NSE Handbook

2.1 For the Institution

National Student Exchange provides options to diversify institutional programming at minimal cost to the member college and university. Membership benefits include enrichment, supplemental academic programs, joint programs, multicultural experiences, and enhancement of recruitment and retention. Additionally, special session, expanded study abroad, field experience, internships, honors access, and alternatives to international programs are available.

2.1.1 Enrichment, Supplement, and Complement of Academic Courses and Programs

Through NSE membership, a college or university can expand the scope and variety of educational offerings available to its students at minimal additional cost to both the institution and the student. Campuses can also help students take advantage of courses, concentrations, programs, fields of study, or other academic options not offered by their home institution.

2.1.2 Joint Academic Programming

National Student Exchange offers the potential for developing joint programs between two institutions. Campuses can combine departmental strengths to develop a program which allows students to expand the depth and breadth of their education. NSE facilitates and encourages this activity as it is not always practical to add courses or programs to current institutional offerings.

2.1.3 Multicultural Experiences

National Student Exchange membership includes diverse colleges and universities that offer distinct cultural experiences. By exchanging to institutions different than their own, students have an opportunity to gain insight into the historical and cultural makeup of different regions of the country and improve interaction skills with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Collegiate study away offers an opportunity for students to make the most of their education and prepare themselves to live and work in a culturally diverse society.

2.1.4 Enhancement of Recruitment and Retention Efforts

National Student Exchange provides member institutions a competitive edge in recruitment and retention efforts. Students find accessible, affordable opportunities attending a college outside of their home state with educational costs similar to staying at home. Often, students who might be contemplating transfer or stopping out of college will participate in the National Student Exchange to satisfy their interest in going elsewhere. Exchange students usually return to the home campus inspired and ready to fulfill their graduation requirements.

2.1.5 Special Exchange Options

Summer exchange, inter-term exchange, and research opportunities are available at a variety of NSE member institutions.

2.1.5.1 Study Abroad Programs

The NSE network provides access to international and study abroad programs administered by member campuses. Institutions may expand international options for their students at a lower cost than required to develop and maintain their own study abroad programs.

2.1.5.2 Field Experience and Internships

NSE member campuses may offer their field experience, off­campus study, and internship options to incoming exchange students.

2.1.5.3 Honors Access

Many NSE member colleges and universities encourage and facilitate exchange of honors students. This allows offering more courses, options, and challenges to high achieving students.

2.1.5.4 Alternative to International Programs

Many students find limitations for study in international settings due to language proficiency, financial resources, or the availability of comparable academic programs. National Student Exchange offers diverse study away experiences at a cost comparable to attending the home campus. Regional accreditation assist with course transferability.

2.2 For Students

Students participate in the exchange program for academic diversification, cultural awareness, personal growth and development, exploration of graduate school, career opportunities, and affordable travel.

2.2.1 Academic Diversification

NSE is an opportunity for students to take advantage of educational opportunities not available at the home campus. New faculty, specialized courses, and subfields within a chosen major can reinforce commitment to student goals and objectives.

2.2.2 Cultural Awareness

Students on exchange experience a new region, population, and customs while continuing to work toward their degree. Exposure to diverse ethnic and cultural communities of a new campus or city offer learning experiences which help widen personal and academic horizons.

2.2.3 Personal Growth and Development

Participation in National Student Exchange fosters student growth and development. Students benefit from increased independence and responsibility and frequently return from exchange with improved self-confidence and decision-making skills.

2.2.4 Travel and Exploration

Students use their exchange experience to travel and explore a new location. Additionally, the opportunity to investigate career opportunities, graduate, and professional schools helps students focus on practical application of the degree program.