More students are choosing to study an international degree
The number of students choosing to study an international degree has dramatically increased. Industry experts expect this trend to continue.
Academic heads at some of the world’s leading universities see a growing demand for internationally accredited degrees. Due to ongoing financial hardship in many countries and the greater need for global communication skills, they expect more students to be looking abroad for their education.
“There is currently a very high demand for international education and this will continue,” explains Dr Jacques Kaat, academic director at Webster University in the Netherlands. “The world is getting smaller and students want to boost their employability by experiencing different cultures.”
Dual versus joint degrees
A dual degree is a qualification offered by two or more universities, commonly at a masters or postgraduate level. The student receives a certificate from each of the institutions involved. A joint degree means the student receives only one certificate from all the partner universities.
International degrees are becoming more and more popular. A report from the Institute of International Education, developed among 245 higher education institutions in 28 countries, supports this idea.
In 2011, double degree programs appeared to be more common than joint programs. 84% of responding institutions offer double degree programs, while only 33% offer joint degree programs.
Universities meet the demand with new programs
According to the report, 95% of institutions report that double and/or joint programs are an essential part of their internationalization strategy for the future.
Advantages of an international degree for students
Universities with international programs proclaim a range of advantages for their students. “Studying an international degree allows you to become a global citizen”, says Dr Kaat. “And if you’re a global citizen, the world is your oyster.
“Students choose an international degree because it includes immersion in another culture,” says Dr Kaat. “If you want to be global, you have to go global.”
Professor John Fenby, Dean and Director of Partner Schools at IMI-Luzern, agrees: “An international degree gives students cross-cultural awareness, it broadens their horizons.”