Students in Madrid

Overview of Program


Chico State is Proud to offer a wide range of programs for varying lengths of time:


Semester Programs (most may be extended to a year):


  • University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC)
  • Direct International Exchanges
  • London Semester

Yearlong Programs:


  • CSU International Programs (IP)

Summer/Intersession



University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC)


USAC is a non-profit organization based at the University of Nevada, Reno. USAC is a consortium of 32 American Universities (including CSU, Chico). USAC offers programs in 25 countries in over 37 different program sites. Programs are available for a summer, semester or entire year (two semesters). Students who go abroad on USAC will receive CSU resident credit at Chico for all coursework taken abroad. The USAC Central Office and consortium staff work with Resident Directors and Program Coordinators overseas to ensure each student receives personalized care and attention. (http://usac.unr.edu)


International Program (IP)


IP is the system wide study abroad program of the CSU. IP is affiliated with over 50 distinguished universities and other institutions of higher education in 19 countries where you can pursue coursework for CSU resident credit. The academic excellence of IP has been recognized by respected organizations such as the Council on Learning and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. IP provides international academic opportunities in the framework of a California State University degree program. With a focus on academic year studies, IP offers an array of study options related to specific degree and career objectives. (http://www.calstate.edu/ip/)


Direct International Exchanges


Direct Exchanges are programs that are run directly through the Study Abroad Office at Chico State. For each of the students that we send abroad on one of our Direct Exchanges, we also receive a student from the host institution. Students who go abroad on these programs are expected to be much more independent, self-sufficient and autonomous. Students should expect to have a complete cultural immersion while on this program (See individual pamphlets for more information). More information is available on the Direct International Exchange page.


Faculty Led Programs


Faculty-led programs are sometimes referred to as "island programs." Chico State professors will take a group of Chico State students abroad where they will receive credit for a specific Chico State Course. They are usually held during the summer or January Intersession. More information is available on the Faculty Led Programs page.