when study abroad programs are on pause,” said Chrissie Faupel, Director of Education Abroad, OIED. “Even so, Appalachian continues to engage with the world, and we have numerous faculty and students who are involved with global virtual programs. Never have these global connections seemed as important as they do right now.”
More information about study abroad programming, including virtual programs, can be found on OIED’s website.