The Global Engagement and Interdisciplinary Education was established as a Statewide Center for Excellence in International Education by the Board of Governors for Higher Education in 1987. Building the international dimension of Central is the overall objective of GEIE with a profound commitment to global education. This commitment is met by bringing together faculty, staff, and students throughout the university, and people outside the campus and beyond, who are interested in the teaching, research, and exchange of ideas about the world. GEIE works closely with units across campus to internationalize educational programs, research, and training opportunities; and to promote collaborative agreements and faculty exchanges with foreign institutions. GEIE comprises three main units: International Student and Scholar Services, Intensive English Language Program and Study/Course Abroad.
Study Abroad (SA)
The SA unit assists Central students who wish to study and live abroad to gain valuable educational and first-hand experiences with foreign languages and cultures. SA includes three categories of programs: “Semester” (to year-long) programs, “Summer” programs, and “Courses Abroad” programs. The Semester (to a yearlong) programs are available to students through a network of university partnerships around the world. “Courses Abroad” are intense, credit-bearing University classes taught by faculty, include courses at the undergraduate and graduate level, and offer for credit in many majors and in all regions of the world.
International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS)
Central’s commitment to diversity would be most incomplete without the presence of international students and scholars on campus. The presence of international students and scholars on the Central campus enriches the educational environment for all. ISSS advises and supports international scholars, exchange students, degree-seeking students, as well as students who come to Central to learn English in the Intensive English Language Program (IELP). ISSS is also instrumental in creating a supportive environment that attracts and retains international students and scholars—an important component in Central’s commitment to diversity.
Intensive English Language Program (IELP)
The mission of the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) is to provide English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction in American English and an introduction to American culture. IELP serves international students, non-native speakers of English residing in the U.S., faculty members from abroad, and foreign professionals. Specifically, IELP offers English for Academic Purposes (EAP) to individuals who are seeking enrollment into American universities and facilitates the transition of these students into mainstream academic courses.
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