Travel and Study Abroad
International travel provides transformative life experiences. From performance tours, to collaborations with teachers, artists, and other students, to semester-long study abroad, students advance professional and life skills while also jump-starting their burgeoning careers.
Study Abroad Overview
The SMTD international education opportunities allow students to enroll at an institution abroad for a semester, summer, short-term program, or a full academic year, with the possibility of earning academic and/or performance credits toward an SMTD degree program. Any SMTD undergraduate (non-first year) or graduate student in good academic standing (3.0 minimum GPA) who wishes to pursue relevant studies offered by another institution or program and desires an outstanding opportunity for cultural immersion and intensive language study is encouraged to apply.
In the past, SMTD students have spent a semester or an academic year abroad in international study exchange programs at partner institutions, such as the Conservatoire de Paris in France, Zurich University of the Arts in Switzerland, Hannover University of Music, and Hochschule für Musik in Germany.
SMTD provides multiple pathways for students to gain international experience. Whether you want to study abroad for a semester, participate in a short-term program, or join an SMTD faculty-led experience, you can choose an option that aligns with your academic goals, schedule, and interests.
Before applying for any study abroad program, students should consult with their studio instructor/advisor and the SMTD Office of Academic and Student Affairs to discuss how an international study experience can fit within their academic plan, including the transfer of credits and program requirements without interfering with recital plans or ensemble obligations.
For those pursuing a dual degree, it is necessary to consult with advisors of both programs to ensure degree requirements remain on track. The studio instructor/advisor can help determine the best time to go abroad as well as help identify coursework and potential performance teachers (for performance majors).
Once admitted to a study abroad program, students are encouraged to work with the SMTD Global Engagement Office to complete university requirements related to international travel, risk management, and compliance. U-M Students should also consult the Study & Research Abroad resource document, prepared by the SMTD Global Engagement Office, for guidance and information to support their preparation for an international experience.
Direct Enrollment at an Institution Abroad
Students interested in studying abroad have the option to participate in programs offered through the SMTD’s established exchange agreements with partner institutions or to apply directly to non-partner universities. This option provides a high level of academic and cultural immersion and is ideal for students seeking an independent international experience. Depending on the institution, an exchange agreement between the University of Michigan and the host institution may be required.
Contact the SMTD Global Engagement Office and the Office of Academic and Student Affairs for information about current exchange agreements and partner institutions.
University of Michigan & Third-Party Provider Programs
Students can choose from a wide range of programs offered through U-M, other US universities, or approved third-party providers. These programs offer structured support, diverse destinations, and flexible program lengths, including summer, short-term, and semester-long opportunities. The focus of these programs can range from broad, intensive immersion in language, history, and culture to more specialized academic coursework. Some third-party providers offer courses specifically focused on music, dance, theatre, and other discipline-specific areas.
M-Compass is the U-M hub for study abroad programs. Students may search and apply for programs through the website. Many programs are administered by the U-M Center for Global and Intercultural Study (CGIS). M-Compass is also the portal through which students complete their required registration for all University-related international experiences.
University of Michigan Study Abroad Resources
Non-UM Study Abroad Resources
Students interested in participating in non-UM Study Abroad opportunities should contact OASA (Ben Thauland, [email protected], Associate Director of Academic and Student Affairs) before enrolling in the program to consider all factors when looking for a non-UM study abroad program and ensure that their intended course selections will transfer to SMTD.
Non-UM Third-Party Programs
Faculty-Led Programs
Faculty-led programs are developed and led by SMTD faculty and combine academic coursework with international travel. These short-term programs provide a structured learning experience, close faculty mentorship, and the opportunity to travel and learn as part of a cohort of fellow students. Faculty-led programs may be offered as one-time experiences or as recurring programs, depending on faculty interest, academic priorities, and available resources. Please note that faculty-led programs are not available in every department, and offerings vary from year to year.
Information about available faculty-led programs, including program requirements, eligibility, application procedures, and deadlines, can be found on the SMTD M-Compass page. Faculty also share program information directly with their students and cohorts as opportunities become available.
Current Faculty-Led Study Abroad Opportunities
Mysore, India
- Students spend four weeks engaging with artists and musicians, attending lectures on culture, history, religion, and aesthetics; receiving in-home one-on-one instruction in flute, drums, violin, voice, or dance; taking field trips to ancient sites, temples, and significant monuments of Mysore; and attending performances.
Seville, Spain
- Department of Dance collaboration with Marcat Dance to create an unforgettable education abroad experience in the historical, charming Seville, Spain.
Travel Stories
Study Abroad Contacts
Contact the Office of Global Engagement:
[email protected]
734-936-1915
- Christi-Anne Castro, Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Global Engagement
- Naira Tumanyan, Program Manager for Faculty Development and Global Engagement