Center for International Studies and Programs
Contact information:
Location: CAS-121
908-737-0350
www.keaninternational.com
cis@kean.edu
The Center for International Studies (CIS) coordinates the activities of Kean University faculty, staff, and students that integrate international education into the University. Through its two divisions, the Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS) and the Education Abroad Office, CIS administers agreements for academic partnerships with foreign universities, supports study abroad, organizes Travelearn opportunities, and supports international students, scholars, and exchange visitors at Kean.
A major aim of CIS is to develop and administer agreements for academic partnerships with universities in other countries to promote mutual understanding. Kean currently maintains strong relationships with universities, colleges, and research institutions in Europe, South and Central America, Africa, the Middle East, and throughout Asia. Kean continues to develop collaborative relationships with institutions and universities around the world.
The Center’s Education Abroad Office is responsible for the coordination of activities such as study abroad and Travelearn. Eligible matriculated students are encouraged to study abroad in over one hundred top universities in over 50 countries, allowing them to grow intellectually, develop intercultural communication skills, and improve foreign language skills. Students enroll in a full course of study and are eligible to apply these credits to meet Kean University degree requirements. Participants are also eligible to apply for financial assistance toward program costs. Application deadlines for spring semester study abroad are typically in mid-October of the preceding fall semester; application deadlines for summer and fall semester study abroad are typically in mid-March of the preceding spring semester. Travelearn programs offer participants the opportunity to combine academic study with short-term travel to sites and facilities overseas. The experience is enriched by lectures, readings, and other activities designed to provide student and non-student participants a broader and deeper appreciation of travel. Faculty coordinators are specialists in the fields of study related to each program and are acquainted with the cultural opportunities presented by the countries.
CIS also houses the Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS). The ISS provides international students with a wide range of programs and opportunities at Kean. International students are warmly welcomed at Kean and are integrated into the Kean Community during their stay in the United States. ISS is structured to assist foreign students in making successful transitions to Kean and life in the United States. International students confront unique requirements, and ISS helps guide and advise students through the proper procedures required to remain in good standing with immigration and to maintain their status in the US. Additionally, ISS conducts orientations, helps with registration, practical training, reinstatement procedures, and academic issues while on campus. In addition, ISS provides services for visiting scholars and faculty from around the world. Whether visiting for a short-term or conducting research or teaching at Kean, the ISS is here to support the needs of our foreign visitors.
By coordinating academic partnerships, study abroad, Travelearn, and activities of foreign students and scholars, the Center for International Studies seeks to synchronize the academic and extracurricular international activities that enable Kean faculty, staff, and students to gain global and cross-cultural understanding. Ultimately, it is hoped that our efforts will generate a diverse group of alumni and others who will have a significant international experience and become better citizens, diplomats, ambassadors, policy makers, area specialists, and activists promoting a better world.