For the fourth time in the last five years, the Institute of International Education has named the University of St. Thomas as one of the top 20 master’s schools in the United States for study abroad programs. This year, UST ranked 16th out of 169 participating master’s institutions.

Over the past decade, the University of St. Thomas has sent from 7-10 percent of its undergraduate students abroad each year in stark contrast to the national average of 2-3 percent. The 2008 Open Doors Report ranks universities’ participation rates by comparing the number of students studying abroad to the number of degrees granted in a given year.  For academic year 2006-2007, UST's participation rate was 44.8 percent.

“The survey results continue to show that we can compete with the elite schools in the area of study abroad,” said Dr. Hans Stockton, UST study abroad director and international studies associate professor. “In fact, we are one of the nation’s elite schools for study abroad. In relation to our mission of shaping leaders of faith and character, studies abroad give our students greater global exposure, expand their world view, and expose our students to the challenges and opportunities that they, as global leaders, will face in such a diverse world.”

Stockton said that while IIE only ranks undergraduate participation, it is important to note that UST also offers a vibrant study abroad program for graduate students. Read more about how a group of UST MBA students learned about outsourcing in India.

UST students have moved beyond the confines of the classroom to study in countries spanning the globe. This is done through UST's group programs abroad or through individual semesters abroad. UST sent a record number of students abroad for semester-long studies this past year. Individuals and UST groups have studied throughout the Americas, British Isles, Europe, and Asia.  This winter, groups will be taught in Lima, London, and Taipei.  In the coming summer, group programs will be conducted in France, Jamaica, Ireland, Mexico, and Singapore.

Where do you want to go?  Please contact Study Abroad at 713-525-3530 or e-mail garciad@stthom.edu for more information