Big Ten universities reported the highest number of students in Learning Abroad programs in five years

One of the most comprehensive analysis of Learning Abroad strategies in the United States shows growth among members of the Big Ten Academic Alliance in the number of students who participated in Learning Abroad Programs during Fall 2015 through Summer 2016.

The Big Ten International Learning Mobility Benchmark was established in May 2012 with the objective of developing a yearly report that contains detailed information about the international mobility strategies executed by the Big Ten Academic Alliance institutional members. The analysis was developed by Studymove Education Consultants with the support of thirteen members of the Big Ten Academic Alliance. 

These thirteen Big Ten universities reported that during Fall 2015 through Summer 2016 a total of 35,332 students participated in Learning Abroad Programs which is the highest number of students reported in five years.  This figure includes U.S. citizens and international students from all academic levels and credit and non-credit Learning Abroad Programs.

KEY FINDINGS

Student Participation

In the 2015-2016 academic year, thirteen participating member universities of the Big Ten Academic Alliance reported an aggregate of 35,332 student participants in Learning Abroad Programs. 

Participation Rate

23.2% was the average undergraduate participation rate for the reporting member universities and 24.4% based on the total number of degrees awarded.

Where are they going?

Europe was again the most popular region for learning abroad students taking a for-credit program between Fall 2015 and Summer 2016.

Credit status

In aggregate, twelve universities reported that 84% of students participating Learning Abroad programs obtained academic credit. 

Academic Level
Credit Programs
86% of students who received academic credit were bachelor degree students. 

Non-Credit Programs
52.4% of students in learning abroad non-credit programs were graduate students. 

MAJOR FIELD OF STUDY

Credit Programs

For More information: Big Ten International Learning Mobility Benchmark Executive Summary 2017