CIIS: New Off-Campus Study Programs
The Center for International and Intercultural Studies (CIIS) is continuously providing opportunities for Laurentians to build personal, academic and professional skills across the globe. Here, we will take a closer look at three new partner programs where SLU students are currently studying.
Based in Bengaluru, the India (USAC) program allows students to enroll in interdisciplinary coursework, complete a four-week internship, and connect with local students at Christ University for an immersive cultural and academic experience. Participating students can expect to learn about India’s vibrant history and how this has shaped its current culture and economy. As the world’s largest democracy with a rapidly growing economy, the highly populated country still faces various challenges in inequality and poverty, which require multifaceted solutions. This is an excellent opportunity for those interested in public health, media, social justice and international relations. There is also an opportunity for a hands-on documentary filmmaking course. This program is also eligible for the Off-Campus Innovator Award; $250 will be credited to students who apply and are accepted in the 2026-27 academic year.
If learning a new language in a breathtaking mecca of European history and culture piques your interest, then the fall or spring semester at Marburg University in Germany might be for you. This program begins with a German language and German culture/context course before students will enroll directly into the university in English- or German-taught electives. These electives include physics, mathematics, government, history, business and many other subjects. Students will live on campus with German and international peers and are encouraged to participate in local community-based co-curriculars like musical ensembles, fitness classes and environmental advocacy. Easy access to public transportation (including a free student pass to all German trains and buses) facilitates quick travel from the Black Forest of Grimm’s Fairy Tales to bustling cities like Berlin and Munich.
With a vibrant international student body, Maastricht University is based in the picturesque Netherlands. Bordering Belgium, France, Luxembourg and Germany, the Netherlands has a uniquely diverse cultural influence. Students can choose from five academic tracks: Business and Economics in Europe, Humanities and Social Science in Europe, Politics, Law and International Relations in Europe, Psychology and Neuroscience in Europe, and Public Health and Medicine in Europe. There are also over 400 electives taught in English across the university’s course catalog. The Netherlands is notably bike-friendly, enabling students to travel the countryside and explore the tulip fields. The university itself provides numerous opportunities for cultural engagement, hosting debates, film and art festivals and athletic outlets.
For even more details about these amazing new program offerings, check out the Off-Campus Study Fair on Oct. 9 or attend an Off-Campus Study 101 session every Friday at 2 p.m. in Carnegie 105. The general deadline for off-campus study for the Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 is Feb. 1 at 11:59 p.m