Blurring borders and boundaries, the University of San Diego is uniquely positioned to give students a broader view of the world — both from campus and beyond. Our location at the edge of an international gateway uniquely prepares students to embrace the breadth and depth of discovering ways to become a globally competent citizen.
Explore the World
USD has been ranked among the top five schools in the nation for the past five years for the percentage of undergraduates participating in a study-abroad program. In 2015, the university earned the prestigious Senator Paul Simon Award for Campus Internationalization, which "recognizes U.S. colleges and universities that are making significant, well-planned, well executed and well documented progress toward comprehensive internationalization."
USD's graduate and professional programs also offer extensive international opportunities for working professionals as well as full-time graduate students.
Throughout the university, no matter the major of study or the degree pursued, global themes permeate the curriculum. All undergraduate students are required to have a minimum competency of three semesters of a foreign language to enhance their cultural understanding of others. USD offers courses in nine languages, as well as programs such as Asian, Italian and Latin American studies.
Our campus community is enriched by including students and scholars from more than 90 countries.
135
academic study abroad programs
44
countries
76
cities
A Cornerstone of the USD Educational Experience
The University of San Diego's study abroad program provides students with an educational experience that encourages awareness and global citizenship.
International Center
At USD, we develop global changemakers and forge paths that change the world by supporting our community to advance global citizenship. In 2015 USD received the Senator Paul Simon Award for Comprehensive Internationalization, awarded by the NAFSA (Association of International Educators). For undergraduate students, there are approximately 135 academic study abroad programs offered in 44 countries and 76 cities to experience and learn about different cultures, languages and customs.
Madrid Center
USD's first, permanent international location. the center annually hosts more than 100 undergraduate students taking a wide variety of courses including a unique, multi-city seminar through Spain. the Center also hosts graduate programs from USD's School of Leadership and Education Sciences and the USD Knauss School of Business. The USD Madrid Center serves as hub to connect with our European partners and alumni.
Find Your Path
Our students have the opportunity to live and study in dozens of countries for a year, semester, summer or intersession while earning USD credit offered in over 80 different programs