International Joint & Double Degree Programs: The U.S. Perspective

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1 International Joint & Double Degree Programs: The U.S. Perspective JDAZ Seminar (Working Group 3) January 28, 2014 Clare Banks Assistant Director, International Partnerships & IIE Initiatives Institute of International Education (IIE)

2 Key Trends in U.S. Joint and Double Degree Programs Dual/Double degrees far more common than Joint degrees U.S. programs mostly at the undergraduate level Motivations Advancing internationalization of the campus Raising international visibility/prestige Increasing foreign student enrolment Strengthening academic research collaborations Increasing revenue Top Disciplines in line with global trends (Business & Management, Engineering, Social Sciences) Fewer two-way models; more examples of international students coming to U.S. campuses Anecdotal evidence to suggest that accreditation is becoming easier

3 A Few Examples State University of New York System & 9 Turkish Universities Turkish students 27 programs since , 1+2+1, alternating I was offered jobs from some of best companies in Turkey and immediately began to work after graduating. My salary is above the average salaries in Turkey, and this salary will improve as I qualify for higher positions. SUNY DD Graduate Virginia Tech & Technische Universität Darmstadt 2-year dual MS Mechanical Engineering degree program (2003) and dual BS program (final year at partner institution) 100% of graduates employed or have continued to more advanced studies Clemson University & Université Catholique de Louvain & Universiteit Maastricht TransAtlantic Exchange in Economics Double degree from Clemson and UCL Cohort model Juniata College & Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen- Bocholt (2003) Double BA in International Management 1 year at each partner Includes a thesis component for both U.S. and German students

4 Marketing/Recruitment Practices Who Mostly joint recruitment targeted at certain students (depending on discipline) Where possible a designated recruitment representative. When As early as possible, as permitted by the particular program. How Internet, websites, s, program homepages, brochures, flyers, traveling to partner countries, video conferences, posters, handouts, s, in-class presentations (eg. Targeting language classes, engineering, business etc) Where Classrooms, welcome sessions, high schools, international high schools, cultural institutes; sometimes more targeted at certain students. In some cases integrated into national exam process

5 Recognition and Rights of Students Accreditation is the most important aspect of ensuring recognition and rights of students upon graduating In U.S., accreditation granted by regional, national, and professional accrediting bodies. Joint degrees more challenging than double/dual degrees in terms of curriculum agreement and accreditation. Double degrees perhaps safer because you have a separate home degree. Explanation with degree for future employers/graduate programs

6 Employability and Internships Interviews suggest that the vast majority of graduates successfully move into further educational opportunities or employment. HEIs more attuned to global industry needs and trends Some challenges with industry recognition (eg. Specific name of major or in fitting in with existing process) Sometimes forcing students to only showcase their home degree. In U.S., Optional Practial Training (OPT) and Curricular Training at the end of the program (with the 29-month STEM extension also a possibility)

7 Best Practices Marketing & Recruitment Joint strategy with partner(s), but marketing tactics tailored to each audience Recognize the distinct/unique nature of a joint/double degree Cite links to industry early on and use alumni as recruitment resources Emphasize competitiveness of the program Recognition & Rights of Students Double degrees (two separate degrees) seem to be the most viable Work with necessary bodies to ensure proper accreditation Include a explanatory supplement with diploma for clarification Employability & Internship Schemes Provide career services for joint/double degree cohorts In U.S., utilize OPT by having international students in the U.S. for final year Where possible, develop program in collaboration with industry partner Understand HR practices and terminology