About Us


The mission of the School of Graduate, International, and Interdisciplinary Studies (GIIS) is to enrich the University community by providing students opportunities for graduate education, studying across disciplinary boundaries, gaining “real world” experience, and internationalizing the campus. Graduate, international, interdisciplinary, and experiential programs are a vital part of the University. They add depth and diversity to the Chico State educational experience, promote the linkage of teaching and research, serve the needs of the North State’s agencies, schools, and businesses, and facilitate civic engagement and the development of a global perspective among the University’s students and faculty, preparing them for success in the increasingly interconnected world of the 21st century.


The School of GIIS carries out its mission by:


• Offering quality post-baccalaureate programs that prepare students for demanding professional careers or for doctoral programs. The school’s professional staff provide services that promote graduate student success from admission to graduation.


• Internationalizing the University through:


– Recruitment, admission, and retention of high-quality international students from around the globe, which provides valuable diversity to the campus community.

– A vibrant study abroad program, offering Chico State students the opportunity to increase their international competence.

– International training programs that bring professionals from around the world to Chico for short-term advanced training and hands-on experience with American institutions.

• Offering quality interdisciplinary graduate and undergraduate programs that allow students to learn across disciplinary boundaries—increasingly important in today’s fast-changing and complex world.


• Supporting and advancing the University's commitment to diversity, both through international programs and through the Multicultural and Gender Studies Program.


• Encouraging student engagement through experiential learning.


We welcome your participation in the activities of the School of Graduate, International, and Interdisciplinary Studies. Thank you for your interest.


Dr. Susan E. Place, Dean