Globalizing the curriculum at Dickinson State University: Dual-Degree and International Internship Programs at the Department of Agriculture and Technical Studies

Abstract

 

Globalizing the undergraduate curriculum is increasingly important for Dickinson State University students who are seeking the opportunity to understand different culture, improve language skills, and learn more about international markets and international communities.

 For the last couple of years, the issues of globalization and multicultural diversity have gained increasing attention in higher education as well as at DSU and the Department of Agriculture and Technical Studies in particular. As a result we established new relationships with China, England, Russia, Japan, Mexico and Kazakhstan. Two of the partnerships with Chinese and Russian institutions are particularly remarkable. In 2002, a dual degree program with 15 Chinese universities was developed. This program allows Chinese students who have completed one or two years of study at a participating Chinese university to attend Dickinson State University for a summer, two consecutive semesters and a concluding summer session and obtain two diplomas from the United States and Chinese higher education institutions.