DU Recognized for Study Abroad Program

For the fifth consecutive year, the University of Denver ranks in the top five in the country for undergraduate participation in a study abroad program. According to Open Doors and based on the 2015–16 academic year, DU ranks fourth in the nation with 70.7 percent participation, up from 67.9 percent the previous year.

“We are proud that DU sends such a high number of our undergraduate students abroad,” says Denise Cope, director of the Office of International Education. “We see increases in students’ cultural self-awareness and knowledge of cultural worldview frameworks. Students also report increases in self-confidence and ability to navigate complex situations.”

The rankings highlight the top 40 doctorate-granting universities. The participation rate is determined by considering the number of domestic undergraduate students studying abroad and the number of bachelor’s degrees awarded to domestic students.

This Open Doors ranking recognizes DU’s commitment to internationalizing student worldviews through the creation of the Cherrington Global Scholars program.

“Study abroad and student mobility are some of the best ways to promote international understanding and global diplomacy,” Cope says. “In a world of uncertainty, there is a knee-jerk response to turn inward. I am proud that DU resists this urge and continues to ensure that DU students have a broader perspective.”

The United Kingdom, Spain and Italy are the top destinations for DU students. Spain’s Nebrija University, New Zealand’s University of Otago and the University of Glasgow in Scotland receive a large number of DU students. Sweden's Lund University and the University of Western Australia, both of which are strategic partners with DU, are also popular and important destinations for DU students.

The Office of Internationalization includes four main units. The Office of International Education offers advising and support for undergraduate study abroad at more than 150 DU partner programs around the world. The Office of International Student and Scholar Services provides orientation for international students and immigration advising. The English Language Center prepares international students for success in English-speaking classes. And the Center for World Languages and Cultures enhances students’ knowledge of languages and cultures.