Are We Getting Them out of the Country? The State of Study Abroad Opportunities Within NASPAA Member Programs

Abstract

The pressures of globalization in the 21st century demand public affairs professionals with new competencies, among them the ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively across national boundaries and cultural differences. International immersion through study abroad has been demonstrated to be an effective means of enhancing global cultural competencies among undergraduate and graduate students in a variety of other professions, but has not previously been examined within the context of public administration or public policy specifically. This article examines the extent to which public affairs programs are providing students with study abroad opportunities. Drawing upon survey and interview data from representatives of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration’s member programs, the authors document the status and defining characteristics of study abroad programs in public affairs, identify challenges, and present a series of recommendations.

Keywords:

• Study abroad
• cultural competency
• international education
• global citizens

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Nadia Rubaii

Nadia Rubaii is associate professor of public administration in the College of Community and Public Affairs at Binghamton University, State University of New York. Her research examines issues of diversity with an emphasis on enhancing cultural competence in professional public service. Her research also examines the challenges of applying U. S.-based standards of educational quality in a comparative context with a particular focus on Latin America.

Susan Appe

Susan Appe is assistant professor of public administration at the College of Community and Public Affairs at Binghamton University, State University of New York. Her research centers on government-nonprofit relations, the evolution of the nonprofit sector in developed and developing countries, and the implications of international service learning in public affairs education.

Kerry Stamp

Kerry Stamp is assistant director for study abroad in the Office of International Programs at Binghamton University, State University of New York, where she is also a doctoral student of public affairs. Her research areas of interest include diversity and inclusion in study abroad, and global service learning.