Faculty-led education abroad programs enable the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering (NACOE) faculty to build upon their own discipline-specific expertise while leveraging global knowledge and connections. Faculty-led courses abroad enhance the course offerings and support the internationalization strategic goals of the college and respond to the global readiness charge for the Engineer of 2030.

Leader Eligibility

Those eligible to lead a NACOE program include:

  • NACOE Tenure-Track faculty members with a teaching appointment.
  • Non-Tenure Track faculty with a completed termal degree.
  • Graduate students are not eligible to lead a program abroad, although co-teaching may be considered.

Funding

Currently, funding does not exist to support planning and implementation of a faculty-led, study abroad experience. Faculty should plan to meet the 15 student minimum criteria for a summer course to run.

Expectations

Leading a study abroad program is a unique opportunity to provide NACOE students with high-impact
international learning experiences. However, effective programming requires extensive planning and
preparation. Faculty should expect to take the lead on program planning. 

Program Planning Criteria
Activity
Description
Proposal Process
Proposals must be submitted a minimum of 12 months before the program departure date.
Location Expertise

A high level of expertise/or experience/support in the proposed location is required. Faculty should plan to lead course development, logistics, and in-country navigation.
Logistical Coordination
A strong understanding of logistics is critical to develop an effective itinerary and high-quality academic experience. Knowledge of the language (if English is not widespread in the desired location) is helpful, but not necessary. The Office of International Programs provides some support such as contract agreements (e.g.: housing, cultural experiences), and arranging some transportation.

Program Recruitment
Faculty leaders recruit participants through in-class presentations, info sessions, and other activities. While the Office of International Programs provides some support for recruitment and marketing, these activities are predominately the responsibility of faculty.
Academic Coordination

Faculty leaders serve as the instructor of record for the course abroad and coordinate the program's academic components.
While Abroad
Faculty leaders are expected to manage the program’s finances and logistics, handle the rare crisis that arises, and act as an institutional representative - while also teaching the course.
Post-Program Survey

The NACOE Deans Office will distribute a post-program survey to participants shortly after the program has concluded. Survey results will be shared with the Department Chair and the Dean’s Office.

NACOE Policies for Faculty-Led Study Abroad Programs

New Programs:

  1. Consult with department head about plans to host a Faculty-Led experience.
  2. Consult with the Office of International programs to understand the process.
  3. Be clear on funding sources.
  4. Review the EGEN 493 - Study Abroad basic syllabus. Adjust credits and learning outcomes to align with your course and experience.
  5. Organize international collaborations as appropriate.
  6. Submit syllabus for approval 12-18 months ahead of  planned trip.
  7. Work with Office of International Programs and NACOE on advertising course.
  8. Plan to host interviews or other selection processes early in the semester before the experience.

This is not an exhaustive list of planning topics. Work closely and regularly with your department and Office of International Programs while planning your course. 

Timeline
Month/Year Action
Summer Before

Submit Syllabus and Trip Proposal for Acceptance.

Notify Office of International Programs (OIP) of Course.

If using an outside coordinating service request OIP work with them to become a approved vendor.

Begin working on trip logistics - these should be finalized by end of summer so trip costs can be set.
Secure Funding by Fall Before

At minimum, $10,000 per course lead is needed. It is recommended to have 2 course leads.

It is the faculty's responsibiity to organize this funding. Talk with Department Head, submit grant proposals, etc.. It is helpful to focus language used in grant proposals on funding to support students going abroad. For a group of 15 students, a $20,000 grant would off-set student costs by $1,500 per student.

Grant language should focus on off-setting the costs for students to participate in a faculty-led study abroad experience. Study abroad experiences provide a specialized, robust, 360 degree, global view of a discipline for participants. These opportunities allow faculty to coach student identity and shape understanding of engineering and computing as a way of problem solving that benefits from global experience and connection. 
Recruit Students During Fall Term

Faculty leads for study abroad must market their course. Create a marketing flyer. Share experience with academic advisors. Visit classes and market the opportunity. Host information sessions, share details through college and department newsletters, table throughout the college buildings. 

Student participants should be confirmed by end of Fall term.

Spring Term

 Throughout the spring term check-in with students to ensure they are