International Profile
Structure of International Programs
By design, the University of Minnesota is a highly decentralized institution. For this reason, colleges and campuses make the majority of their own administrative decisions, resulting in multiple efforts toward internationalization occurring simultaneously. The Office of International Programs operates systemwide as a branch of the University’s central administration, but numerous activities in every college and campus are happening independent of central administration.
Office of International Programs
The Office of International Programs is the central, coordinating international office for the University of Minnesota system. The associate vice president and dean’s office focuses on international services to faculty on all campuses, funding information for graduate study and research abroad, administration of several scholarships, system-wide international policies and initiatives, and a significant new program to increase the international scholarly initiatives of faculty, colleges, and graduate students.. OIP includes the following four offices:
Center for Advanced Research on Language Acquisition: As one of 15 National Language Resource Centers, CARLA coordinates several programs of research, training, development, and dissemination of information related to second language teaching, learning, and assessment.
The China Center builds bridges between the U.S. and Greater China by facilitating educational exchange; fostering an understanding of history, cultures, and value; serving as a catalyst and resource for the promotion of economic, governmental, and civic pursuits; and increasing mutual interest and understanding.
International Student and Scholar Services serves international students and scholars by providing advising, counseling, government document preparation, and intercultural programs. The office also offers educational programs and runs an Intercultural Training Center.
The Learning Abroad Center is the University’s office for international study, service-learning, work, intern, volunteer, and travel opportunities. The center also provides travel information and services for the entire University community, including passport photos, railpasses, and insurance.