Colgate University’s study abroad program has ranked first in the annual Institute for International Education Open Doors Survey of international semester-long travel at undergraduate institutions. This year’s survey was based on data from 2023–24, when 441 domestic Colgate students studied abroad.
“Students pursue semester-length study abroad to further their understanding of themselves and the world, and to shape their perspectives about their disciplines,” said Joanna Holvey Bowles, Director of Off-Campus Study. “Students and alumni routinely tell us about the impact international programs have on them — the friendships they forge, the independence they develop, and the mentorship they experience with faculty.”
Developing a global and ethical foundation is a core component of the University’s liberal arts experience, with faculty-led off-campus programs linked to the curriculum. Colgate offers a range of study programs across the world, from Wollongong, Australia, to Cape Town, South Africa. Some study groups, like the Geneva, Switzerland program, offer students the opportunity to intern at nongovernmental organizations or even the United Nations.
“The Geneva study group was not only an integral opportunity to study the subjects I’m passionate for in a beautiful setting, it has also provided me invaluable work experience for my career.” says Chris Johnson ’26, a political science major with a minor in economics. “Being interested in law and politics, the ability to work for the UNHCR taught me how the nonprofit international world functions in today’s ever-changing society.”
Many study groups are associated with a specific major. For example, the St. Andrews, Scotland, group is affiliated with the philosophy and religion departments, but students from any department can apply to join. This allows them to explore disciplines and learn interdisciplinary skills needed for success after graduation.
Nhu Dang ’26, a double major in political science and history, studied abroad in London, England, through the history department’s study group. The students in this program pursue original historical research, with access to some of the world’s best archives and libraries.
“Being abroad with London’s history group changed my entire perspective on Colgate,” Dang explained. “Not only was I able to complete my history thesis a year early, but being in London reaffirmed my desire to be in a big city post-grad. I loved traveling for archival research while also experiencing new cultures I did not have at home or at Colgate. It was an experience I have been genuinely grateful to have had as a result of Colgate.”