Northern Illinois University
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Our mission is to further the internationalization of our campus. We work toward this by promoting global education, international academic partnerships, training and cross-cultural understanding. Through a variety of programs and collaborations, we provide NIU students, faculty and staff with opportunities to develop skills needed to thrive in an interconnected world.

International engagement is central to the college's identity. Many of our departments and centers have international ties. Our Center for Southeast Asian Studies, established in 1963, grew out of one of the first Peace Corps training programs for Southeast Asia volunteers. Its strong history and large network of alumni and partners provide a solid foundation for ongoing global outreach.

For more information, contact Eric Jones, executive director of CLAS global initiatives, at eajones@niu.edu.

International Academic Partnerships and Centers

At the heart of our work are academic partnerships with institutions of higher learning around the world. These partnerships allow us to share resources, expertise and research opportunities, enhancing the experience of all involved. By working with an array of global institutions, including MOUs, we're able to offer unique programs that enrich students' understanding of different cultures, languages and perspectives.

International Exchanges and Study Abroad

We collaborate with the Division of International Affairs to facilitate the college's participation in a range of study abroad and exchange opportunities. NIU programs span the globe and cover many academic areas, enabling students to immerse themselves in new cultures while pursuing educational goals. Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, and we're dedicated to helping students find programs that suit their interests and needs.

International Training Programs

We design and host prominent international training programs involving foreign governments, academic partners and industry.