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Study Abroad

A study abroad experience is an important part of the Stamps curriculum.


Undergraduate Study Abroad

When aspiring artists and designers are given the opportunity to step out of a familiar environment and observe another culture, where the role and status assigned to artists and designers may be radically different than the U.S., it fosters creative insights, encourages independence, and prepares students to negotiate difference and adapt to unfamiliar situations. The changed perspective gained through this process of observing, adapting, and adjusting makes students better global citizens and more competitive for employment, fellowships, and graduate school.

Studying abroad with programs approved by the Stamps School of Art & Design International Experience prepares students to thrive in culturally diverse settings as they bring their design and art practices into the world. The objectives for these study abroad experiences are to:

    • Challenge students to experience their art and design practices in new cultures
    • Facilitate development of personal and professional connections with designers and artists from diverse cultures
    • Increase student interest in and ability to negotiate diverse cultures
    • Increase student independence and adaptability

    Stamps pre-approved study abroad program locations include Costa Rica, Denmark, France, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the U.K., and more. Students may study abroad after matriculation at U‑M, but not during the first year at Stamps or during the Sopho­more Review semester.


    Visit the Stamps Study Abroad Intranet site (access restricted to current students) for detailed information on partner programs and resources to help you prepare for your time abroad.

    Stamps Study Abroad Intranet site

    Graduate International Experience

    Summer field research is a vital component of the MFA program, and Stamps supports a 3‑credit, three- to five-week international or domestic project for all graduate students in good academic standing. Emphasis is placed on working internationally, and students are strongly encouraged to seek projects abroad. Crossing political and cultural boundaries to immerse oneself in other ways of perceiving and interpreting the world generates global perspective, new life experiences and creative insights. The experience will yield heightened self-awareness, increased knowledge and access to new networks that will strengthen the student’s subsequent opportunities, including invitations to serve as resident artists, participate in exhibitions or other kinds of collaborations, provide opportunities for applications for Fulbright fellowships and other post-graduate funding opportunities.

    International News & Stories

    Learn about the Stamps study abroad and international experiences in these articles.