January 25, 2024
by Jere W. Morehead, President
Study abroad has been an important part of higher education at the University of Georgia for more than half a century. Today, UGA is a national leader in this field, ranking No. 6 for study abroad participation in the most recent Open Doors report from the Institute of International Education. One in three graduating seniors from UGA has studied abroad for academic credit, making this life-changing opportunity a key component of our experiential learning initiative.
The first two UGA study abroad programs—UGA Cortona and UGA in Rome—were founded in 1970. UGA faculty now lead 133 study abroad programs in 88 countries, and the University has international centers in Cortona, Italy, and Oxford, England. Over 3,700 UGA students studied abroad last year, the most in our institution’s history. To further expand that number, the UGA Office of Global Engagement works with faculty and offices throughout campus on programs and initiatives to help students navigate their paths to global citizenship.
Generous alumni and friends of the University are increasing students’ financial access to study abroad through their contributions to scholarships in individual colleges and schools as well as to university-wide initiatives. Many donors have established funds to support experiential learning, including study abroad. Additionally, donors to the “Georgia Women Give” campaign—a nationwide group of women committed to philanthropy, community and learning—created an endowment to fund students’ participation in international and domestic study away programs.
Thanks to the willingness of faculty to lead these valuable hands-on learning experiences, the dedication of staff in the Office of Global Engagement, and the generosity of UGA alumni and friends, the University of Georgia is equipping students to become leaders in the global economy and preparing them to take on the world’s toughest challenges.